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Planning Commission approves larger directional signs for Advocate outpatient center to aid patient wayfinding
Summary
The commission unanimously recommended variances to increase directional sign height and area for Advocate Health’s new outpatient facility at 639 Blackhawk, citing patient visibility and safety (particularly for older patients); one entry‑facing directional sign and two internal wayfinding signs were described.
Advocate Health requested variances to the B‑2 District directional‑sign size limits for its new outpatient center at 639 Blackhawk Drive. The commission voted 5–0 to recommend approval of larger directional signs intended to aid visibility and circulation for patients and service vehicles.
Advocate representatives described a 42,000‑square‑foot outpatient facility under construction with roughly 215 surface parking spaces, diverse clinical services and an expected patient volume of more than 100 visits per day. The petitioner said 30–40 percent of patients are expected to be seniors, which informed the request for larger, higher‑mounted directional signs. Landscape architect Zach Reese explained B‑2 directional signs are limited by code to 5 sq ft and 3 ft in height; Advocate requested up to 9 sq ft per face and a maximum height of 6 ft 6 in for the directional signs to improve visibility from passenger vehicles and for older patients who have limited sightlines.
Staff noted directional signs are exempt from overall sign area totals but remain subject to height and area limits; the petitioner added that the Office Research district already allows larger directional signs in comparable nonresidential settings. Commissioners said the proposed sizes were reasonable for patient wayfinding and public safety and supported the request. The PCC recommended approval by unanimous roll call; the matter will go to the Village Board for final action.
