Planning commission approves Tokyo Central sign package at Bay Street shopping center

The Emeryville Planning Commission on Aug. 28 approved a major sign permit for Tokyo Central’s new grocery at 5603 Bay Street, part of the Bay Street shopping center.

Staff said the application requires a major sign permit because several signs exceed standard size or height limits: two wall signs of approximately 164 square feet mounted about 26–33 feet above grade, a smaller east‑facing wall sign at about 87 square feet, three double‑sided blade signs at roughly 27 square feet each mounted about 29 feet above ground, and a 30‑square‑foot awning sign above the parking garage entrance. Staff recommended approval, stating the signage complies with applicable standards and design guidelines. Standard conditions require illuminated signs to include dimmer switches so staff can require adjustments if light becomes a nuisance.

Commissioners questioned several details in the presentation. One commissioner asked whether the window film shown in the packet was part of the major sign approval; staff said it is not advertising and would be reviewed separately at a minor level. Commissioners also raised concerns about the blade sign at the northwest corner and whether its placement could further obscure a public viewshed from the South Bayfront Bridge. The applicant said the proposed heights and placements were chosen to preserve overall visual balance and visibility for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers, and defended the design as appropriate for building scale.

A commissioner suggested adding decorative patterns to the opaque film proposed on some storefront windows to improve streetfront appearance; the applicant and other commissioners supported the suggestion as a minor design improvement. No members of the public spoke during the hearing.

Commissioner Rivera moved approval of the permit and Commissioner Chafe seconded; the roll call vote was unanimous.