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Arts panel clears Total Wireless signs, defers decision on large awning
Summary
The New Rochelle Municipal Arts Commission approved two flat-panel signs for a new Total Wireless store but deferred a decision on two large, brand‑colored awnings pending revised designs, fabric samples and renderings after members said the proposed color and projection would overwhelm the corner.
The New Rochelle Municipal Arts Commission approved two storefront signs for a Total Wireless location at 519B Main Street on the condition that the applicant resubmit awning designs, but the board deferred a decision on the proposed full‑wrap awnings after extended debate over color, size and pedestrian sightlines.
Bayezid Choudhury, the applicant for Total Wireless, told the board the awnings would match the franchise’s brand and help employees talk to passersby in inclement weather. "I paid a down payment to the contractor," he said, and argued that "having an awning helps with that, given that if it does rain, they have an opportunity to talk to people while they're outside."
Board members questioned whether the proposed red/orange color and the awnings’ 28‑inch projection would be visually dominant on the corner. Chairperson Marissa Bowen said she was concerned a vote that night could fail, noting, "There's only 4 board members here tonight, and I'm getting a feel that if we vote, it might not go your way." Several members recommended alternatives: a smaller box‑style awning that trims the unsightly frame, a neutral or black awning, placing an awning only on the Main Street side, or using lighting and a narrow trim rather than a full projecting awning.
After discussion the commission directed staff and the applicant to proceed with the two signs while the long‑form awning application was tabled. The board asked the applicant to return with fabric swatches, color samples and one or more renderings — including a smaller projection or a narrow 'box' awning — and to coordinate design options with the neighboring business. Staff said the applicant could reapply with revised options; the signs may proceed based on the board’s direction.
The action preserves the board’s immediate goal of improving storefront visibility while reserving judgment on a large, highly visible awning that several commissioners said could detract from the downtown streetscape. The applicant and staff said they would follow up with the commission and neighboring businesses before a future hearing.
What happens next: the applicant will provide fabric samples and alternative renderings; the commission will review the revised awning proposal at a future meeting.
