Commission approves Beacon Square phasing change and new district identity sign allowance

The Plano Planning and Zoning Commission on Oct. 7 approved changes to the Urban Mixed Use 2 (UMU‑2) district for the Beacon Square development that accelerate retail construction and modify signage standards.

Staff senior planner Molly Coriel told the commission the applicant seeks to move Block B and B1 into phase 1 to allow additional retail earlier in the project and to amend sign rules to permit a cube-shaped district identity sign. Under the proposed text changes, only two faces of that cube would contain copy (lettering and logos), and a monument-sign area exception of up to 150 square feet would be allowed; monument signage area would be measured by overall height and width excluding the base.

Coriel said the request remains consistent with the comprehensive plan because the approved mix of uses and character-defining elements are unchanged. She also noted that one response was received during the notice period and it was in support.

Commissioners asked whether the illustrative cube sign would be internally illuminated; staff said the exhibit shows backlit copy consistent with Article 22 of the signage standards but that any lighting must conform to the city’s code and be reviewed by building inspections. Jason Lehigh, the applicant’s civil engineer, confirmed the sign would have a covered top to limit direct light spill.

Chair closed the public hearing after no commenter appeared to speak on this item. Commissioner Brunoff moved to approve the UMU‑2 phasing and signage amendments; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Carey and passed 6–0.

The amendments approved by the commission will take effect following whatever administrative and adoption steps are required by city procedures.