Farmers Branch council reviews digital gateway sign options, asks staff for proposal on locations and phases

City staff presented vendor concepts for gateway and neighborhood entry monument signs on July 21 and recommended SSC Signs and Lighting based on design quality, turnkey installation and warranty coverage.

Senior Management Analyst Erin Flores told council that the vendor’s LED‑capable signs are suitable for major corridors while smaller, static signs would be recommended for neighborhood entryways. Staff presented a cost range—roughly $125,000 to $165,000 depending on specifications—and said LED modules have an expected service life of 7–10 years; the vendor offered a five‑year parts warranty and a 10‑year parts‑availability guarantee. Flores said the LED option includes software and an app so city staff can control messaging from the office or a mobile device and that training is included in the vendor price.

Council members debated cost, size and maintenance. Councilmember DeFranco said she preferred a simpler, evergreen design and raised concern about rising costs for staff relative to recent modest staff raises. Councilman Neal (district representation noted) asked whether neighborhood names could be incorporated; Flores said the vendor confirmed customization was possible and that smaller neighborhood units could be accommodated. Councilman Reid emphasized the public‑information value: “the LED screens on there… would be more beneficial than just something saying ‘here’s city hall,’” suggesting a mix of digital signs at strategic intersections and static signs in neighborhoods.

Direction to staff: council asked staff to return with suggested locations for digital messaging signs, a recommended number of LED units for major corridors and options for smaller neighborhood entry signs, with cost and phased implementation proposals.