Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Signage Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Staff recommends variance to allow wall‑mounted electronic sign at Emancipation Highway site
Summary
City staff recommended that the Board of Zoning Appeals approve a variance allowing a wall‑mounted electronic variable message sign at 501 A Emancipation Highway, citing VDOT easements from the STARS Plan that prevent reinstallation of a freestanding sign; staff attached three conditions to any approval.
City staff told the Board of Zoning Appeals on Aug. 19, 2024, that it recommends approval of a variance to permit an electronic variable message sign mounted to the convenience store canopy at 501 A Emancipation Highway. The application was filed by James Slaymon of Triumph Signs on behalf of owner Agree Convenience No. 1 LLC.
Staff applied the required variance tests and concluded the request meets the standards for relief because the loss of the existing freestanding sign results from VDOT’s STARS Plan and related VDOT/City easements rather than any hardship created by the owner. Staff noted the existing sign was permitted in 2019 and that planned VDOT work requires removal of that freestanding sign; staff said VDOT and the City could reconsider freestanding placement after construction, currently estimated to be complete in June 2026.
Staff recommended approval with conditions. "Recommendation of approval with conditions: 1. The electronic variable message sign shall be in substantial conformance with the site plan GPM #50 and Canopy Pricer exhibits. 2. The electronic variable message sign shall be used consistently with the other requirements of City Code §72‑59.5.A, including but not limited to the restrictions on changes in display. 3. The electronic variable message sign shall be removed upon approval to construct any freestanding sign on the property," the staff report states.
The staff presentation included technical details about size and setbacks and stated the sign would face commercial property and meet other UDO standards. The transcript supplied to this report does not record a final Board vote or motion on the item; the record shows staff opened the item for questions but does not include a decision.
