Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Signage topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board okays historic Anheuser-Busch roof sign at 900 Pestalozzi, contingent on cultural review
Summary
The Board of Adjustment approved an animated, illuminated roof sign proposed for the Anheuser-Busch complex at 900 Pestalozzi Street, finding historic and aesthetic value. Approval was made with a condition that the Cultural Resources Office be routed and approve the design in the permitting process.
Zoning plan examiner Andy Powers told the board that appeal 20640 seeks two area variances for a roof sign at 900 Pestalozzi Street: height above the parapet and animated illumination beyond code limits. Staff explained that signage is generally not covered in the strategic land use plan and that PDA made no finding of conformity; cultural-resources staff provided photos but did not recommend approval.
Joe Phillips of PYRO Signs described the sign as a restored historic piece removed from Newark, New Jersey, and said the design is double-sided and will "spin in a 360 degree motion" to be visible from multiple directions. He said lighting studies comparing the existing billboard on Interstate 40 showed Soulard already has significant lighting and that the sign's light profile would not materially increase ground‑level illumination inside Soulard.
Lewis Hamilton, a registered lobbyist representing Anheuser‑Busch, said the company had engaged neighborhood leaders and the alderwoman in preliminary review and support. Cultural-resources staff (Bob Bettis) said his office was not properly routed on the original permit but was present to advise the board that cultural review should be part of the process. The board approved the sign with a condition that the Cultural Resources Office be added to the permit route and that the project's cultural review be completed.
