Historic board tables request for internally lit laundromat sign at 8 Garner Street

The Cohoes Historic Preservation and Architectural Review Board on July 21 tabled an application to replace a sign at 8 Garner Street after the applicant’s representative said the owner wanted an internally illuminated LED sign similar in size to the existing fixture.

Carly of AJ Signs, calling in for the owner, said the project would “install a sign similar in size to what exists at 8 Garner Street” and that the owner had named the laundromat for his daughter, Charlotte. Chair Daniele Cherniak told the caller that the board “generally do[es] not approve internally illuminated signs in the Historic District” and asked whether the applicant could provide a flat sign with external lighting or otherwise avoid internal illumination.

Carly said she would consult the client about external lighting options and whether existing bolts and wiring on the present bracket might explain why an internal light appears on photos. The board voted to table the application and asked the applicant to provide additional information to Sharon Butler, Commissioner of Building & Planning, before returning to the board for final review.

The board’s action was procedural: a motion to table was made by Member Tony Kusaywa, seconded by Member John Frainier, and carried unanimously. No final approval or permit was issued; the applicant must return with a revised lighting proposal and any clarifying documentation.