8.1. PCSR 11-28-2023Request for Action
To Item Number
Planning Commission 8.1
Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by
Work Session November 28, 2023 Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
Item Description Reviewed by
Highway 169 Signage
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discuss business signage along Highway 169 post-construction.
Background/Discussion
On September 26, 2023, the Planning Commission discussed signage and a future ordinance amendment for
business signage along Highway 169. The conversation is a result of the highway construction and changes to
visibility and access.
The Commission reviewed signage from nearby communities and discussed options that could shape a future
amendment. Since that discussion, the Highway 169 corridor has opened back up for the winter and three of the
four interchanges are complete. The final elevation for the highway is complete along these sections and the
impacts on visibility can now be observed.
Staff ask each of the commissioners to drive the completed section of the corridor a few times and pay attention
to existing signage. What is visible and where, sign heights and visibility above barriers and overpasses, and
existing development signs. Many of the existing signs are still visible and function as they had in the past, but
some businesses have seen their sign visibility severely impacted.
The conversation should focus on creating a standard for evaluating future sign ordinances and PUD
amendments. A standard is more efficient for landowners as they clearly understand the regulations as spelled out
in the ordinance, it saves time and money for the landowners as there are not additional review processes (CUPs
or variances), and helps staff clearly communicate the expectations with property owners and businesses.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the growth and development of the business community.
Attachments
Planning Commission Staff Report dated September 26, 2023
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity.
Updated: January 2023
Request for Action
To Item Number
Planning Commission 9.2
Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by
Work Session September 26, 2023 Zack Carlton, Community Development Director
Item Description Reviewed by
Signage along Hwy 169 Post-Construction
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Discuss options for business signage along Highway 169 post-construction.
Background/Discussion
The conversion of four major signalized intersections along Highway 169 to interchanges will have a significant
impact to our community and on how motorists locate and access our local businesses. One of the key elements
to this discussion is signage.
Our current sign ordinance may not support the continued success and growth of businesses impacted by access
changes along Highway 169. Staff and the Elk River Chamber of Commerce would like the Planning Commission
to discuss possible sign ordinance changes as the project nears its end in 2024.
Staff will provide examples of signs and ordinances in the surrounding community to facilitate the discussion.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the business community.
Meet changing needs - Agile
Attachments
None
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity.
Updated: August 2020