07-17-1995 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Zoning File f^2026 July lb, 1995 Pace 2 The applicant has consulted with the Minnesota Department of Transportation for sp>ecial signage that would alert oncoming traffic of secluded entrance to daycare facility. Mn/DOT has advised the applicant that if special signage is to be considered at entrance that the City must deal directly with Mn/DOT on such a request and that the propeny owner cannot request special sienace. In a recent "drive by observation", staff noted that the entrance way to the daycare has been cleared of encroaching plantings. Applicant claims that difficulties arise for vehicular traffic approaching from east with the curve in the roadway. Clear vision of entrance is not apparent and becomes a safety issue because of the speed of the traffic. The 4 x4 pylon sign at entrance at approximately 5'^’ above grade of road is applicant’s attempt to address that need. Applicant also stated at a recent meeting that signage is not necessarily provided tor daily visitors to the daycare center but would provide adequate warning and safer use of access for visitors who do not visit this site on a regular basis. Applicant has provided two alternatives for signage adjacent to the building. Option I. Exhibit D, proposes a 4 ’2‘^"x4 ’2'^" illuminated sign at 18 s.f. to be attached to the north side of the building. Option U, proposes an independent pylon sign, two sided, at the same dimensions tor a total of 36 s.f. In both plans, the building signage would be illuminated. The entry sign will not be illuminated. The entry pylon is now sWn at a total height of 13 ’8". The sign was originally proposed at 17’8" for a total reduction of 5’. The pylon sign adjacent to the facility with Option II is shown at a maximum height of 12’. The original proposal showed a 15’6" height for a total reduction of 3 ‘A’ in height. Review Exhibit F, applicant’s sign contractor has provided additional information on the illuminated apron above the entrance door. Both applicant and contractor have advised that in residential areas timers control the lighting so that signs only need to be illuminated when daycare is in operation. Staff has talked with Bill Warden of the Minnesota Department of Transportation concerning special signage along the road right of-way. Mr. Warden advised that the only signage that he was aware of was signage advising of school crossings, etc. There is nothing for special uses like a daycare facility. He noted that he would be very happy to meet with the sign contractor to stake the edge of the right-of-way and noted the need for signage at the entrance because of the location of the driveway in relation to the facility. He also understood applicant’s concerns for the need to alert oncoming cars from the east of the approaching entrance. A sign announcing entrance to daycare facilities would be helpful for persons unfamUiar with the site.