1e Approval of Off-Premise Directional SignMEMORANDUM
TO
: Todd Gerhardt, City Manager
FROM
: Sharmeen Al-Jaff, Senior Planner
DATE
: October 10, 2005
SUBJ
: Request for an Off-Premise Directional Sign to Direct Traffic into the
Park Nicollet Clinic and Legion Site, located at the southeast
intersection of Highway 5 and Great Plains Boulevard
The applicants, Park Nicollet Clinic and American Legion Post 580, are requesting a
directional sign to direct motorists to the driveway access that leads to their property.
The sites are located at the southeast intersection of Highway 5 and Great Plains
Boulevard. They share a full access point off of Lake Drive East. Both buildings are
visible from Highway 5. The problem that faces travelers is the fact that without a
sign, they can not find the entrance into the site. West bound vehicles on Highway 5
take a left on Great Plains Boulevard, left on Lake Drive East, and continue until they
reach Dakota Avenue only to realize they missed their turn and have to make a “U”
turn.
Sec. 20-1255. addresses signs allowed without permit. They include off-premises
“Off-premises signs shall be allowed only in situations
directional signs and state
where access is confusing and traffic safety could be jeopardized or traffic could be
inappropriately routed through residential streets. The size of the sign shall be no
larger than what is needed to effectively view the sign from the roadway and shall
be approved by the city council.”
Mr. Todd Gerhardt
October 10, 2005
Page 2
The subject site is
an example of a
good application
of a directional
sign. The only
appropriate
location for the
sign is on the
Northcott
property located
east of the subject
sites. Northcott
has agreed to
allow the sign on
their property;
however, a utility
and drainage
easement occupies the area. Staff reviewed and supports the proposed sign location within this
easement. Approval is contingent upon the applicant obtaining an encroachment agreement from
the City.
The sign is proposed to be shared by Park Nicollet and American Legion. The height on the sign
is 5 feet. The sign area is 24.5 square feet and is proposed to be set back 10 feet from the
property line. Staff believes
the request is reasonable and
warranted and is
recommending the City
Council approve the request.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the City
Council adopt the following
motion:
“The City Council approves
the 24.5 square-foot off-
premise directional sign
identifying the entrance into
Park Nicollet Clinic and
American Legion Post 580.
The sign will be located at the southwest corner of the Northcott site, and will maintain a
minimum of 10 feet from the property line with the following condition:
1.The applicant shall enter into an encroachment agreement with the City.”
g:\plan\sa\park nicollet clinic\directional sign.doc