12.0 - 609 Congress Ave — original pdf

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HISTORIC LANDMARK COMMISSION PERMITS IN NATIONAL REGISTER HISTORIC DISTRICTS AUGUST 6, 2025 SB-2025-085188 CONGRESS AVENUE HISTORIC DISTRICT 609 CONGRESS AVENUE 12.0 – 1 PROPOSAL Install a sign. PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS Construct a 51 square foot sign on the front of a two-story building in a historic district. DESIGN STANDARDS The City of Austin Signage Guidelines are used to evaluate projects within the historic district. The following standards apply to the proposed project: New Signage 1. Number of signs Proposal is for one sign for a single tenant. 2. Sign types Application details an awning sign, which is a typology allowed by signage guidelines. 3. Sign size Proposed sign is just over 50 square feet in size. Awning signs are allowed to be the lesser of 8 square feet or 20% of the awning panel, which this proposal far exceeds. However, it is noted that the sign it proposes to replace is a similar size and its permit was approved in 2010. 4. Sign design, coloring and materials The design is simple and uses less than three colors. There is a black block with lettering as well as individual standalone lettering on the left half of the assembly. 5. Lettering Two typefaces are used, one of which is stylized to fit the brand of the tenant. It does not appear as too contemporary, however. 6. Lighting Documentation indicates that the sign will be lit internally. Historic sign guidelines state that internally lit cabinet signs are specifically prohibited within historic districts. 8. Sign placement Sign is placed near entrance, above the minimum required height, and centered on the awning. 9. Sign mounting It is assumed that the proposed sign will reuse the mounting elements or locations of the previous sign, which was installed in the same area. Summary The project [meets / does not meet / meets some of] the applicable standards. PROPERTY EVALUATION The property contributes to the Congress Avenue National Register district. STAFF RECOMMENDATION Approve the sign’s size, given the previously installed signage in the same location. Do not approve internal lighting design and request indirect lighting.