Coquitlam is looking at ways to make sure electronic billboards fit in with the community without being a hazard to drivers.
Design guidelines for the street signs are being developed and the public is invited to weigh in.
Among the issues to be considered is design, such as how to ensure the signs are attractive and weather resistant, siting to ensure they don’t impact sight lines for drivers, orientation so that the exposure is to the road away from residential areas, display to limit brightness and ensure the picture quality adjusts to weather conditions, and energy conservation, to ensure signs include energy-efficient displays.
The city is also looking at what voluntary community community benefits might be part of new applications for signs on private property.
Feedback is welcome at [email protected] before March 24.
In February, city council approved first three readings of a bylaw to allow the signs although the decision wasn’t unanimous, with councillors’ opinions ranging from supportive, to questioning and others outright opposed because of negative public feedback.
But approval has not been finalized, fourth reading is still required and the public will also get a chance to speak at a future public hearing.
More information is available at www.coquitlam.ca/billboards
— with files from Grant Granger
