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Goochland may soon be getting its words out via electronic message signs, if an amended ordinance is passed in August.

At their June meeting, Planning and Zoning Commission members discussed whether these signs should be permitted, and what they should look like if they are.

Citing signs in nearby counties, Director of Planning Bob Hammond said, “Electronic message signs are the new vogue in terms of signage in the area, and the Board of Supervisors wanted the Planning Commission to address this issue.”

The ordinance proposed by county staff would consolidate the county’s sign regulations into one article and would allow electronic signs in B-1, B-2, B-3, M-1, M-2 and P-O-P zoning districts.

Electronic signs would also be allowed for churches in agricultural zones.

County staff is recommending that signs in agricultural districts have a sign face of up to 32 square feet, with an electronic face area of up to 16 square feet.

Signs in business and industrial zones could, if the ordinance is passed, have a sign face of up to 50 square feet with an electronic face area of up to 25 square feet.

The sign’s message would not change more than once every 60 seconds, and no flashing or scrolling lines would be allowed.

Some commissioners were concerned that the electronic signs might not be consistent with the rural character in less developed areas of the county.

After several commissioners asked if the issue could be deferred, Hammond said that since the BOS referred the proposal, the planning commission has a 60-day time limit or the issue will go back to the supervisors.

The commission unanimously voted to appoint a subcommittee to study the issue; a vote will be taken in August.

Quick Hits

Auto graveyard permitted

A conditional-use permit for an automobile graveyard on the west side of Shannon Hill Road was unanimously passed. The applicant will be required to dispose of batteries, tires and fluids, and cannot increase the number of vehicles currently on the property.

Thoroughfare plan update

An update on the county’s thoroughfare plan was updated by consulting firm Michael Baker Jr., Inc.  The plan has used data from VDOT to project the county’s roadway needs through 2035. The plan accommodates expected growth in the Route 250 corridor by proposing a network of roads, sidewalks, bicycle facilities, a new greenway and a multiuse trail. 

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