§ 2209. Intent; findings, establishment of special sign district.

(a)

Intent. The intent of the sign regulations set forth in this section is to:

(1)

Encourage signage that enhances the overall aesthetics of the Central Business Core District;

(2)

Ensure that the public benefits derived from past and future expenditures of public funds for the infrastructure improvements and beautification of the streets and public spaces are protected by preventing visual clutter caused by excessive or poorly placed signage;

(3)

Encourage signage that is reflective of the aesthetics and character of its location and compatible with, and integrated into, the building's architectural design and with other signs on the property;

(4)

Provide incentives for high-quality signage by increasing signage allowances for signs that conform to the Central Business Core District Design Guidelines; and

(5)

Encourage creativity by providing flexibility to utilize signage not only as a means of identifying a business establishment but as a decorative feature to enhance the appearance of a building as well.

(b)

Findings. The City Council finds that:

(1)

Signs have a strong visual impact on the character and quality of a community. They are an integral part of the cityscape and, as such, can enhance or detract from the City's image and character. As a prominent part of the cityscape, they can attract or repel the viewer and affect the safety of vehicular traffic, and their suitability helps to define the way in which a community is perceived. Because the City of Virginia Beach relies on the attractiveness of the Town Center area to attract tourists and commerce, aesthetic considerations are directly related to economic value. Apart from economic considerations, however, there are intangible benefits for a community in which signage is orderly and attractive;

(2)

The City's current sign regulations address characteristics such as the size and number of signs, but generally do not address other characteristics, such as design, that are equally important in promoting an attractive, urban downtown area.

(3)

Design standards for signage are used in many other localities that are known for their attractiveness and appeal to residents and visitors alike, and have been well-accepted by both businesses and the general public as a means of enhancing the overall appearance and prosperity of the community; and

(4)

Providing incentives for businesses to display signage that conforms to voluntary design guidelines is an appropriate means of encouraging those businesses to use well-designed, highly attractive signs that harmonize with the buildings on which they are displayed, the surrounding neighborhood, and other signage in the area.

(c)

Establishment of special sign district. The Central Business Core District is hereby declared a special sign district, in which the provisions of this section apply.

(Ord. No. 3327, 2-25-14)

(Ord. No. 3327, 2-25-14)