HomeMy WebLinkAboutDept Report 1-18-05CARMEL PLAN COMMISSION
DEPARTMENT REPORT
January 18, 200~
4i.
Docket No. 04110034 DP/ADLS: Tom Wood Nissan
The petitioner proposes a new commercial structure, parking, and signage. The site is
located at 4150 East 96th Street. The site is zoned B3/Business.
Filed by Lawrence Lawhead for Tom Wood Nissan.
The applicant is requesting approval of a Development Plan and ADLS for the construction of an
automobile dealership at 4150 East 96th Street. The property is Surrounded by other commercial
uses in the area. Please see the informational packet prepared by the applicant for an overview of
the site.
The proposed building is quite distinct and is very similar to the prototypical Nissan dealerships
around the country. The Department has asked the applicant to explore alternate building
materials than the proposed wide expanses ofprecast concrete. We have also advised them that
the Plan Commission may not respond positively to the proposed signage area on the east fagade
of the building. Variances are proposed to allow additional signage on the building. The site is
perm/tted two signs one facing 96~n and the other Bauer Drive East. The applicant is proposing a
total of four wall signs. A six-foot tall ground sign is also identified on the site plan. The
information booklet lacks Tab 11 that illustrates signage. This will be distributed at the meeting
along with lighting information. The applicant will need to illustrate a practical difficulty
resulting in the need for the level of signage requested with a building of such distinctly branded
character.
In addition, DOCS has been adamant about the screening of rooftop-mounted equipment for
some time now and it was an issue discussed with the last two Tom Wood dealerships. Their
appears to be a disconnect between the drawings supplied to the Plan Commission and DOCS
and those constructing the buildings. Both the new Subaru and Land Rover/Jaguar/Volvo
location have equipment that is clearly visible fi.om 96th Street.
DOCS requests that applicant provide the Commission with the Following:
1. Color details of all proposed signage.
2. Photos of existing dealership designs of this character.
3. Photos of the proposed signage types.
4. Explanation of fin~gs regarding rooftop mounted equipment with photos.
The Department recommends that this item be forwarded to the Special Studies Committee
on February 1st for further discussion.
PCR-2005-0118