The 129-unit development proposed by Orleans Homebuilders should have signs that reflect its historic Victorian feel, residents and officials say.
By: Linda Seida and Brooke Olster
LAMBERTVILLE The design of proposed signs at Orleans Homebuilders’ property on Route 29 and Phillips-Barber Road have drawn criticism from the public.
At the Aug. 6 Planning Board meeting, many expressed the opinion that signs in Lambertville should reflect its historic Victorian feel.
The signs in question would be located at the development’s entranceway, on site at the top of Phillips-Barber Road.
Earlier this summer, the board initially approved two signs, one on each side of the driveway. When Orleans went before the board last week, it asked to be allowed to change one of those signs while keeping the other as it was originally approved, the board’s administrative officer, Christopher Colt, said Monday.
Orleans wanted to exchange one of the 32-square-foot signs for a thin, 6-foot high monument that would stand in the same spot and display a plaque announcing the development’s name. The monument could be brick, stone or stucco, Mr. Colt said. He termed the monument’s design style as colonial.
"The signs that were brought up last week were an improvement over the previously approved signs," according to Mayor David Del Vecchio.
"Why is there not more an intent to make the sign look more like Lambertville?" asked resident Marie Collins, who said Orleans should use more of a Victorian theme for its signs to better blend in with the town’s design.
"We should have more of a say in a new structure’s appearance and how it melds with existing developments."
"Big signs aren’t needed, just street signs," said resident Beatrice Boroughs, who was concerned an elaborate sign would increase taxes.
In staying consistent with local architecture, many residents voiced their feeling local resources be used when designing an appropriate sign.
"Has there been any attempt to talk to local sign makers?" said resident Elizabeth Rescupo. "I think there’s resources in town that should be used."
Orleans also wants a sales trailer moved now on property it is leasing; it contains all the utilities. But putting the trailer at the foot of Phillips-Barber at the Lambertville-New Hope Ambulance and Rescue Squad where Orleans also wants to put a new sign for the squad does not conform to approved uses for the location, according to the mayor.
The board sent this request to the zoning board.
"I just don’t agree with it," said board member Steve Stegman, who also is a member of the Historic Preservation Commission. Mr. Stegman has long been a strong proponent of keeping the historic tone of Lambertville accurate.
The board approved Orleans’ site plan for a 129-unit subdivision of townhouses last year. The property currently is farmland and forest. Units are expected to go up in the spring, said board Chairman Timothy Korzun.