The effort to restore an iconic Pittsburgh sign moved one step closer to fruition on Tuesday.
The city's Planning Commission recommended legislation governing electronic signs. Planning commission members said the legislation would allow a face-lift of the old Bayer sign, owned by Lamar Advertising, that overlooks the city.
The refurbishing still faces one governing body: City Council must vote on the legislation.
Among the provisions that the planning commission approved in the electronic sign legislation: There can't be motion on new electronic signs; messages must wait at least eight seconds before they change; regulates how bright signs can be during the day and night; and the electronic legislation will be reviewed after one and two years if it is approved. The commission said existing electronic signs will be grandfathered into the legislation.
The legislation has been in the works for several years, after a controversy erupted over an electronic billboard on the Grant Transportation Center, with accusations that city officials gave improper approval for the sign. The sign was never finished, and a recent court settlement means that the remnants of the sign will be removed from the center.
The 1920s-era Bayer sign at Grandview Avenue in Duquesne Heights is rusting, and the paint that once spelled out the word "Pittsburgh" has faded. Bayer Corp. has leased the sign since 1994, Bayer spokesman Bryan Iams said.
Dan Sentz, city environmental planner, said support for refurbishing the sign versus taking it down has been split.
"Some people look at it as an icon, some don't, but we want it to be refurbished without it being a detriment to city resources," he said.
Lamar Vice President Stan Geier did not return calls for comment. Iams said cement on the sign is cracking and certain components within are leaking.
The sign uses neon gas tubes, a technology that is no longer in use, making repairs difficult, Iams said.
"I don't think anyone would build a sign today utilizing that technology," he said.
Iams said the sign rotates between the Bayer name, science questions and advertising for area nonprofits. It cannot show pictures or videos.
With upgrades that would include LED technology, Iams said the company would be able to offer more features, including Amber Alerts when a child disappears. Bayer's extension of its lease on the sign is tied into refurbishments, Iams said. He did not release financial details on the lease.
Joanna Doven, spokeswoman for Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, said the administration has held meetings with stakeholders concerning the future of the sign and believes that moving forward with upgrades would "benefit everyone."
"It's an eyesore for city residents and those who visit here," Doven said.
Doven said updating the sign with newer technology -- possibly including LED -- will better reflect Pittsburgh's reputation as a city on the leading edge of technology and green sustainability.
