Proposed Billboard in Lebanon Borough

Posted by M Paradis

May 11, 2007

If you haven’t heard already, CBS outdoor has made an application for a proposed billboard at the Stow-Away facility on Werner Way. Just to be clear - there are currently 2 applications for proposed billboards that will effect Lebanon Borough. The first is in Clinton Twp at the Raceweld facility off Rt 22 in Clinton Twp. This application from Coastal proposes a 50′x20′ double sided sign on a 105′ pole - check out some pictures of the mock-up here. The next public meetings in Clinton Twp to hear this proposal are on May 29, June 25, July 23 and Aug 31 (if needed). Meetings start at 7:30PM at the Municipal Center in Annandale. You can get minutes and agenda items here.

The unfortunate reality of the this proposed billboard is that it is in Clinton Twp but on the outskirts of Lebanon Borough effecting our quality of life and aesthetics.

The second proposed billboard is in Lebanon Borough at the Stow-Away facility on Werner Way (Block 2, Lot 4.02).

The initial proposal for the billboard was a V-shaped, double faced sign, with 2 sign faces, one pointing in each direction of travel along Route 78, and 50 feet wide by 20 feet high. The sign would be mounted on a single pole, so that the top of the structure would be 85 feet in height. The closest point of the sign face will be set back 12 feet from the Route 78 right-of-way. The proposed billboard will be 1,010 ft away from the unbuilt Coastal billboard located to the West.

The Governing Body passed an Ordinance effectively regulating the location and construction of off-site outdoor advertising signs (Ordinance 2007-04). The Ordinance was thoroughly reviewed by both Planning Board/Zoning Board of Adjustment, Borough Attorney and Special Counsel specifically hired to assist in the adoption of said ordinance.

Due to the above Ordinance, the billboard has been modified from a height of 85 feet to 55 feet and the width/height of the billboard have changed from 50 feet wide and 20 feet high to 48 feet wide and 14 feet high.

CBS Outdoor must still request variances due to the application not meeting the conditional use requirements of the Borough’s new billboard ordinance.

The next public hearing for this application is set for June 13 at 7PM at the Lebanon Borough Municipal building, 6 High Street.