Citrus Heights council votes to allow temporary signs on Auburn Blvd. during construction

By Sara Beth Williams–
The Citrus Heights City Council this month approved a short-term pause on temporary signage regulations during the course of the Auburn Boulevard Complete Streets Project, Phase 2.

In an Aug. 14 City Council meeting, the council agreed to lift regulations regarding temporary signage that are outlined in the city’s code.

The city’s Zoning Ordinance regulates temporary signage to ensure that all signs meet “safety standards and maintain the aesthetic appearance” of the city while still providing businesses with an opportunity to advertise. Temporary signage is permitted for special events, occasional promotions, and other similar situations, and the Zoning Ordinance typically limits the time-frame for temporary signage to a maximum of 30 days.

Construction along Auburn Boulevard in Phase 2 of the Complete Streets revitalization project began at the end of July, and is expected to last 18 to 24 months, during which at least one lane will be closed 24-hours-per-day, seven-days-a-week, during construction.

In order to help ensure drivers know businesses are still open, the city has erected temporary bright orange signs with arrows pointing toward open driveways where businesses operate.

“Temporary signage will be an important tool for businesses during this construction period,” the city said, adding that temporary signage also enhances the visibility of which driveways are open during construction.

In an interview with The Sentinel, City Engineer Leslie Blomquist said implementing 24-hour lane closures will save nearly $3 million over the course of the project.

Blomquist said only sections under active construction will be closed, and that businesses along the boulevard will remain open. Construction crews will always allow for at least one access point to businesses along the boulevard, she said.

At the end of the construction project, temporary signage requirements will revert to the previous standards in place as set forth by the Zoning Ordinance.