Planning board waives further site-plan review for 455 Russell Street but defers signage approval

Project manager Robbie Scott of Espana and Associates presented revisions for 455 Russell Street, including keeping and repairing the cupola, repainting trim, new shielded site lighting and proposed signage. "We will be providing all new lighting throughout the site to match, what you guys had discussed last time with the shielded lights," Scott said.

Signage vendor Paige Dewey (AGI) described a proposed 15-foot pylon, two building signs and additional wall panels in branded green; the board questioned internal illumination and sizing. The board and vendor agreed that converting internally illuminated lettering to halo (backlit) or using downward gooseneck lighting for the pylon would avoid requiring a variance. Dewey noted some sign options may still require a variance and said she would take lighting options back to the designer.

Board member moved to waive further site-plan approval for the structure while explicitly excluding signs from that waiver; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The board directed applicants to return with revised sign details before final sign approval.