Commission approves taller light poles for I‑10 cold‑storage site, saying higher poles increase safety and reduce total poles

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted to approve a request to increase the maximum height of parking‑lot light standards from 35 to 42 feet for a specific recently rezoned cold‑storage property on I‑10.

Staff presented the application under Article 7 (Environmental Performance Standards) of the city’s UDC, noting two approval criteria: demonstrated special lighting needs or a public health/safety justification. Staff said the applicant provided scaled drawings comparing 35‑ and 42‑foot standards and explained shielding and dark‑sky compliance.

Anisa Shell, representing the applicant and the project team, told the commission the 125‑acre site operates substantially at night and that taller poles would "provide a larger pool of light, more safety for employees, and allow better visibility at night." Shell also said the taller poles would allow "fewer light poles overall," reducing the number of fixtures by 12 on the site.

Commission discussion focused on typical lighting for large trailer parking areas and how concrete bollards and other safety features protect poles from vehicle strikes. After questions and clarifications, a commissioner moved to approve the specific 42‑foot height for the project, conditioned on compliance with UDC shielding and light‑trespass standards. The motion passed and was recorded as carried.

Next steps: The project team will proceed with building and site‑plan work consistent with the UDC and the conditions the commission noted.