HPC adding visuals to sign guideline brochure

Downtown Pocatello prides itself on preserving its history. That’s why the Historic Preservation Commission is updating resources to make sure its history is maintained.

The HPC plans to update their sign guideline brochure, adding visuals to show specifically what they’ll be looking for. Mainly in pictures, the new brochure would show examples of acceptable signs. The previous brochure didn’t have pictures at all.

All signs in the downtown historic district are required to reflect the area between 1892 and 1939. There are also design tips, including how to properly light your sign, color it and even what materials to use to reflect the noted time period.

The brochure also outlines the sign review process to obtain a certificate of appropriateness for the sign.

Many businesses in the area used local sign and graphics companies to get their signs made. Black Rail Antiques owner Guy Cotroneo says he wouldn’t have done it any other way, and that it made the process go smoothly without hassle.

“I’m not artistic enough to do it myself anyways, so I would have had to hire somebody,” he said. “It was just easier to hire somebody that knew what they were doing and they handled the whole process.”

Business owners are encouraged by the HPC to put their individual taste and style into their signs, they just have to be compatible with the guidelines.

The new brochure will be finalized at HPC’s meeting Wednesday. The meeting is at 6 p.m. at City Hall.