Rio Lakefront seeks permission for new sign on I-270 in Gaithersburg

The Peterson Cos. is asking the City of Gaithersburg for permission to erect a new sign for its Rio Lakefront development along I-270. It is requesting a special exception allowing it to be a bit closer to the highway than current city rules allow, due to the existing vegetation and a sewer line on the strip of land where the sign is to be placed. The sign will be lit at night, and will feature several of the property's retail and restaurant tenant names - and presumably include the AMC Dine-In Rio Cinemas 18, as well. 

Peterson Cos.'s request will be taken up by the Planning Commission at its February 2, 2022 meeting tomorrow night. Planning staff recommends approval of the sign request and exceptions. In its comments, staff notes that competing developments along I-270 have similar prominent signage by the highway, and that Rio should therefore be granted the necessary exceptions.