DTNA concerned about new Bank of the West signage

Bank of the West has applied for permits to install two lit signs outside their soon-to-be new location at the ground floor of the just-finished condominium, Icon (2299 Market Street). The permits call for a 19'10" wide by 3' tall curved sign situated on the corner of Noe, Market and 16th streets. The other sign will be 17'10" wide and 1'7-1/2" high and placed on 16th Street. DTNA President Pat Tura recently penned an article in the Duboce Triangle Neighborhood Association newsletter titled, "Billboard Branding" where she describes the bank's branding proposal as "excessive",

This separate sign on 16th Street or Noe Street is both unnecessary and undesirable. The sign above the door is excessive in size. The two signs represent branding for branding’s sake, which is contrary to the Planning Commission’s expressed wish for the Market Street corridor. The Planning Commission, however, does not have jurisdiction over signage. The Planning Department has only a narrow amount. What has been presented does not conform to the goals of the Upper Market Street District design guidelines which foresee moderate scale development that contributes to Market Street design and character. A single sign has one influence, but the cumulative effect of multiple signs can have a detrimental impact on a mixed area that is both residential and commercial. The cumulative effects of multiple developments with excessive signage all along Market Street, or side streets such as 15th Street or Sanchez Street, will be a key factor in the overall look and streetscape of our neighborhood. (Not to mention trying to sleep with the illuminated glow of signage.)

Tura suggested that members of the community who were opposed to the bank's signage plans contact the members of the Planning Commission to voice their concerns before their upcoming meeting with Bank of the West attorneys the week of August 12th. Do you think the signage is excessive or do you believe this is much ado about nothing?