The Design Review Commission of San Gabriel convened on October 28, 2024, to discuss significant updates to the master sign program for the commercial plaza located at 140 West Valley Boulevard. This meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to revitalize the area, which is part of the Valley Boulevard specific plan aimed at enhancing the community's aesthetic and economic vitality.

The proposed updates to the master sign program, the first since 1993, include a comprehensive redesign of signage to improve visibility and wayfinding for both vehicles and pedestrians. The plaza, which spans approximately 12.6 acres and houses a 218,000 square foot commercial space, will feature new pylon signs at both the Valley Boulevard and Delmar Avenue entrances. These signs are designed to be more prominent and user-friendly, incorporating a combination of channel letters and illuminated features to enhance visibility.

In addition to the signage, the commission reviewed a proposed public art feature designed by artist Sasha West. The mural aims to symbolize the cultural rebloom of San Gabriel, although some commissioners expressed a desire for the artwork to reflect the city's historical context more closely. The commission's discussions underscored the importance of integrating public art with the overall design of the plaza to create a cohesive visual identity.

The commission unanimously approved the updated master sign program, which will allow individual tenants to customize their signage within the established guidelines. This flexibility is intended to enhance the overall guest experience and promote the diverse offerings of the plaza's tenants, including notable anchors like 99 Ranch Supermarket.

The meeting also addressed concerns regarding the design consistency of the signage and its integration with the surrounding environment. Commissioners emphasized the need for a unified color palette and design elements that resonate throughout the plaza, ensuring that the signage not only serves its functional purpose but also contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the area.

As the city moves forward with these improvements, the commission's decisions reflect a broader commitment to enhancing community spaces and fostering economic development through thoughtful design. The next steps will involve the implementation of the approved signage and art features, with ongoing opportunities for public engagement and feedback as the project progresses.