The Bloomington City Council concluded its multi-year review of the city's sign ordinance Monday night, approving changes that expand signage options for tall buildings and reduce electronic sign display times.

The council approved allowing up to three signs on buildings seven stories or taller, an increase from the previous limit of one sign per building. Mayor Tim Busse said the change would benefit Bloomington businesses and provide building owners an incentive to attract and retain tenants. The council also reduced the dwell time for electronic signs from 20 seconds to eight seconds, bringing the city in line with national standards.

The sign ordinance updates cap a process that began several years ago when the council determined the existing code needed modernization. The Planning Commission provided input, and the council held study sessions and public hearings before approving the updated code in February 2024. Staff returned in April with additional adjustments and presented the final changes Monday.

Separately, the council reviewed concept designs for safety improvements at the intersection of 84th Street and Normandale Boulevard, which Busse identified as the city's busiest intersection. The proposed changes include reducing or redesigning turn lanes and adding pedestrian refuge islands to improve safety for cyclists and pedestrians moving between residential neighborhoods, office towers and Normandale Lake Park.

City staff will refine the intersection design options and work with Hennepin County on potential pedestrian and bicycle safety funding. The council also received a reminder that National Night Out neighborhood events must be registered by July 24 for the August 5 community celebration.