Holz Motors, Inc.

When local roads need widening, Lemberg Signs and Lighting is often called upon to relocate signage for established businesses affected by the construction. Sign relocations can be complicated and risky. In 2018, Holz Motors Inc. was required to relocated two large illuminated pylon signs that had been in place since the 1970's. This was to make way for the expansion of Wisconsin State Trunk Hwy 100 at Forest Home Avenue in the village of Hales Corners, Wisconsin.

Two large pylon signs were to be excavated from the existing location and moved, 2-15' from their existing locations. The signs measured 11'x11'x1' and 14'x14x1' with pole structures that set them 35' and 38' above the ground, respectively. Electrical service to the signs also needed to be updated and extended.

Significant engineering and planning were required for the safe success of the project. The team was challenged by the concurrent road construction and by nearby high voltage power lines, unstable ground conditions, and general disrepair of the supporting pole cladding. (See images)

During excavation, the crews uncovered the foundation from an old home, requiring a modification to the project scope. It was also discovered that the ground conditions were so unstable that steel culvert casings, backfill and 16 yards of concrete slurry were needed for stabilization of each new sign foundation.

Lemberg collaborated with the municipality to secure extensive permitting and ensure financial reimbursement for the customer. Since Lemberg was not the original designer or installer of the signs, the team contacted the original designer to gain a better understanding of the signs' construction. The team was able to safely reuse the two signs, which were constructed from quality materials: durable aluminum cabinets with pan formed, UV and impact-resistant polycarbonate faces and vinyl graphics. However, on-site reconstruction of the cladding on the pole structures to provide weather protection was necessary.

Lemberg synchronized their project timeline with road construction, concrete and asphalt work, trenching, and craning crews. The size of the signs required using a 50-ton crane and the larger sign stood 20 feet from high voltage power lines. For the safety of the crews, WE Energies as well as safety personnel from all contractors were brought on site to provide assistance during the move.

Overall, the success of this project depended upon the coordination of a variety of trades and timelines as well as solid communications. Relocations, like building renovations are rarely simple.

Features

• Pylon Signs
• Illuminated Signs
• Relocation
• Craning
• Trenching
• Electrical Wiring
• High Density
• Engineering and Design