Does anyone know what the 'bench-like' things are that have popped up along 30-a?????? Surely they aren't benches.......so what?? Curious....?
Replies
1,381
SoWal Expert
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
Since they gave the winning bid to a "local" company out of Niceville, they cost more than they would have, if they had gone with the lesser bid. I cannot recall the price. I want to say it was around $100K-200K. The only one of these signs which looks somewhat like the correct scale, is the one on 331 S, on the causeway.
And how much did those cost?
Since they gave the winning bid to a "local" company out of Niceville, they cost more than they would have, if they had gone with the lesser bid. I cannot recall the price. I want to say it was around $100K-200K. The only one of these signs which looks somewhat like the correct scale, is the one on 331 S, on the causeway.
Beach Fanatic
Re: What are these things beside the road?
Ditto - my 75 year old mother had no problem finding her way around after living here about a day. This ain't exactly Boston.
There was consistent signage (at least IMO), and the wood signs had some charm.
Why exactly did we need the new ones?
My parents have only visited Sowal a total of 2x, yet know exactly where anything is that I am talking about on the phone via the easy landmarks of Alys Beach, Gulf Place, Seaside, and the flashing red lights at 395 and Grayton. :roll:
Ditto - my 75 year old mother had no problem finding her way around after living here about a day. This ain't exactly Boston.
percy
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
Okay, the other half has informed me that the reason behind the bolts at the bottom are so that the top if hit by a car will snap off rather than messing up the foundation.Is this a request?
Beach Fanatic
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
Those directional signs are ridiculously high. I noticed driving by that I had to raise my head and eyes to read it, which meant I took my eyes off the road ahead of me, momentarily. I think they are dangerous. Very high signs, like on a freeway, can be read from far enough away that you can still keep your eyes on the road. Not so with these because the letters are proportionatley too small.
I voted in the poll. My choice was horrid.
Of all the things that could have been done to improve the "scenic" qualities of 30A, this is not one of them.
Oh, and I use the blue bags. Several of my neighbors do too.
Those directional signs are ridiculously high. I noticed driving by that I had to raise my head and eyes to read it, which meant I took my eyes off the road ahead of me, momentarily. I think they are dangerous. Very high signs, like on a freeway, can be read from far enough away that you can still keep your eyes on the road. Not so with these because the letters are proportionatley too small.
I voted in the poll. My choice was horrid.
Of all the things that could have been done to improve the "scenic" qualities of 30A, this is not one of them.
Oh, and I use the blue bags. Several of my neighbors do too.
Beach Fanatic
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
:funn:
:funn:
Inspiration for the new "Big Blues"?
Something tells me that vacationers won't be scrambling to be photographed next to these signs.
.
Beach Lover
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
Yesterday I voted somewhat dislike, however after driving by them every day and nite, I know vote more than horrid. Who chose these and who paid for them, certainly no one who lives on 30A. I think they are confusing and I live here!!
Yesterday I voted somewhat dislike, however after driving by them every day and nite, I know vote more than horrid. Who chose these and who paid for them, certainly no one who lives on 30A. I think they are confusing and I live here!!
SWGB
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
This one is, knock yourself out. Of course that could be literal, not sure exactly what kind of force it would take.
Is this a request?
This one is, knock yourself out. Of course that could be literal, not sure exactly what kind of force it would take.
SoWal Expert
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
I'd like to see some chin-up bars installed on the taller signs. That way, we could have a fitness trail circuit.
I'd like to see some chin-up bars installed on the taller signs. That way, we could have a fitness trail circuit.
Beach Lover
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
I don't know where my earlier posting went but I wanted to thank rapunzel for the poll. Does anyone know if complaining to TDC does anygood? Moreso, does anyone have any suggestions on how to push public opinion in the direction of the people putting up the new signs, that we'd like them taken down and the old ones (or some new ones like the old ones) put in their place??? I think wooden signs of smaller stature are a lot more pleasant on the eye than metal, giant ones.
I don't know where my earlier posting went but I wanted to thank rapunzel for the poll. Does anyone know if complaining to TDC does anygood? Moreso, does anyone have any suggestions on how to push public opinion in the direction of the people putting up the new signs, that we'd like them taken down and the old ones (or some new ones like the old ones) put in their place??? I think wooden signs of smaller stature are a lot more pleasant on the eye than metal, giant ones.
Beach Fanatic
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
I would like to get some digits on how much these signs cost.
I would like to get some digits on how much these signs cost.
Beach Lover
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities
One more thing.... With the giant metal pipe signs and the benches of a board on top of two metal pipes coming out of the ground; why has SoWal gone heavy metal? Metal rusts in salt air over the years.
One more thing.... With the giant metal pipe signs and the benches of a board on top of two metal pipes coming out of the ground; why has SoWal gone heavy metal? Metal rusts in salt air over the years.
SoWal Expert
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
I mentioned a cost I recalled of around $100k-200k, but now that I think more about it, someone pointed out that there is a second type of sign, that cost may be for all of the signs, including the Wayfinding Signs for 30A and Timpoochee Trail - Phase I. I'm not sure.
I would like to get some digits on how much these signs cost.
I mentioned a cost I recalled of around $100k-200k, but now that I think more about it, someone pointed out that there is a second type of sign, that cost may be for all of the signs, including the Wayfinding Signs for 30A and Timpoochee Trail - Phase I. I'm not sure.
Edited
Beach Fanatic
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
Who are these 10 people who like them??? I've yet to see them in person. But they are "horrid" in the pics!
Who are these 10 people who like them???
I've yet to see them in person. But they are "horrid" in the pics!SoWal Expert
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
maybe the TDC surfs on SoWal.com/bb
maybe the TDC surfs on SoWal.com/bb
Beach Fanatic
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
Actually, the contract you speak of is different than this one. The signage for the bike trail is a different company and was the one just approved to the "local" bidder.
Here is the article from the Defuniak Herald, note the bold at the bottom
Progress seen with wayfinding sign projects
By DOTTY NIST
Plans and funding are in place for the first phase of a wayfinding sign project on south Walton County's 18-mile-long bicycle/pedestrian trail, according to District 5 Commissioner Cindy Meadows. Meadows' goal is to have the signs in place within the next few months on the Timpoochee Trail multi-use path.
This is the first phase of signage planned for the trail, and will be devoted to improving safety for trailer users. Pavement striping will be an additional part of the project, Meadows said.
The trail, which runs parallel with CR-30A, crosses scores of driveways and entrances to subdivisions and other developments, plus street intersections. The project will identify these intersection, driveway and entrance crossings on the trail with warning signs, Meadows explained. The project will include mile-marker signs, she added. Original plans called for 19 mile marker signs and 101 warning signs.
The Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) ran into a problem on Dec. 11 when two companies who had bid for the task of producing and installing the signs both presented bids higher than $150,000, the amount the county had estimated for the project and for which funds had been identified.
One-third of the cost was to be paid from the South Walton Tourist Development Council (TDC) budget, one-third from the recreational plat fee account, and one-third from deobligation of other accounts.
An evaluation committee had selected two companies for final presentations before the BCC on Dec. 11. One of the companies, SignTek, bid approximately $40,000 in excess of the estimated amount. The other company, Architectural Graphics, also bid higher than the estimated amount at $162,700. SignTek is located within the local area in Shalimar while Architectural Graphics is headquartered in Orlando.
After hearing the presentations, Meadows expressed discomfort about the out-of-area company. The presenters had stressed their unfamiliarity with Walton County and noted that they would need assistance in identifying locations for the signs. One of the principals stated they had increased the bid amount because, "We've never met you people."
It was also unclear if the company would be able to complete the work within the optimum time frame, since one of the principals planned to be out of the country during the entire month of February.
Meadows had commented that she would prefer going with a local company and had found the out-of-area company's statements regarding lack of knowledge about Walton County "scary." She first motioned to approve the SignTek bid, but after hearing some citizen comments withdrew that motion.
County bid documents and guidelines provide the option for the county to enter negotiations regarding price with the best-ranked proposer.
At the suggestion of District 3 Commissioner Larry Jones, Meadows made a second motion to set up a meeting between SignTek, herself and county Public Works staff to research what portion of the project could be completed within the county's $150,000 estimated cost amount. The motion was approved unanimously and the meeting set up.
"It worked out really well," Meadows reported on Jan. 4. She said that certain modifications to the project, including reducing the size of the mile marker signs, elimination of some other type signs, and arranging for public works to do some of the sign installation, the price of the Phase I project has been reduced to approximately $160,000. She added that the tourism council has agreed to fund the additional $10,000 through their budget.
The TDC also had sign news last week. This week they will be installing wayfinding signs on roadways countywide, including "gateway" signs welcoming visitors to Walton County and community identification and directional wayfinding signs in south Walton County. The project is the culmination of four years' work by council staff and consultants.
The signs are similar in appearance to the ones identifying the South Walton Annex and South Walton High School. Sonny Mares of the TDC said all signs are expected to be in place by the end of the week.
Since they gave the winning bid to a "local" company out of Niceville, they cost more than they would have, if they had gone with the lesser bid. I cannot recall the price. I want to say it was around $100K-200K. The only one of these signs which looks somewhat like the correct scale, is the one on 331 S, on the causeway.
Actually, the contract you speak of is different than this one. The signage for the bike trail is a different company and was the one just approved to the "local" bidder.
Here is the article from the Defuniak Herald, note the bold at the bottom
Progress seen with wayfinding sign projects
By DOTTY NIST
Plans and funding are in place for the first phase of a wayfinding sign project on south Walton County's 18-mile-long bicycle/pedestrian trail, according to District 5 Commissioner Cindy Meadows. Meadows' goal is to have the signs in place within the next few months on the Timpoochee Trail multi-use path.
This is the first phase of signage planned for the trail, and will be devoted to improving safety for trailer users. Pavement striping will be an additional part of the project, Meadows said.
The trail, which runs parallel with CR-30A, crosses scores of driveways and entrances to subdivisions and other developments, plus street intersections. The project will identify these intersection, driveway and entrance crossings on the trail with warning signs, Meadows explained. The project will include mile-marker signs, she added. Original plans called for 19 mile marker signs and 101 warning signs.
The Walton County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) ran into a problem on Dec. 11 when two companies who had bid for the task of producing and installing the signs both presented bids higher than $150,000, the amount the county had estimated for the project and for which funds had been identified.
One-third of the cost was to be paid from the South Walton Tourist Development Council (TDC) budget, one-third from the recreational plat fee account, and one-third from deobligation of other accounts.
An evaluation committee had selected two companies for final presentations before the BCC on Dec. 11. One of the companies, SignTek, bid approximately $40,000 in excess of the estimated amount. The other company, Architectural Graphics, also bid higher than the estimated amount at $162,700. SignTek is located within the local area in Shalimar while Architectural Graphics is headquartered in Orlando.
After hearing the presentations, Meadows expressed discomfort about the out-of-area company. The presenters had stressed their unfamiliarity with Walton County and noted that they would need assistance in identifying locations for the signs. One of the principals stated they had increased the bid amount because, "We've never met you people."
It was also unclear if the company would be able to complete the work within the optimum time frame, since one of the principals planned to be out of the country during the entire month of February.
Meadows had commented that she would prefer going with a local company and had found the out-of-area company's statements regarding lack of knowledge about Walton County "scary." She first motioned to approve the SignTek bid, but after hearing some citizen comments withdrew that motion.
County bid documents and guidelines provide the option for the county to enter negotiations regarding price with the best-ranked proposer.
At the suggestion of District 3 Commissioner Larry Jones, Meadows made a second motion to set up a meeting between SignTek, herself and county Public Works staff to research what portion of the project could be completed within the county's $150,000 estimated cost amount. The motion was approved unanimously and the meeting set up.
"It worked out really well," Meadows reported on Jan. 4. She said that certain modifications to the project, including reducing the size of the mile marker signs, elimination of some other type signs, and arranging for public works to do some of the sign installation, the price of the Phase I project has been reduced to approximately $160,000. She added that the tourism council has agreed to fund the additional $10,000 through their budget.
The TDC also had sign news last week. This week they will be installing wayfinding signs on roadways countywide, including "gateway" signs welcoming visitors to Walton County and community identification and directional wayfinding signs in south Walton County. The project is the culmination of four years' work by council staff and consultants.
The signs are similar in appearance to the ones identifying the South Walton Annex and South Walton High School. Sonny Mares of the TDC said all signs are expected to be in place by the end of the week.
Edited
hmmmm......can't remember
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
That would be, um, entertaining. You're so weird...
I'd like to see some chin-up bars installed on the taller signs. That way, we could have a fitness trail circuit.
That would be, um, entertaining. You're so weird...
Moderator
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
This harkens back to the days when I was a little kid when there used to be a wall of billboards where 331 dead ended into 98. We called it our barometer because, inevitably, when the "wall" reached a certain height, a hurricane or TS would level the whole shootin' match. Maybe that will apply once again?!
No, I think they are designed like all the new condos in PCB and Destin. That is when a hurricane comes along the center(s) blow out leaving the larger surrounding structure in place. :funn:
This harkens back to the days when I was a little kid when there used to be a wall of billboards where 331 dead ended into 98. We called it our barometer because, inevitably, when the "wall" reached a certain height, a hurricane or TS would level the whole shootin' match. Maybe that will apply once again?!
Moderator
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
Additionally, the height of the sign will cause it to go over a car, if hit, rather than through the window; however, I'm guessing that they didn't consider that. My guess is that the height allows an unobstructed view through it...
Okay, the other half has informed me that the reason behind the bolts at the bottom are so that the top if hit by a car will snap off rather than messing up the foundation.
Additionally, the height of the sign will cause it to go over a car, if hit, rather than through the window; however, I'm guessing that they didn't consider that. My guess is that the height allows an unobstructed view through it...
Beach Fanatic
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities [title changed]
This is incorrect. An EAL list includes charges to be paid at that time. It does not include upcoming projects. They would not be in an EAL until work had been performed not in advance.
From the Nov 13 WalCo BBC meeting, the Expenditure Approval List (EAL) included:
Tourist Dev. Council
$ 493,453.67
I think this includes the signs, but it not all costs of signs, if I correctly recall. The minutes don't include the itemized breakout which was actually discussed at the meeting.
This is incorrect. An EAL list includes charges to be paid at that time. It does not include upcoming projects. They would not be in an EAL until work had been performed not in advance.
SoWal Expert
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities
Thanks for the correction. I was editing my post while you were typing yours.
Thanks for the correction. I was editing my post while you were typing yours.
Beach Fanatic
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities
Those signs look like a Large Sponge Bob Square Pants for the back. The 20 footers. I am amazed.
Those signs look like a Large Sponge Bob Square Pants for the back. The 20 footers. I am amazed.
SoWal Expert
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities
I had resigned myself to the new (notice I did NOT say improved) signs, telling myself that consistent and noticeable signage was a necessary evil for all the out of towners.
Then I got all riled up again when I went for a bike ride and realized they were 1) inaccurate 2) so high off the ground that you can't see them from your vehicle when you're close enough to read the printing!
Seriously, some of the signs are so far off the ground that an SUV driving past is quite a bit shorter than the BOTTOM of the sign.
I had resigned myself to the new (notice I did NOT say improved) signs, telling myself that consistent and noticeable signage was a necessary evil for all the out of towners.
Then I got all riled up again when I went for a bike ride and realized they were 1) inaccurate 2) so high off the ground that you can't see them from your vehicle when you're close enough to read the printing!
Seriously, some of the signs are so far off the ground that an SUV driving past is quite a bit shorter than the BOTTOM of the sign.
Edited
Beach Fanatic
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities
No problem. Now get out there and do those chin-ups
Thanks for the correction. I was editing my post while you were typing yours.
No problem. Now get out there and do those chin-ups
Beach Fanatic
Re: New signs on 30A designating communities
What is the area called in between Watercolors and Grayton beach? There is no sign.
What is the area called in between Watercolors and Grayton beach? There is no sign.
SoWal Expert
Re: Poll: What do you think of the new signs on 30-A?
Thanks for posting the informative article. So is it correct that we can expect a crapload more signs, similar in nature, but smaller, all along the Timpoochee Trail in the near future?
Thanks for posting the informative article. So is it correct that we can expect a crapload more signs, similar in nature, but smaller, all along the Timpoochee Trail in the near future?
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