Re: Big blue signs in SoWal [merged poll]
I wrote Tracy Louthain a letter regarding the new signage two
days ago and the following is the response I received late
yesterday.
Thank you for your note. The wayfinding signage project began
in 2002 & 2004. These signs were installed at beach accesses. In
keeping a consistent look and feel this was the next phase of the project.
The signage program has been featured in local newspapers and the
Board of City Comm. Meetings. There has been ample time for the
community to provide positive feedback. I've included some frequently
asked questions below to help answer some of your questions.
What are the new blue signs we see being installed throughout
Walton County?
"How many signs will be installed?
A total of 49 signs will be installed.
Why did the TDC choose the design?
These signs were choosen to complement our existing beach
kiosk signs, which have proved to be durable and withstand the
harsh elements including salt air and high winds. The signs were
designed in conjunction with highway department design specifications.
The signs meet foot standards and are engineered to withstand up
to 130 mph winds.
Why are the signs so tall?
The signs were designed to meet Highway Department design
specifications. Some signs are taller to meet traffic safety
requirements. One Tuesday, January 15th, the TDC toured the
area with the county engineer to review the signs. It was
determined that the signs were installed to comply with the
AASHTO, road side design guide specifications. To lower the
directional sign would violate the specifications and create a
safety hazzard to traffic by blocking the "straight triangle"
requirements.
When will the project be complete?
Most of the signs will be installed by the end of January. There
are "4" signs that have to be re-designed due to underground
utilities that have prevented installation.
Why are my tax dollars going to pay for these signs?
The wayfinding signage program is paid for through tourist occupancy
tax and not local ad volorum taxes. The signs were installed to
serve our visitors by helping them find specific locations and beach
communities while supporting the TDC's marketing efforts in further
branding the destination and creating a sense of place when they
arrive.
The investment in the signs has been made and initial feedback from
our visitors has been positive.
We hope that the community will come to see the value that these
wayfinding signs provide to our visitors.
Sincerely,
Tracy