Page 27 - High Knob Master Plan

WEAKNESSES
> Some existing Green DOT signage are placed beyond the typical > decision point for motorists.
> Destinations are treated differently and use a different sign > system and methodology based on whether they are a community
No community-branded wayfinding signage has been implemented in any community or their respective downtowns.
Localized branding is limited to gateway signage, kiosks, trail signage, and banners.
EXISTING GUIDELINES
Existing guidelines are also considered as part of the wayfinding assessment. Any new wayfinding signage needs to meet local, state and federal guidelines. Existing guidance include:
The Manual for Universal Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) is the federal guideline for a safe and functional wayfinding system. In relation to this report, these recommendations cover sign placement, materials, content, and design considerations as well as many other factors.
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has its own sign guidelines that reinforce the MUTCD as well as stipulate recommendations for specific “Standard Highway Signs.”
The US Forest Service guidelines for directional signs, gateways, and trail signage are designed to cover all the assets within their defined territories.
Other destinations and localities may also have their own wayfinding and branding standards that would need to be met for any wayfinding within their jurisdictions.
destination or recreational destination.
> Recreational assets are listed on Brown DOT signs only near key decision points with very few, if any, distances used or directional confirmation signs prior to those decision points reassuring motorists they are heading in the proper direction.
> Sign clutter is a problem as well as inconsistencies in sign sizes, arrows, content, mounting hardware and location. This is very common in communities that have not done wayfinding plans so is not unique to the High Knob region.
> Some community gateways signs are out of date, need maintenance, or do not utilize the most current branding for that community.
> Some trail signage on publicly managed properties show significant signs of weathering and disrepair and need to be replaced. These signs, however, are not part of a regional wayfinding system but instead are internal to that respective destination or property.
> Much of the signage for property managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Virginia State Parks are based on agency design and guidelines and cannot be modified to be part of a regional system.
> There is no branding or personality to the current signage, which are limited to Green and Brown DOT signs.
> While most signage is in good condition, some signs have faded or peeling paint, have been hit by vehicles and not repaired, or are covered by weeds and vegetation.
HIGH KNOB REGIONAL INITIATIVE
CHAPTER 5: WAYFINDING 27