P2P_Moodboard_Presentation_R2.pdf

Wheat Ridge Greenbelt & Peaks to Plains Trail

SIGNAGE MOODBOARD

PRESENTATION

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CONTENTS

MSP Overview

Wayfinding Signage Set Examples

Main Intersectional Sign Mock-Up

Individual Mile-Marker Sign Mock-Up

Sign and Material Options

Color Combinations

Hand Painted Wayfinding on Pathway

Icon Use

Possible Add On’s

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Before we cover the inspiration that went into this moodboard proposal, it might be good to begin with the MSP report. The MSP identified ten factors to summarize the conditions of the WRG signage in 2004:

1. No written rationale, sign standards or planning process exists to guide signage decisions design, development and placement.

clutter some parts of the WRG.

9. Street signs along the WRG and road-like striping on the paved sections give the trail a transportation corridor look. Part of the original trail design, these signs work best for the multiple use and paved sections of the trail.

10. A staff-generated sign inventory exists and is fairly current.

MSP Overview:

In comparing the 2004 conditions (pictures included in MSP) and current conditions of the WRG signage system, some of the above 10 factors remain consistent, while some have been changed or improved.

The MSP found that most existing signs at the time were created and placed as needed and in reaction to a newly identified need, problem, conflict, regulation, or other such stimulus (Factor #1.) “The resulting mish mash of signs does not convey a planned signage effort. A variety of sign materials, sizes, designs, and mounting systems are currently in use. The most common are metal sign blanks with vinyl letters/graphics made by the Public Works Department at the request of the Parks and Recreation Department staff, off-the-shelf signs, vertical Carsonitetm markers, metal framed kiosks with locking glass doors, and routed wood.” (ARM,2004)

The current consistency of sign materials, sizes, designs, and mounting systems shows a vast improvement to 2004 conditions. Entrances and boundaries are now consistently signed (factor #2,) Entrances and key locations are named (Factor #3,) although Otis Trailhead, for example, does not have a sign. Speed limit signs are all a matching, standardized size. Trailhead signs for “Wheat Ridge Greenbelt Clear Creek Trail” are matching brown with white lettering and “Clear Creek Trail” signs with directional arrows are matching green with white lettering. Dog waste station signs have also been standardized and match across the WRG. Some kiosks are in need of repairs or updating, but also show an improvement from 2004 (Factor #6.)

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Pictured here are two examples of wayfinding signage. These examples show how typical messaging and call-outs can be scaled across different signs and markings.

Our suggestion, is to showcase the updated signage in a similar fashion to the Bronx River Greenway option on page 5. There we see how information can be showcased cohesively through a strong color palette, iconography and creek maps.

Wayfinding Signage Examples:

Pictured to the left is a mocked-up example of what our main signs could look like at every main intersectional entrance in and out of the pathways (i.e. Anderson Park, Creekside Park, etc.). While there would be a few more elements to consider, this gives us a hypothetical visual to better envision the direction we are proposing for the new sign systems project.

The main intersectional wayfinding signs will consist of an I-beam implanted in the ground vertically. The space inside the I-beam is where we will fix the individual wayfinding signs. The individual signs will be color coded and printed on materials that are durable and weather resistant (see next page for a few different material options). The individual wayfinding signage will make it easy to install as well as maintain in the event of natural weathering or vandalism.

We’re proposing that the design leads with the City logo on top to clearly identify which portion of the state the trail users are in. The city logo is then followed by a section identifying the P2P trail, followed by specific directional information relative to the trail at each point. Ending with a large simplified map and simple iconography callouts for amenities that each particular area might offer.

Pictured to the right is a mocked-up example of what our smaller individual mile-marker signs could look like in between the main intersectional entrance in and out of the trail (i.e. Anderson Park, Creekside Park, etc.).

These sub-wayfinding signage options are a way to indicate mile/half mile markers on the pathways. These sub-wayfinding signs could also be used to gang-up other signage like speed limits, Jeffco Bikeway Trail medallions as well as P2P medallions.

Main Intersectional Sign Mock Up Example:

Individual Mile-Marker Sign Mock Up Example:

Included in the new MSP is the introduction of the Peaks to Plains Trail signs. To ensure the existing wayfinding signage (Factor #5) has improved as far as consistency, we’ll want to find a cohesive way to curate and direct the different trail ways for their respective users.

Pictured in the example to the left (intersectional wayfinding signs) we see how we can use color coded sections, that include clear concise iconography and simplified map systems to guide the users along.

Peaks to Plains Signage

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HDPE (high-density polyethylene):

HDPE is a solid plastic that can stand up to graffiti. Due to the solid construction, HDPE won’t endure any damage to its exterior. It’s impact resistant, and it won’t crack due to excessive hits. The material won’t even become infested with mold and mildew because it can stand up to the humidity and moisture that’s common in restrooms.

Materials from which this type of sign is constructed include polycarbonate, steel, and die-cast aluminum, all highly regarded for their durability. Ideal for indoor or outdoor applications, vandal-proof exit signs may also be equipped to endure severe temperature shifts, exposure to wetness, and environmental changes.

Sign Materials Options:

Aluminum: Could be the most popular for both indoor and outdoor signs.

Pros: Lightweight, strong and durable, pliable, easy to print on, water-resistant, scratch proof, cost-effective, recyclable.

Cons: could be the metallic sheen, prone to denting, reflecting light might reduce visibility, cost more than some options.

Acrylic: Made by manufacturers from a methyl methacrylate monomer and is also sometimes called plexiglass. People love to use acrylic for illuminated signs because of the way the light can shine through it’s panels and sheets.

Pros: Sturdy and durable, won’t rust or corrode, water-resistant, chemical resistant, treat thermal properties, doesn’t create glare, resistant to UV.

Cons: often heavy and need additional anchors and connectors, prone to scratches and dents, difficult to repair, expensive.

Dibond: Best of both worlds. The unique material is an aluminum composite with a plastic polyethylene core, sandwiched between two aluminum sheets.

Pros: Long-lasting, durable, weather-resistant, waterproof and heat resistant, lightweight, easy to cut, shock resistant, non-corrosive.

Cons: Slightly less rigid than solid aluminum, relatively expensive, finishes can be costly, often have rough or sharp edges after being cut.

Alumalite: Another aluminum composite consists of several layers including a thicker core of ribbed or corrugated plastic. You can choose from different thicknesses that your sign company can cut into the right shape for you.

Pros: Long-lasting, lighter than solid aluminum, you can print on them with a variety of substances like paints, digital inks (both UV or solvent cured), screen-print inks, and pressure-sensitive vinyl. It’s also rigid and durable, cuts easy, weather, and water-resistant.

Cons: Thicker than aluminum and more expensive

Vinyl: An extremely versatile material that can be used as overlays to be applied as an alternative to traditional printing techniques.

Pros: Ideal for temporary or event signs, cheap, low maintenance, easy to install and remove, weather-resistant, lightweight, relatively fade-resistant and easy to clean.

Cons: Not as long-lasting, overlays cannot be reapplied once removed, not rigid, less durable and high-gloss vinyl surfaces can cause glare.

PVC: PVC is a great option for outdoor signs with many variations which can differ in thickness, durability, and weight.

Pros: Widely available, durable options, weather-resistant, water resistant, inexpensive and great for small cutouts as well as larger signs.

Cons: Heavier than other options like aluminum, prone to chips, and difficult to repair.

More information on these types of signs can be found here:

https://michigansignshops.com/ blog/best-sign-material-for-outdoor-signs/

Top Left: Aluminum Sign Left Middle: Acrylic Sign.

Bottom Left: Dibond Sign Bottom Left: Dibond Sign Top Right: HDPE Sign Bottom Right: Vinyl Sign

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As outlined in the Greenbelt Signage Inventory assessment, factor #9 recommends the continued use of painted signage and road-like striping on paved sections of trail.

Top Left: Image of current signage painted along the trail.

Top Right, Bottom Left, and Bottom Right: Example images of alternative floor wayfinding graphics.

Hand Painted Directional Wayfinding on Pathway

Proposed Color Combination Design:

Here we’re using white, black (as part of P2P), green (samples from city colors), and a light blue (sampled from Rooted in Fun brand color). This way the color coded signs will be easier to comprehend and follow for all trail users.

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Dog waste station:

Dog waste station signs have also been standardized and match across the WRG. We’ll try to find a good way to incorporate them into the new signage and posts.

Wheat Ridge Greenbelt call out:

As stated before, we may find a way to incorporate the greenbelt into the signage for our particular stretch in Wheat Ridge

Overpass signs:

Once a design system is identified, we’ll need to find a way to create overpass signs to identify the different cross streets that the trail and pathway cross over and/or under.

On this spread we see examples of different iconography use throughout several different signage types.

Spanning from information on way-finding, to rules, and park information, we can see simplified ways to convey information quickly and succinctly.

Our hope is to create a set of vector icons that can help to quickly communicate the different messaging for all of our trail users.

Possible Ad On’s

Icon Use

Marketing Team Contacts:

sclyde@ci.wheatridge.co.us | dmoore@ci.wheatridge.co.us jgallardo@ci.wheatridge.co.us | baltenburg@ci.wheatridge.co.us