Entry and Wayfinding Signs

New open space signs enhance visitor safety and resource preservation.

Objectives

  • Welcoming and Friendly Experience
    • Optimize visitor enjoyment.
    • Consistent, positive messaging.
    • Visually cohesive system, easily identifiable as Marin County open space.
    • Exhibit best practices for outdoor signage, including "universal design" principles.
  • Relevant and Timely Information
    • Ease wayfinding navigation and direct paths of travel.
    • Support safety, especially on multi-use roads and trails.
    • Clearly communicate designated trail use, preserve rules, and code changes.
    • Educate about natural resource preservation and protection.
  • Sustainability and Durability
    • Use most durable but least toxic materials possible.
    • Use materials that can best withstand adverse weathering conditions, including strong sunlight and salty, coastal fog.
    • Optimize design and materials so signs remain clear and readable in variety of environments.
    • Develop maintenance system to track the need for any changes or repairs over time.

Features

  • Over 760 new entry and wayfinding signs installed across all County preserves.
  • Materials such as redwood and metal chosen for longevity and durability in a wide range of terrain. 
  • Sign locations carefully selected to optimize visibility for trip planning and navigation. 
  • Fonts and colors selected for readability in natural environment.
  • Notice boards display information about natural resources, safety, and more.
  • Trail use designation and rules clearly displayed.

Timeline

  • 2013: Sign planning process commenced with Measure A funds.
  • 2014-2016: Needs and current sign inventory; draft design and schematics developed with internal interdisciplinary teams.
  • May 2016: First primary entry sign prototypes installed; stakeholder feedback meetings.
  • July 2016: Preserve entry sign designs presented at Parks and Open Space Commission meeting.
  • 2017: Modified designs; cataloged and mapped locations; finalized preserve maps; began installation of secondary entry signs.
  • April 2017: First wayfinding post prototypes installed.
  • 2018-2019: Modifications as needed, sign production, fabrication, begin installation of tertiary entry signs. Continued installation of entry signs and wayfinding posts.
  • 2019: Development of sign inventory database; as of August 2019, 566 entry signs and wayfinding posts installed.
  • 2019-2020: Install additional 120 wayfinding posts.
  • 2021: Installation completed.