R2003-101 AUTHORIZING AGREEMENT - Laserfiche WebLink

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ECONOMIC AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT MEMORANDUM No. 03-59 July 2, 2003 TO: Mayor Paul Osborne and City Council Members FROM: Steve G ity Manager A. J. Krie e , conomic and Urban Development Department Steven J. an teenhuyse, Long Range Planning Manag SUBJECT: Agreement: Wayfinding Study by Guidance Pathways Systems, Inc. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the contract with Guidance Pathways Systems (GPS) of Springfield, Massachusetts to complete planning, design, general specifications and technical services concerning a wayfinding sign system for Decatur. The total not-to-exceed contract amount is $25,000, of which eighty percent will be reimbursed from the State. The project cost is $21,750, while consultant expenses will not exceed $3,250. The scope of services includes determination of the best locations for wayfinding signs, development of a prototype sign design, and cost estimates for sign installations. BACKGROUND: In March 2001,the City engaged GPS to do a Streetscape Information and Sign Assessment for Decatur. GPS found that Decatur would benefit from a consistent system of signs designed to guide the motoring and walking public. These "wayfinding" systems have been very successful and beneficial in both large and small cities to help visitors find their way around the city and take away a positive impression from their visit. Landmarks and institutions such as the Civic Center, Millikin, the zoo, and the Children's Museum, among others, benefit from consistent signage that efficiently guides visitors to their locations. Residents also find them helpful as reference points. This Wayfinding Study is an element in the City's corridor planning effort as well as the ongoing update to the Comprehensive Plan. The consultant's Scope of Services is attached. Also attached are color renderings by GPS of proposed wayfinding signs that could potentially be designed and installed at appropriate locations in Decatur. These designs are not final and are intended to foster discussion of the kinds of wayfinding signage that would best serve the City. POTENTIAL OBJECTION: Staff is not awaze of any objections to this study. INPUT FROM OTHER SOURCES: A steering committee consisting of representatives from the Convention and Visitor's Bureau,the Downtown Decatur Council, Millikin University, and Keep Macon County Beautiful has been formed to advise the consultants. The committee will meet with the consultants at the beginning of their visit to learn more about wayfinding systems and provide guidance and context to the consultants.