Entry and Wayfinding Signs

Open space sign installation across all open space preserves is complete. A total of 767 signs of six different types were installed to assist visitors along designated roads and trails:

• Entry signs: 216
• Notice board signs: 36
• Primary signs: 37
• Secondary signs: 67
• Tertiary signs: 90
• Wayfinding signs: 537

The Marin County Open Space District (MCOSD) installed new entry and wayfinding signs across all 34 county open space preserves. Parks staff  put in several hundred signs across a wide range of terrain. The signs convey information about directional guidance, designated usage, and resource protection. The new signs include wayfinding maps, notices, rules and regulations, and a place to leave lost items found on roads and trails. Over time, rangers will monitor sign conditions and report the need for repairs or replacements, so the sign system is maintained.

The work on this project continued through the COVID-19 shelter-in-place. The final phase of work has focused on tertiary sign posts along roads and trails, and at directional junctures.

The sign project was a multi-year, multi-disciplinary effort. The team included professionals in graphic design and communications, landscape architecture, cartography, materials, fabrication, and installation. Because existing signage was outdated or in some places non-existent, the project was a comprehensive rebuild that required:

• Confirming accuracy of road and trail maps
• Cataloging sign locations
• Creating a graphic design system and style guide for signs
• Prototyping and testing signs for readability and durability
• Manufacturing signs
• Siting and installing hundreds of signs

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.