City Proposes Multilingual Welcome Signs to Enhance Inclusivity

During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed a proposal to install welcome signs at Buddy Attic Park and Trom Hills Park, featuring messages in ten different languages, including English. The initiative, spearheaded by Rick Gransom, chair of the Community Relations Advisory Board (CRAB), aims to create a more inclusive environment for residents and visitors who may not speak English.

The proposal originated from a suggestion to place a welcome sign at Greenbelt Lake, which was expanded to include additional parks to enhance community outreach. Gransom emphasized the importance of making everyone feel welcome, stating that the signs would serve as a simple yet effective way to communicate inclusivity.

The discussion included considerations for the materials used for the signs, with suggestions leaning towards durable, low-maintenance options like composite materials made from recycled products. The idea of involving the arts advisory board in a design contest was also proposed to ensure the signs are visually appealing and representative of the community's spirit.

Council members raised various points during the discussion, including the need for careful consideration of the sign's size and design to avoid overwhelming viewers with too much information. Concerns were also voiced regarding accessibility for individuals with visual impairments and cognitive disabilities, highlighting the importance of thoughtful design in public signage.

In addition to the welcome signs, the council discussed the potential for integrating park rules and additional information into a comprehensive wayfinding strategy for the city. This would include addressing the condition of existing signage, which some members noted was becoming faded and less effective.

The council agreed to further explore the proposal, with plans to refer it to the parks and recreation advisory board and the arts advisory board for additional input. The initiative reflects the city's commitment to fostering an inclusive community and enhancing the overall visitor experience in public spaces.