City Council approves Ellet Sign Company bid for park signage project

The University Heights City Council made significant strides in enhancing community signage during their meeting on March 3, 2025, by approving a bid from Ellet Sign Company for the Phase 2 city signage project. The contract, valued at $72,006.48, will see new signs installed at Purpose Park and the Susan K. Enfield Gazebo, with the goal of improving visibility and branding for these community landmarks.

Mayor and council members expressed confidence in Ellet Sign Company, noting their familiarity with the city's branding and previous successful projects. The council received a letter from Gina Gerken of Guide Studio, which managed the bidding process and confirmed that Ellet was the lowest and best bidder among two submissions.

However, discussions highlighted concerns regarding the electrical work necessary for the signs, which was not included in Ellet's bid. Council members raised questions about how to ensure that electrical power would be available for the signs once installed. The mayor acknowledged the need for coordination with an electrician and suggested that the administration would seek bids for this work separately.

The urgency of completing the project before the pool opens for the summer season was a recurring theme. Council members emphasized the importance of having the signs ready by Memorial Day weekend, aligning with the community's expectations for the upcoming swim season. While some members expressed hesitation about moving forward without a complete plan for the electrical work, others argued that delaying the sign fabrication could hinder the project's overall timeline.

Ultimately, the council voted to accept the bid from Ellet Sign Company, with a commitment to address the electrical component in subsequent meetings. The decision reflects the council's ongoing efforts to enhance community spaces and improve public amenities, ensuring that residents have clear and attractive signage to guide them to local attractions. The next steps will involve confirming the electrical arrangements and ensuring that the project stays on track for timely completion.