Lago Vista committee narrows wayfinding signage plan; asks vendor for mockups

The Lago Vista Economic Development Advisory Committee discussed a proposed wayfinding signage program and asked staff to return with mockups, a short list of destinations and permitting guidance.

Committee members said residents prefer a ‘‘small‑town’’ look and asked the city to prioritize a limited number of destinations per sign so the finished product would be readable and durable. Members discussed materials, maintenance, permitting on state roads, and possible cost‑sharing with private attractions or property owners.

The discussion focused on three near‑term decisions: (1) narrow a list of four to six destinations the committee wants to see on individual signs; (2) identify initial sign locations so the vendor can prepare size/visibility studies and mockups; and (3) confirm permitting needs for signs on or near 1431, where Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) approval may be required.

Eric Zeno, staff liaison, said ACC and other partners are being consulted on placement and acknowledged TxDOT permitting will affect some locations. Zeno also flagged maintenance and staffing needs if the city installs signs that require upkeep.

Committee members proposed starting with three locations that would produce six sign faces total (two directions at each location) and suggested initial clusters should include the Lohman/1431 intersection, the John/Lohman intersection and a third location at Boggy Ford/Lohman. Members asked that National Sign Plaza or another vendor provide illustrations showing how four to six destinations would appear on a sign and what material options (wood look, painted steel, phenolic panels) would cost and require for maintenance.

Allison Sargent, executive director of the Northlake Travis Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber can help coordinate business interest and outreach and offered to pursue possible sponsor funding or in‑kind support.

The committee sought clarity about private attractions (wineries, the archery range, wedding venues, Balcones/Arkansas Bend) that are not city property but could be shown on regional wayfinding signs if owners agree; members discussed asking property owners or associations to share costs and any legal limits on using city reserves for advertising private businesses.

Next steps: staff will compile a draft list of four to six destinations, ask the sign company to prepare illustrations and cost options, and return to the committee. The committee asked staff to confirm TxDOT permitting requirements before finalizing sign locations.

The committee did not take a formal vote during the discussion and did not adopt a final design or funding plan.