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Ocean Shores planning commissioners press for clearer public-restroom signage and QR wayfinding
Summary
Ocean Shores Planning Commission members discussed gaps in downtown public-restroom access on Oct. 20, pressing staff to develop clearer signage, interim QR-code wayfinding, and a plan for additional facilities.
Ocean Shores Planning Commission members discussed gaps in downtown public-restroom access on Oct. 20, pressing staff to develop clearer signage, interim QR-code wayfinding, and a plan for additional facilities. The commission noted a Google search currently shows two public restrooms (across from Shiloh and at the state park) and that restrooms at community parks and North Bay exist but are not convenient to the business corridor.
Commissioners and speakers said businesses routinely refuse restroom use by noncustomers and suggested an interim digital solution: a city-maintained list reachable by QR code that visitors could scan when turned away, with the code directing users to the nearest public restroom. Commissioners also discussed potential permanent sites for new restrooms, including city parking behind Bennett—s and adjacent to the convention center, but said construction would require funding and time.
Funding options were raised. Commissioners said Lodging Tax Advisory Committee (LTAC) funds may be used for renovation but noted the commission did not submit an LTAC application in the current cycle, meaning any LTAC-funded restroom work would likely wait until the next grant cycle. No formal motion to allocate funds or select a site was made; commissioners characterized the conversation as direction to explore options and to bring more details back to a future meeting.
Commissioners asked staff to inventory all existing public restrooms and to work with the city administrator and mayor on short-term signage and QR-code wayfinding. They identified the need for clear road signage directing visitors to restrooms and for a consolidated public listing on the city website. The commission did not vote on new construction, funding, or specific sign text at the Oct. 20 meeting.
The commission agreed to continue the restroom discussion at a later meeting after staff compiles a restroom inventory and potential funding paths.
