Village favors 'station revival' concept for East Dundee gateway, asks refinements on color, placement and lighting

Consultants from Gary R. Weber Associates presented two preliminary sets of gateway and wayfinding concepts for downtown East Dundee on Dec. 16: a "Timber Works" concept that references lumberyard history, and a "Station Revival" concept with industrial/railroad influences. Jeff Cook and team listened to board preferences and identified options for materials, illumination and placement.

Board members expressed a general preference for the Station Revival family of elements, recommending a primary black‑and‑white palette with accent colors used sparingly and wayfinding signs mounted to the side of poles (rather than integrated into freestanding arches) for a more historic feel. Several trustees suggested the arch include a short top banner reading "East Dundee" with a secondary label such as "Historic District" or "Depot District" beneath it to aid readability for drivers. Members cautioned that the arch's final location should account for potential future reconfiguration of the River/Route 72 intersection so the banner design would not need to be rebuilt if alignment changes.

The board also discussed replacing the existing LED message board with a video screen for greater flexibility and easier maintenance; consultants and staff agreed to return with refined packages that include recommended materials, lighting options, and suggested placements for review before manufacturing and installation.