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Commissioners approve amendment to allow small '579 Trail' markers to promote agritourism
Summary
The board approved an amendment to the county signage policy to permit small branded markers for the 579 Trail to promote agritourism and local businesses; engineering will vet placement and safety, and the signs are intended to be minimally intrusive.
The Hunterdon County Board of Commissioners approved an amendment May 5 to the county’s signage policy to allow small branded markers for the 579 Trail and, in the future, similar recognized areas. Marcus Saug presented the proposal, saying the signs are intended to promote agritourism and help visitors find rural attractions when GPS is unavailable.
Saug described the markers as small, brand-oriented signs distinct from official wayfinding plates and said engineering would determine safe placement. “It is going to be a small sign,” Saug said, adding the county will not allow unchecked signage and the engineering process will prevent undue distraction.
Commissioners discussed a vetting process to avoid “sign city” and emphasized that engineering and safety standards will govern siting. One commissioner asked whether the program would cost the county; staff indicated the signs should not be expensive and would follow the county’s safety and permit requirements.
The board moved and voted to adopt the amendment; supporters said the markers should help build a brand for the route, encourage visits, and drive traffic to participating businesses while minimizing visual clutter.
The approved changes allow the county to pilot the 579 Trail markers subject to engineering review; staff said additional administrative procedures would define exactly who can apply to place a marker and under what conditions.
