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Walla Walla County approves new signage plans for county buildings to improve wayfinding
Summary
Commissioners approved signage concepts for county facilities, including Concept A at 310 West Poplar and Concept C (vinyl letters) for monument signs; board discussed durability, budget impacts and long‑term digital sign options before passing motions unanimously.
The Walla Walla County Board of Commissioners on April 20 approved a series of signage improvements intended to improve public wayfinding to county facilities.
Staff presented visual concepts and cost estimates for multiple locations. For 310 West Poplar the board approved Concept A (vinyl lettering and framed signs) after commissioners raised concerns about durability and the possibility that tenant changes could require sign updates. For 500 West Main the board approved a pedestal sign (Concept B) clarifying parking versus building operation hours to reduce public confusion about office hours.
Commissioners then considered two options for existing monument signs—Concept C (vinyl/translucent lettering) and Concept D (backlit Lexan panels). Staff cautioned that Lexan panels and backlit solutions have higher upfront costs and require future LED upgrades; a full digital reader board was discussed but staff said it would be significantly more expensive (roughly six figures). Given cost, maintenance and electrical constraints, commissioners favored Concept C as a cost‑effective interim option and approved it.
One commissioner asked whether signage work should be packaged to understand total building‑fund impacts; staff said each building was presented individually and that sign work would be charged to the building fund. Commissioners noted the building fund balance and the fund’s role in covering such improvements.
Motions to approve Concept A for 310 West Poplar, Concept B for 500 West Main, and Concept C for the monument signs were each seconded and passed 3–0.
Next steps: staff will prepare purchase orders and proceed with design and installation as approved; commissioners asked staff to consider modular or easily updated sign materials when feasible to reduce rework costs if departments relocate.
