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Commission endorses moving forward with revised bronze Route 66 marker and study of supplemental interpretive signs
Summary
The commission endorsed proceeding with a bronze Route 66 marker design for placement at Big Chief Roadhouse (with requested map and headline revisions) and asked staff to study additional interpretive or wayfinding options for other corridor locations; staff and vendor discussed design, QR-code options, and estimated costs (bronze markers north of $10,000).
The commission reviewed alternative designs for a Route 66 historic marker produced by Arch Engraving and heard from Bill Collier of Arch Engraving about materials, costs and installation. Staff recommended placing an initial bronze marker at Big Chief Roadhouse, with map context on the marker's reverse and an optional QR code for more detailed maps.
Bill Collier described the marker as a double-sided bronze casting with post and hardware; at the most recent pricing he estimated "just north of $10,000" for a single bronze marker with post and hardware, while a more elaborate graphics and base option could cost north of $15,000. Commissioners debated whether the marker's map needed clearer reference points and suggested adding a small "you are here" star and a headline reading "Historic Route 66" on the front.
Commissioners also discussed lower-cost alternatives for supplemental interpretive panels (steel frames with a graphic panel similar to park interpretive signs) and the potential to bundle purchases to reduce per-unit costs. One commissioner urged seeking a package discount if the city purchased multiple signs; the vendor said discounts are possible if artwork changes are minimal.
After discussion, the commission moved to endorse staff's recommendation to proceed with the bronze marker design subject to the requested revisions (add headline on the front and a key/context on the back) and separately directed staff to analyze additional interpretive sign options for corridor endpoints and return with cost estimates. Both motions passed by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will work with the vendor on the requested map and headline changes, verify final pricing and installation approach with Wildwood maintenance staff, and return with a cost analysis for supplemental interpretive/welcome signs.
