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Committee debates gateway signage for Wildwood after residents report unclear boundaries; motion to deny introduced
Summary
Committee discussed options and constraints for gateway signage marking Wildwood’s boundary, including MoDOT restrictions, cost estimates, and the prospect of replacing an existing sign; a member moved to deny further action and the motion awaits a second.
The committee considered a proposal to install more prominent gateway signage at key entrances to Wildwood after residents at a homeowners association meeting said it is unclear where the city begins when driving from Ellisville.
Chair introduced the item and turned discussion to Lee, who said the idea originated in the city’s master plan citizen oversight group. Staff initially considered placing signage on the pedestrian bridge but updated the memo after reviewing sign regulations that limit bridge-mounted fixtures.
Lee described that in other cities monument-style signage is sometimes integrated into existing retaining walls or placed at underpasses, but that a bridge-mounted solution is likely to face MoDOT review and potential denial. "Bridges, they do not allow any anything to be a fixed tool," Lee said when summarizing the agency guidance, and added that MoDOT could carry an application forward but expects strict structural and safety certification.
Staff noted practical constraints: MoDOT permits typically govern size and location within state right-of-way and, according to staff, MoDOT allows one sign per entrance; installing a new sign could require removal of the existing smaller welcome sign. Cost estimates discussed included prior custom wooden signs that were expensive and frequently struck by vehicles; staff said a small sign like the one pictured in the memo could cost $4,000 to $5,000, while a larger, bridge-attached structure would be substantially more and require structural attachment to the bridge.
Committee members raised concerns about cost and maintenance. One participant recalled a custom wooden sign that was repeatedly damaged and urged caution about committing funds. After discussion, a committee member moved to deny proceeding with the signage proposal; the chair asked for a second, but the transcript does not record one or a subsequent vote.
Next steps: the transcript records the motion to deny but no vote; staff may return with updated options, cost estimates, or a recommendation for alternative locations off MoDOT right-of-way.
