STAFF REPORT

Operations Committee, December 6, 2007

Purchase and Installation of Sister Cities Signs (PWUT08-09)
Consideration for approval of the purchase and installation of Sister Cities Signs at various gateways into Cary

Speaker:  Mr. Mike Bajorek

From:  Mike Bajorek, Interim Director of Public Works & Utilities

Prepared by:  Bob Bilodeau, Operations Division Manager - Public Works & Utilities

Approved by:  William B. Coleman, Jr., Town Manager

Approved by:  Benjamin T. Shivar, Assistant Town Manager

The Sister Cities Association of Cary seeks to promote global understanding, economic development, and cultural exchanges.  The Association has requested signage identifying our sister cities be installed to aid in the promotion of their program.  Currently, we have four (4) sister cities: Le Touquet, France; Hsinchu City, Taiwan; County Meath, Ireland; and Markham, Ontario, Canada.

The locations identified below for sign installation are considered gateway entrances into Cary and would provide good visibility.  Staff has discussed the sign and the locations with the Chair and Vice Chair of the Sister Cities Commission and received a favorable endorsement.  The sign will be 24” x 30” (the size of a speed limit sign).

Kildaire Farm Road approaching 1010

Penny Road near the intersection of 1010 Road

Chapel Hill Road approaching Fairbanks Road

Chapel Hill Road approaching Trinity Road

Cary Towne Boulevard coming off the freeway approaching Maynard Road

North Harrison Avenue approaching Weston Parkway

Aviation Parkway near Lake Crabtree

Walnut Street approaching Dillard Drive

Green Level West Road approaching Hwy #55

Old Apex Road approaching Cary Parkway

A proposed sample of the sign is included.

One potential drawback to the installation of the sister cities signs is the number of signs that are placed in close proximity of these major gateways.  A survey of these gateways reveal in many instances there are 8 signs welcoming visitors to Cary. These signs include: city limits/town wide speed limit, Bicycle Friendly Community, and Fit Community.  In addition, when there is a major intersection close to the gateway which is often the case, there is a signal ahead/street name ahead sign and a C-Tran/TTA bus stop sign.  Some citizens have called the current situation “visual clutter”.

Fiscal Impact:  The cost to purchase and install each sign is $210 for a total of $2,100.  Funds are available in the Operations Divisions FY 2008 operating budget. Staff anticipates the signs will have to be replaced every three (3) years due to the special colors.

Staff Recommendation:  Staff recommends that Council approve the design of the Sister Cities Sign and the installation locations.