Innisfail moves ahead with final wayfinding sign phase

Full three-phase project in Innisfail delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic

Wayfinding signage along Innisfail's westside Lakewood Drive from an earlier phase of the three-phase project. The recently approved third phase will focus on the town's trail system and parks. Johnnie Bachusky/MVP Staff

INNISFAIL – After almost a four-year delay the third and last stage of the town’s Wayfinding Signage Program is finally going ahead.

At Innisfail council’s regular meeting on Feb. 13, a motion was unanimously passed to approve the award of the Wayfinding Phase 3 contract to Edmonton-based Hi Signs | The Fath Group for $124,439.76.

“The last phase was delayed as we got into COVID. We were being somewhat cautious with our budget and concerned as the start of that we didn't know how things were going to turn out,” said Mayor Jean Barclay. “We are so glad to see it moving forward.”

The first phase of the wayfinding sign project went ahead in early 2019 with 17 new modern signs going up at several locations around town at a cost of $128,210.

Phase 2 went ahead later in 2019 at a cost of more than $263,000.

The first two phases were designed to direct visitors to any of the town's many facilities, from the Innisfail Twin Arena to the public library, as well as the curling rink, library and historical village.

The third phase is focused on the local trail system and parks.

At council’s Feb. 13 meeting, Steven Kennedy, director of operations for the Town of Innisfail, said Phase 3 of the Wayfinding Signage Program includes the installation of three primary signs, 11 secondary and three tertiary.

Council was told they will be located at Napoleon Sports Fields, Centennial Park, and next to the McDonald’s restaurant near Main Street.

“I think the signs are very aesthetically pleasing, and I hope it helps our visitors find their way around,” said Barclay. “I think this last phase is very important for trail systems and parks to get wayfinding signage in those places. I think that's certainly been the missing link to this project.”

Kennedy said in his report that administration will be working on an update to the community’s Trail Master Plan, which will provide recommendations for next steps for the town’s wayfinding initiative.

He told council the total project cost is anticipated to be $184,471.74, including $127,439.76 for construction, $24,288 for engineering and testing, $20,000.00 for landscaping and $12,743.98 for contingency.

His report stated the anticipated total cost is under the budgeted amount of $263,584. The project will be funded by the town’s Recreation & Culture Reserve.