Gateway Signs Update and Direction on Illumination Options

As part of the Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency’s (FPRA) comprehensive wayfinding program, seven new gateway entrance signs are being installed at key entry points throughout the city. Each sign has been designed to accommodate illumination, providing an opportunity to enhance visibility and create a stronger visual presence after dark.

Staff is seeking direction from the FPRA Board on preferred illumination options so that final pricing and contract modifications can be prepared. The goal is to balance aesthetics, long-term maintenance, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

To move forward, staff evaluated the following illumination options:

• Option 1 – No Illumination:
  The gateway signs would remain as fabricated and installed without lighting. This option allows completion of the project at the current cost but limits nighttime visibility and overall presence of the signs after dark.

• Option 2 – Solar Illumination:
  Each sign would be equipped with solar-powered lighting units installed by the existing sign contractor through a change order. This approach provides a sustainable, energy-efficient solution that requires no electrical connections. However, the visibility of solar panels and dependence on adequate sunlight should be considered. The estimated cost is approximately $11,335 per sign.

• Option 3 – Hybrid Illumination (1 Solar, 6 Hard-Wired):
  This option would utilize solar lighting for one location where electrical power access is limited and traditional hard-wired connections for the remaining six signs. Installation would be coordinated between the sign contractor and an electrical contractor (via FPUA piggyback contract). This approach provides the best balance between aesthetics, performance, and long-term reliability. The estimated cost will be finalized once the preferred option is selected.

 

Policy 10.4 The Fort Pierce Redevelopment Agency shall use the ‘brand’ to develop unique features in the Community Redevelopment Area (e.g. wayfinding signs, paver patterns/styles, shade structures, transit stops, amenities, etc.) and incorporate these items into the built environment.

Staff recommends that the board provide direction on the preferred approach. Final cost estimates and contract modifications will be prepared for Board approval at a subsequent meeting.
 

Take no action at this time, resulting in the installation of the gateway signs without illumination.

Sara Delgado, Redevelopment Specialist

Community and Economic Development Director
Engineering Department
Don Bell Signs