Iolans have an opportunity to sound off on three potential signage concepts for the community identity component of Vision Iola.
The three concepts will be discussed at 7 p.m. Thursday at the North Community Building, where the public will get an opportunity to vote on its favorite de-sign.
Those unable to attend Thursday’s meeting still may vote online at www.visioniola.com after Thursday until March 2.
Photos for the three concepts already have been posted on the Vision Iola Web site and welcome comment.
Once the comments and votes are gathered, the chosen concept will be posted online and included in the final Vision Iola report to be given to the city.
Included with the report will be information on potential funding sources to pay for the new signage.
THE FIRST signage concept plays symbolically on Iola’s status as the Allen County seat, as well as highlighting the community’s large city square, according to the Vision Iola Web site. Its logo features the word “Welcome” surrounded by small blocks as if it was the center of the square.
The concept also sports subtle shades of blue and gold in recognition of Iola High School’s team colors.
THE SECOND concept contains a streetscape scene in front of a row of buildings like those situated along Madison Avenue, an homage to the city’s architectural history and Iola’s desire for healthy living.
The second concept’s colors feature more earth tones.
THE THIRD AND final design is more progressive and modern in style, with little ornamentation and simple fonts.
The colors again feature plenty of blue and gold. Tall and predominant, the signage for the third concept would be more visible to passersby than the first two.
COMMUNITY identity is one of three main components of the Vision Iola planning process.
Organizers from Thrive Allen County and Landworks Studio of Olathe also will look in the coming months at better developing Iola’s downtown business district and the city’s parks and trails system, including sidewalks.
