Written By David Gomez
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - A municipal initiative aimed at improving navigation and strengthening community identity is moving ahead, following an update presented to council on March 18.
CAO Amanda Gubbels outlined recent progress on the wayfinding and community signage project, confirming that the procurement phase has been completed. “Stempski Kelly Associates was selected as both the highest scoring and lowest cost compliant bid at $24,950, which is under budget,” she said. The project remains within the $30,000 approved allocation and is partially funded through external support, with “50% supported by the Rural Ontario Development funding that we’ve received.”
Gubbels also highlighted the potential advantages of working with a consultant familiar with similar regional work. She noted that the firm “just recently completed the Middlesex County tourism signage strategy,” creating “some good opportunity value added for regional alignment.” The strategy is intended to guide the design and placement of signage across the municipality, helping improve wayfinding for residents and visitors while reinforcing a cohesive visual identity.
The next phase will focus on developing the strategy itself. “Work will begin in the coming weeks, including engagement with council and the community,” Gubbels said, adding that the final document is expected to be completed by the summer. She explained that the strategy will also support future funding applications, particularly for the installation of physical signage infrastructure.
Mayor Allan Mayhew welcomed the opportunity for council involvement as the project progresses. “I like the idea of council’s engagement on that. It’s good,” he said, also pointing to the benefits of aligning with county-level initiatives.
With no questions raised during discussion, council approved the recommendation to receive the report and directed staff to proceed with implementation in line with the approved budget and procurement process. The motion was carried unanimously.
