Napa Enhances Downtown Experience With New Wayfinding Signs For Pedestrians

Press release from the City of Napa:

NAPA, CA — In an effort to enrich the pedestrian experience and foster community connectivity, the City of Napa is undergoing the final phase of its wayfinding initiative — including the installation of pedestrian, parks, and parking garage signage. These projects bring about significant improvements to the City's navigational infrastructure.

The most recent highlight of the final phase was the installation of three new pedestrian wayfinding sign types, including 6-foot-tall pedestrian kiosks, directional and map signs. These signs are prominent landmarks designed not just for aesthetic appeal, but also to serve as essential wayfinding tools to help orient people within the city.

Located strategically based on pedestrian activity, the kiosks feature comprehensive location maps, including detailed instructions to guide pedestrians to areas such as the transit center and Oxbow Commons. The other two sign types, directional and map signs, are smaller signs that are attached to posts to be read at a pedestrian level around Downtown Napa. These smaller signs are crafted to direct people to various points of interest, creating a more intricate network of navigational aids for pedestrians exploring the vibrant city center.

But why pedestrian wayfinding? When we make our way through a highly-walkable environment we look for clues — landmark buildings, natural features, monuments, directories, street names, and even regulatory signs— all of which work together to make our experience meaningful. A wayfinding system is a contributor to this collection that makes walking through downtown understandable, approachable, and fun. Pedestrian wayfinding systems help people understand where they are, where the next big or small destination is located, and how long it will take to walk there. Residents can find new areas to explore, while newcomers can orient themselves to downtown. This creates a more inviting and improves the downtown experience for all, while simultaneously supporting the community goals outlined in the City of Napa’s Downtown Specific Plan.

These signs contribute to a more walkable and enjoyable urban environment by highlighting key destinations and offering a sense of arrival. Studies have shown that well-implemented wayfinding systems not only enhance the overall experience of a City, but also have positive effects on local businesses. Additionally, the new pedestrian signs help direct people to previously 'dark' or underutilized areas. By encouraging exploration of these areas, the initiative aims to breathe new life into other parts of the City, fostering a more inclusive and dynamic urban landscape.

Planning, creating and installing placemaking signs is a collective effort. The wayfinding initiative is made possible by funding from the Napa Property and Business Improvement District (PBID) and administered by the Downtown Napa Association with collaboration from the Economic Development, Parking & Code Enforcement and Public Works departments. The City used a local Napa company, Well Design, for the construction and installation of all the new wayfinding signs.

The City of Napa’s new pedestrian wayfinding signs stand as a testament to the City's commitment to creating a pedestrian-friendly environment. By embracing innovation and focusing on community goals, Napa is actively redefining its urban experience, one wayfinding sign at a time.

This press release was produced by the City of Napa. The views expressed here are the author’s own.