Sharp-eyed citizens might have seen new maps and signage around town. They are all part of Tourism Powell River’s effort to provide updated information on amenities around town.
“The new map offers a much more accurate representation of what Powell River has to offer and acts as a warm welcome to visitors,” said Paul Kamon, executive director for Tourism Powell River.
The updated map, which contains information about recreational amenities around Powell River, also helps after-hours visitors find their way around town, explained Kamon.
In addition to the updated map installed outside the visitor’s centre, readers may also have spotted new roadside markers for the Sunshine Coast Trail along Highway 101.
Kamon said the signage project has been a priority at the tourism office since he joined it several years ago.
“I wanted the signage to reflect the nature of Powell River,” said Kamon. “Decrepit old signage was a poor reflection of the reality of the friendliness of our town.”
A report of the state of visitor signage on the Lower and Upper Sunshine Coast, authored by Kamon in 2014 and partially funded by Island Coastal Economic Trust, revealed that not only were damaged, decayed and inaccurate signs commonplace but the region lacked basic informational signs and wayfinding.
Report in hand, Kamon lobbied City of Powell River Council and Powell River Regional District for more than $100,000 for new signage in December last year.
“I did a number of presentations to the city and regional district to contribute funds to the project,” said Kamon, who additionally sought and received monies from the Federal Gas Tax Fund. The wooden sign outside the visitors’ centre was also paid for by a grant from Powell River Community Forest, he said.
Additional map signage is also set to be installed in the coming weeks at BC Ferries terminals at Saltery Bay, Earls Cove and Little River in Comox.
New trail head signs along the Sunshine Coast Trail, with a map of the area and hut locations, are also being built right now, along with signs for Mowat Bay, Powell River Wharfinger’s Office and Powell River Recreation Complex. According to Kamon, all are to be installed this month.
