Cochrane is providing an alternative medium for message boards with the unveiling of the new digital signs.
“I think they are a nice addition to the town. They are more appealing than some of the traditional signs and Cochrane always strives to maintain that small town feel and the western heritage,” said Mayor Ivan Brooker.
In the past month, the Town has been working on the construction and installation of two digital signs; one located on Griffin Road West and the second located on Glenbow Drive across from Fifth Avenue. The Town is also allowing the construction of privately owned digital signs, with one already installed and operating on Fifth Ave in the Cochrane Town Square.
The bylaw to allow digital signs was approved Feb. 23, 2015 by council, after eight months of public engagement studies by the town administration including an online survey and two open houses in 2014. The approval for the construction of the signs detailed the heritage design plan in the bylaw, including a maximum height requirement and other specific architectural requirements.
Feedback about the signs from the residents has been mixed, according to town administration.
“Some people recognize it is a new technology and people realize we need to step into the new millennium and we are certainly trying to find that balance, and there are some people that don’t like them and there is no doubt about it,” said Jared Kassel, manager of planning and engineering for the Town of Cochrane.
While personal views about the signs are mixed, Brooker said he is excited to have a new, more efficient way to “get the word out to the community.”
The digital signs will display information for upcoming events, from community organizations and non-profit societies, while also displaying emergency-type messages.
The bylaw also limits the brightness of the screen, how fast a message can be changed and a time limit, the signs must be turned off between 10 p.m. – 7 a.m. Administration also assured there are studies showing the signs do not distract drivers to a dangerous extent.
For those interested in displaying a message, contact the Town of Cochrane. For more information go to cochrane.ca/signs.
