Planning
Parking Signs
Planning an Exterior The development of an effective working parking lot or parking structure sign
Sign Program program requires the coordination of several interlaced criteria.
For an effective sign program you have to take into account to the following:
1. Character and configuration of the roadway system in the parking lot and
the circulation system in the parking structure.
2. How do visitors currently drive around the parking lot or structure.
3. Where do you want visitors to park?
4. What is the desired path of travel on the roadway system, to parking, for
visitors?
5. What is the desired path of pedestrian travel from parking to building
entrances?
6. Location of building entrances on the facility campus in relation to parking.
7. Location of electricity, its availability and voltage.
8. Adequate light on and around directional signs.
9. Placement of signs in locations where people are expecting them to be.
These elements help establish the basis of a clear sign program that
communicates and informs in a direct and simple manner.
A parking structure or parking lot sign program, that works well, is one that
has been planned as an integrated whole. From the vehicle directional signs,
pedestrian directional signs, building and building entrance identification through
parking exit signs.
Another important consideration is that a parking sign program needs to be
planned in accord with cohesive organized parking plan for both visitor and
employees.
Types of Signs The main parking identification sign for a medical center parking structure
should be a large scale illuminated sign. Refer to the exterior signs section for
illuminated signs.
Internally illuminated signs within a parking structure should be considered
for those locations where important information and directions need to be
communicated at night or in low light conditions. A non-illuminated sign that is
illuminated with floodlights or a light fixture can be effective as well.
Non-illuminated signs with reflective letters will function quite well for
secondary signs. It is a good practice to make all the signs have reflective
letters as that will insure the best possibility of being read regardless of a signs
importance.
Page 3-2-1
2/2005
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