The proposed installation of 83 signs on The Villages’ multi-modal paths, expected to provide clearer directions and safer traveling conditions, was the focus of the Multi-Modal Path Discussion Group on Thursday morning at Savannah Center.
“They will be placed at major ‘decision points’ such as at tunnels where cart drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians can either turn left or right,” explained Richard Baier, assistant district manager.
“They will comply with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices and follow Elder User Roadway Standards.
“All signs will be consistent in size and font of white letters on a ‘Villages’ green background with a brown boarder. They will be placed on tunnel walls facing drivers or on specially-engineered posts at the height of three and a half to four feet.
“Because of their reflective lettering, the signs will be visible at night and will not require additional lighting,” continued Baier.
Amber Gartner, representing Kimley-Horn & Associates Inc. followed with a power point presentation of 31 aerial views throughout The Villages detailing the signs’ specific placement and rationale for each location.
The signs are slated to be placed on the main multi-modal paths: Buena Vista Boulevard, Morse Boulevard, the Power Corridor in Community Development District 4, and El Camino Real paths with directional arrows.
They are designed to guide people to the major destinations of the Marion County Fire Rescue; Sharon Morse Medical Center, Spanish Springs; Lake Sumter Landing; Brownwood Paddock Square; Soaring Eagle Softball Complex; County Road 466 tunnel and various collector roadways.
Others are directional signs and will point to the Mulberry Grove, Savannah, Laurel Manor, Colony Cottage, Rohan and Eisenhower recreational centers.
“We have been closely working with the Developer who supports our efforts,” said District Manager Janet Tutt. “These signs will be consistent with areas of The Villages now under construction.”
The committee members, representing 11 Community Development Districts and the Amenity Authority Committee, sought clarification of some signs’ placement, recommended the addition of others, and asked about the project’s cost.
“We will take all your suggestions under advisement,” promised Baier. “But, until the scope of the project is finalized, the cost can not been determined. Let me emphasize that the expense will be a fraction of the $800 to $1,000 paid for each of the existing sign posts.”
The public also was invited to comment.
Phil Murphy of the Village of Glenbrook thought the presenters did a great job but suggested the addition of periodically-placed signs to remind drivers of the 20-mph speed limits.
Three district Supervisors, Duane Johnson from CDD 8; Don Deakin, from CDD 4; and Mark Gallo, representing CDD 7, also offered their suggestions for additional locations while strongly endorsing the initiative.
“I also am the VHA’s Safety Director, and have dealt with some 3,000 people about cart safety,” said Gallo. “These signs are what people are asking for. These discussions are ‘right on!’
