City of Blue Island: Enhancing City Identity Through Strategic Signage

The City of Blue Island, Illinois, a historic city near Chicago, sought to enhance its visual identity and create a stronger sense of place. As one of the region’s oldest suburbs and a “Preserve America” community, the City of Blue Island has a rich history tied to canals, railroads, and industry. The city aimed to communicate this history and its unique character to residents and visitors.

To achieve this, the City of Blue Island partnered with design and architectural firms to develop a comprehensive signage plan. PSCO Kieffer, part of the PSCO Sign Group, was selected to fabricate and install the custom signage package. PSCO Kieffer’s expertise in custom fabrication made them an ideal partner for this project.

Building a Strong Identity through Collaboration
PSCO Kieffer collaborated closely with the design and architectural team to finalize approved drawings, then seamlessly guided the project through fabrication and installation. This collaborative approach ensured the project met all specifications and aligned with the city’s vision.

PSCO Kieffer fabricated and installed entrance markers and branded elements, incorporating design principles and blue accents. The use of blue reinforces the city’s identity and connects to its historical context.

The custom signage project encompassed several key elements designed to create a cohesive and impactful visual identity:

• Illuminated Pylon and Monument Sign with Integrated LED Electronic Message Center: This prominent gateway marker welcomes visitors and provides a platform for community announcements and events. The combination of a pylon and monument sign offers long-distance visibility and detailed information at street level.
• Illuminated Monument Sign with Integrated Bronze Plaques: This sign combines a sleek design with striking blue illumination. Bronze plaques incorporated into the design showcase historical information and recognize the three sister cities, adding a layer of historical depth to the city’s visual narrative.
• Post and Panel Street and Identification Signs: These signs provide clear wayfinding and contribute to the city’s overall aesthetic. Consistent design and strategic placement ensure easy navigation and enhance the streetscape.

The completed project effectively strengthened the City of Blue Island’s identity and highlighted its unique characteristics. The design and implementation of the signage package directly supported the city’s goals.

PSCO Kieffer’s expertise in custom signage and stakeholder collaboration is evident in this project. Our turnkey approach allows us to join a project at any stage and deliver the desired vision. This project demonstrates the power of strategic signage to shape a city’s image and build community.

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