This gateway sign for the Village of Mackinaw City is a blend of the old with the new, featuring old-school sign techniques such as prismatic cut logo details and hand applied gold leaf. It also includes the modern sign components of LED push through acrylic letter lighting and a Watchfire 10mm color Electronic Message Center. The end result is a sign that marries tradition with technology.
The project started when groups within the Village realized that there wasn’t an efficient method to share information about local events. It was their collaboration that brought the sign to life. The Lion’s Club came up with startup funding and a proposal for an electronic message center. Mackinaw City Public Schools approved of having a central means to convey school news and happenings and offered their support. City Hall members coordinated the efforts.
Preliminary concepts for the sign didn’t convey the look and feel that the Village of Mackinaw City is known for. If you’re from Northern Michigan, then you know the significance of history and tradition when it comes to the tip of the mitt region. Existing signage throughout the village portrays a classic style. Community members didn’t want a flashing sign that would give the impression of a metropolis.
Pro Image Design was contacted about the project, and told of the dilemma with the EMC. We developed a design solution that presented the traditional gold leaf prismatic logo that repeats on existing signs throughout the locale, yet also worked with an electronic message center. Our idea was submitted to the community. After final approval, fundraising was completed with additional grant money from Enbridge and DTE.
The PID team quickly started on sign fabrication, and the project was completed this past spring. The Village of Mackinaw City gateway sign is the culmination of efforts to bring the advantages of sign technology to the community, without compromising tradition. It was rewarding to partner with the village on the project.
