City of Evanston

Construction Sign Explained

Posted by Wally Bobkiewicz on Sep 7, 2010 at 10:19 PM in Utilities

The City Council received an email last week with this photo and the following message:

"Mayor and Council Members,

In this day of budget cutting and the need for improved fiscal responsibility, I’m bothered by the cost vs. need of this humongous sign at Lake & Dodge. What’s the purpose that we can’t figure out without it? And does that purpose justify the fabrication and labor costs required to install it? Can anyone tell me what those costs are? Couldn’t that money be put to a better use?

(Sorry that it’s blurred. The lens got wet when I shot it in the rain!)"

Outstanding question. Here was my response:

"Thanks for your note.

These type of signs had been used periodically by the City prior to my arrival a year ago. I asked staff that we use them on all projects because I believe they convey important information to the public. The signs cost about $800 for the fabrication and labor costs.

Signs like this are very important in that they share with the general public exactly what is being done, that the project is being done by the City of Evanston, the funding source of the project (Evanston tax dollars or other sources), the contractor and a contact number for further information. I have personally received positive feedback from residents that they appreciate knowing what the project is, who is paying for it and a contact (usually to complain about something, but at least they contact the responsible staff member directly).

In an effort to save money a year ago, we did not “value engineer” the design of the sign. We went with what had been used in the past. $800 all in is a little much, so I will be asking staff for an economized version of the sign next construction season."

This blog is for questions like this. Please send them as you think of them!!

Topics: Water and Sewer