After surveys, mock-ups and consultations, an official wayfinding system for the University’s campus has been adopted and is beginning installation.
In the next four to five months, the new signs will be seen around campus.
Boston-based Sasaki Associates, Inc. designed the signs, said Jason Soileau, assistant director of Facility Development.
The new signs will be placed near the Student Union, Student Health Center, dining halls and parking lots, Soileau said.
The objectives of the wayfinding system are to honor the LSU tradition; capture the cultural character of Baton Rouge; evoke the spirited attitude of both students and fans; reinforce the LSU brand; clearly inform, direct and orient; and create a safer, more user-friendly environment, according to the Campus Wayfinding Signage Guidelines.
In an August 2009 survey, 76 percent of respondents said they either agreed or strongly agreed the signs are appropriate for the campus. Seventy-two percent reported they agreed the signs showcase the LSU spirit, and 84 percent agreed the signs clearly inform the user.
Soileau said some are questioning why the University is implementing new signs when the budget is being slashed, but he said that idea is unfounded.
A common misconception implies the University is paying for the signs, but the project is actually funded by University Auxiliary Services revenue, Soileau said. The money is not related to the University’s appropriated funds, he said.
The signs are a result of an amalgamation of ideals unique to the University such as historic buildings, the duality of academics and athletics, tradition and pride, according to the Campus Wayfinding Signage Guidelines. The result is a sign that has strong lines, pure geometry, rich yet simple detailing and a twist of modern meets classic.
Another set of themes classic to the University’s ambiance — such as soft tones of stucco, bronze and tile roofs — was considered in the design plans, along with the iconic purple and gold color scheme.
Several alternatives are being explored to have the illuminated letters “LSU” on campus. The sign would have a programmable LED matrix, which would allow graphics and images to move around the sign, according to the Campus Wayfinding Signage Guidelines.
The signs have already been commissioned, but Soileau said plans for additional signs are up in the air until the project is opened to bids by construction companies.
The signs are awarded based on a bidding process; therefore, there are no time tables for completion nor can costs be projected for the signs.
“If it takes us 10 years, so be it,” Soileau said.
Upon completion, the signs will provide a “drastic change to the face of the campus,” Soileau said.
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Contact Andrew Cavazos at [email protected]