Last April, after several local residents protested the look and installation of the blue signs on Scenic Highway 30A, the Tourist Development Council decided to remove the signs. It was decided the wayfinding signs would remain until they could be redesigned.
"We're leaving up the wayfinding signs until we can find an agreed upon alternative," said Executive Director of Tourist Development Sonny Mares
After County Road 30A received the scenic highway designation, the Friends of 30A was formed to assist the TDC with new directional signage.
"Our board is waiting for positive action," said Mares. "We are willing to work with the Friends of 30A to create a new design for the signs."
As part of the scenic highway designation, six Florida Department of Transportation Florida Scenic Highway signs will be placed at the entrance points to Scenic Highway 30A, according to Tracy Louthain, director of public relations and visitor services for the Beaches of South Walton Tourist Development Council
The Friends of 30A are holding regular meeting and working with local citizen organization and government entities to begin implementing the Corridor Management Plan, according to Louthain.
Among the goals of the CMP include improving directional signs along Timpoochee Trail and Point Washington State Park, while removing repetitive non-conforming signage. Safety signs are anticipated to be installed along the bike path this winter, according to Louthain.
It has been suggested that the new designs for the wayfinding signs resemble the new Timpoochee Trail signs, which are currently being fabricated, according to Mares.
"Our timeline depends on outside forces," said Mares. "We're anxious to resolve these issues."
The next Friends of 30A meeting is scheduled for Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. at the Bayou Arts Center of Walton County on County Road 393N.
For more information, contact Commissioner Cindy Meadows' office at (850) 622-3059 or
meacindy@co.walton.fl.us.
