Sign Code Update: Finding the Sweet Spot

A case study in integrating form-based and street graphic approaches into the sign code, provided by the city of Lacey, Washington.

1 minute read

June 5, 2015, 12:00 PM PDT

By byronka


"After complaints from the local business community, the City of Lacey, Washington, reached out for help to update their code. Lacey adopted a relatively strict sign code in 1997 to transition their image from its strip commercial past towards the community’s new vision. While the strict sign code achieved the desired results, it made for designs that were perceived as restrictive and sterile. The community desired to enhance the visual character of the community and felt that signage played an important part. Bob Bengford, MAKERS, and Joe Tovar were hired in early 2014 to help update the code. The process and outcomes of updating the code provide tools and approaches that may be useful for many of Washington’s cities and counties."

Tuesday, May 26, 2015 in MRSC Insight

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

1 hour ago - Mother Jones

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Screenshot of shade map of Buffalo, New York with legend.

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

0 seconds ago - 2TheAdvocate.com

Red 1972 Ford Pinto with black racing stripes on display with man sitting in driver's seat.

Analysis: Cybertruck Fatality Rate Far Exceeds That of Ford Pinto

The Tesla Cybertruck was recalled seven times last year.

18 minutes ago - Mother Jones

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog