In August, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) awarded two grants totaling $124,960 to Surry and Wilkes counties for implementation of the YVHC Partnership’s comprehensive signage and wayfinding program. The grant funds will be used for fabricating and installing kiosks and signs in towns and on NC Scenic Byways in Surry and Wilkes counties.
The new banners hang in downtown Boonville, Elkin and Pilot Mountain.
New banners hang in downtown Boonville, Elkin, and Pilot Mountain and more are expected in towns across the Yadkin Valley as the Yadkin Valley Heritage Corridor (YVHC) Partnership launches its comprehensive wayfinding program in the four-county region.
Seven areas across Surry, Wilkes, Yadkin and Caldwell counties received five banners each to hang in their respective districts, and several towns purchased more for their area.
In addition to Boonville, Elkin, and Pilot Mountain, banners will go up in Dobson, Jonesville, North Wilkesboro, Ronda, Wilkesboro and Yadkinville.
“I’ve seen the ones over in Elkin,” said Jeremy Walker, who was visiting Surry from Virginia at Mayfest in Pilot Mountain. “I was in Elkin and noticed it when I went antique shopping, just like I notice the pretty sign right here in Pilot too. They’re really nice looking and I hope many people have a chance to notice their character.”
The banners were developed by MERJE Design for the YVHC Partnership as part of a regional marketing and vehicular-signage program for the four counties.
“It’s great to see the towns coming together,” said Leslie Schlender, economic development director for the Town of Elkin and chair of the YVHC Partnership. “The banners help tie our region together while still reflecting the individuality of each township.”
One side of each banner features the town name along with an image of the town. The backside features the YVHC Partnership logo and tagline, “It starts with a river.” Last year, a regional identity was launched along with a mobile Web site, county welcome signs, and online and print advertisements.
“I am excited to see our how are efforts are paying off,” says Helen Ruth Almond, project manager for the YVHC Partnership. “We’re able to bring more exposure for the Yadkin Valley name as a nationally recognized recreational, cultural, and wine destination.”
“Banners are wonderful. They speak volumes and say that the community, its businesses, and leaders are all connected and working together. That’s why I look for those small details. I’ll be visiting a place called Elkin next week and I’m excited,” said Emily Watts, in town to support another vendor who had a display at Mayfest.
Reach Anthony Gonzalez at 336-835-1513 or email at agonzalez@civitasmedia.com.
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