Monroe, Washington

The City of Monroe is located in east Snohomish County along the Skykomish River. Many new residents, and a majority of motorists that travel along highways that lead to the city, are unaware of the City’s historic downtown, riverfront parks, artistic, cultural, retail, commercial, and entertainment services. To create more awareness, the City initiated a gateway and wayfinding sign program to greet visitors and residents with an attractive sign design that makes a good first impression; helps people navigate through the community; and promotes economic development by highlighting key destinations and attractions.

Monroe’s Historic Downtown is one of the city’s key tourism draws. To highlight the downtown as an attraction and to give it its own sense of place, the city and historic downtown signage were designed differently. The primary gateway and city wayfinding signage reflects the city’s recreational and outdoorsy lifestyle while the Downtown signage highlights Main Street’s historic charm and unique character.

The first phase of the project which included the gateway monument signs, was recently completed. The second phase of the project is looking to be completed by 2022.