Blog
Comparing the 3 Primary Types of Traffic Signs
Monday May 06, 2019
Traffic signs, also known as roadway signs, are used to denote information or instructions to motorists and pedestrians. They've been around for thousands of years, with some of the earliest types consisting of stone milestone markers. With the advent of automotive transportation, however, traffic signs are now more important than ever. While there are dozens of types of traffic signs used in the United States, most fall under one of three categories.
What Are Bollards? And Why Should I Use Them?
Friday April 26, 2019
From parks and recreational areas to shopping centers and apartment complexes, bollards are found in a variety of places. Consisting of short and vertical posts, they are used to separate roads from areas used by pedestrians and cyclists. If you've been tasked with developing a residential or commercial area, though, you might be wondering what benefits, if any, bollards offer.
6 Facts About the Stop Sign
Monday April 15, 2019
Featuring a distinct red, octagonal design, the stop sign is the most easily recognizable traffic sign in the United States. It's used on countless roads to instruct motorists to stop their vehicle. But even if you're familiar with the general design and purpose of the stop sign, there are probably some things you don't know about this essential traffic sign.
How to Discourage Mail Theft in a New Neighborhood or Community
Monday April 08, 2019
If you're developing a new neighborhood or residential community, you might be wondering what precautions you can take to protect residents from mail theft. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), approximately 400,000 Americans have their mail stolen in any given year. For residents, mail theft isn't just frustrating; it poses a risk to their credit and reputation. After taking a resident's mail, a thief may steal his or her identity, using the resident's Social Security number and other personal information to open new credit cards. As a developer, though, there are a few ways you can discourage mail theft in a new neighborhood or residential community.
What Are the MUTCD Requirements for Community Wayfinding Signage?
Monday April 01, 2019
If you're planning to include wayfinding signage in your community, you may need to comply with the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD). Developed by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the MUTCD contains rules that property and community developers must follow when using signs and other traffic control instruments on roads and streets with a medium or high volume of traffic. If you community is located on any non-low-volume road or street, as specified here, you must comply with the MUTCD's requirements when using wayfinding signage.
What Do the Colors of Street and Traffic Signs Represent?
Monday March 25, 2019
Unbeknownst to most people, street and traffic signs are typically designed with specific colors depending on their purpose. In the United States, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) requires municipalities and developers to use signs in the correct color. While some property developers view this as a burden, it's essential to creating a safe, functional community. So, what do the different colors of street and road signs represent?
What Is Wayfinding Signage? And Why Does It Matter?
Monday March 18, 2019
From parks and commercial shopping centers to neighborhoods and college campuses, wayfinding signage is found nearly everywhere. It's called "wayfinding" because it helps motorists and pedestrians find their way. When a motorist or pedestrian encounters wayfinding signage, he or she can use it to locate nearby points of interests. While all wayfinding signage serves this fundamental purpose, they are available in a variety of colors, sizes, shapes and styles. To learn more about wayfinding signage and why it matters, keep reading.
Can Street Name Signs Be Mounted on the Same Poles as Traffic Signs?
Friday March 15, 2019
If you're developing a new residential community -- or if you're looking to update an existing community -- you might be wondering if it's acceptable to mount street name signs on the same poles or bases as traffic signs. Both street name signs and road signs are essential to residential communities. Street name signs guide motorists and pedestrians alike to their intended destination, whereas traffic signs provide control measures to reduce the risk of vehicle collisions. However, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has rules developers and municipalities must follow when using signage. So, can you mount street name signs on the same poles or bases as traffic signs?
How to Choose Outdoor Lighting for Your Community or Commercial Property
Friday March 08, 2019
Outdoor lighting is used to illuminate and enhance the aesthetics of residential communities as well as commercial properties. Typically consisting of a weather-resistant pole affixed with one or more light fixtures, outdoor lighting illuminates the surrounding space when the sun goes down. Not only does this help people see when traveling through the area; it also creates a safer environment by deterring criminal activity. With so many types of outdoor lighting, however, how do you know which one is right for your community or commercial property?
5 Tips on Cleaning and Maintaining Cluster Mailbox Units
Saturday March 02, 2019
As the United States Postal Service (USPS) continues to encourage the use of cluster mailbox units (CBUs), you can expect to see more of these centralized mail delivery systems in apartments, neighborhoods and other residential communities. CBUs streamline mail pickup and delivery by couriers by allowing them to collect and drop off mail for many residents at a single location. Rather than visiting each resident's unit to drop off mail, for example, a courier can visit the community's CBU, which contains a secure mailbox for each resident.