Town of Rocky Mountain House

Economic Sustainability is one of the pillars of Council's Strategic Plan. Improved wayfinding was identified as a means to grow our tourism industry by promoting what Rocky Mountain House has and creating a sense of community identity for visitors to our Town, helping to recognize Rocky as a destination.

2025 Installation

As part of the 2025 capital budget, the Wayfinding Program focused on central vehicular wayfinding, supporting Council's effort to improve access to the downtown core. Additionally, the existing directory maps throughout Town were updated with new maps, as there have been several improvements to the Town's trail system in recent years, and five new directory maps were installed.

The signs installed in 2025 include:

• 6 Secondary Vehicular Signs installed along Highway 11A (52 Ave)
• 4 Large Directory Signs installed at trailheads throughout Town
• 7 Small Directory Signs installed along multi-purpose trail throughout Town

Installation delayed until spring 2026:

• 6 Primary Vehicular Signs installed along Highway 11 

Designing the Signs

In 2024, the Rocky Mountain House Wayfinding Program was developed by McElhanney consultants, with support from Town staff, and included designs for six different sign types.

	Primary Vehicular Signs For along the primary highway within Town. To help drivers navigate efficiently and safely through the community. Provides clear, consistent and easily recognizable information that guides motorists to key destinations such as downtown, public facilities, parks and the hospital. Reinforces local character and pride by strengthening the community's visual identity.
	Secondary Vehicular Signs For along secondary highways within Town. To help drivers navigate efficiently and safely through the community. Provides clear, consistent and easily recognizable information that guides motorists to key destinations such as downtown, public facilities, parks and the hospital. Reinforces local character and pride by strengthening the community's visual identity.
	Directory Map Signs To be installed at key locations, such as trailheads and amenities, across Town. Provides overview map of the recreational trail system and community amenities.
	Pedestrian Signs For along sidewalks and adjacent to Town facilities. To help people navigate the community on foot. Provides clear, accessible information about routes, key destinations and distances. Encourages walking as a convenient, safe and enjoyable mode of travel. Highlights links between central locations, neighbourhoods and community amenities.
	Event Signs For along the highway routes entering Town. Intended to help the community promote upcoming events.
	Trail Signs For along recreational trail system.  To help users navigate the recreational trail system safely and confidently. Provides essential information to guide users and connect them to parks, neighbourhoods and community amenities. Encourages outdoor activity and a healthy community.

As per the Wayfinding Program Final Report, a wayfinding program is more than just signposts and arrows. It can support vibrant community districts, connectivity, community diversity and inclusivity and placemaking. Some of the objectives of the project are community enhancement, promoting our Town's unique essence and character and identifying key destinations. All of which support the Economic, Social and Governance goals of Council's Strategic Plan.

The design process of the signs drew from public feedback on the Town's identity received during recent public engagement processes. The river confluence and natural timbers stood out both visually and for its feasibility, celebrating the Town's history and natural beauty in a simple design. 

Links

Wayfinding Program Final Report
Wayfinding Program Design and Implementation Summary
May 6, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Agenda
July 15, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Agenda