Is the wayfinding project now complete?
The first three phases of the campus wayfinding project focused on the planning, design, fabrication and installation of exterior wayfinding signage. These phases are now complete, and additional needs and opportunities have been identified. As a result, a fourth phase of work (Phase 4) has been defined and approved. This phase will focus on enhancements to existing exterior wayfinding (e.g., additional signage types), development and installation of exterior wayfinding signage on campuses in Cambridge, Kitchener and Stratford as well as the development of a comprehensive interior wayfinding system.
Why was the Waterloo sign located at the University Avenue entrance moved?
The Waterloo sign had become a favourite photo backdrop for students and visitors. Unfortunately, its location required photographers to stand in the road, putting them at risk of being struck by passing vehicles. Moving the sign to a safe, visible and easy to access location between the Arts Quad and the Grad House ensures it remains an important and enduring part of campus culture.
Where can I find out about closures and restrictions during any installation work?
All efforts will be made to manage traffic in the area for the safety of students, faculty, staff, visitors and workers. The University will do its best to update the community on any closures and restrictions during sign installation, which can be found on the project updates page.
Will the project include internal wayfinding?
The first three phases of the project focused on external wayfinding and signage and provided initial designs for internal wayfinding. Phase 4 of the wayfinding project will focus on the development of a comprehensive interior wayfinding system for future use.
Is there a map showing wayfinding routes and sign locations?
A high level plan with sign locations and types may be seen on the Wayfinding web site. Please note that, due to size and resolution constraints, the plan does not show all signs (e.g. trail markers, parking signs, building entrance signs).
Will the signs have a lighting component?
The current signs have been designed to use ambient or, where appropriate, spot lighting. Design development will continue to explore if other types of lighting (e.g. internal) are required.
Do the signs and wayfinding system meet accessibility requirements?
The project is fully AODA compliant and, through consultation with on-campus experts also meets the University’s standards. That includes path placement, sign colours and contrast, font size, type height, sign location, etc.
Will there be digital wayfinding included?
In the discovery phase of the project students, faculty and staff all indicated their support for the use of digital wayfinding but voiced clear preference for static wayfinding as the priority need. Future phases will consider how to best integrate digital.