University committee develops updated campus signage for new school year

An Ohio University committee has developed new campus signage designed to help students, faculty, and staff safely navigate buildings and common spaces this coming school year.

The signage will show the University community how to enter and exit buildings and travel through hallways, stairwells, common spaces, and elevators to ensure adequate social distancing and to reduce density. In addition, signs will be installed to indicate that water fountains are closed but that water bottle filling stations are still operational.

The signage will be used in buildings on the Athens and regional campuses, including in residence and dining halls.

“All signage will consistently reflect the University brand and will be easy to identify. The signs will feature clear instructions on how the University community can stay safe while using campus facilities,” said Carly Leatherwood, senior director of communication services for University Communications and Marketing.

The new signage was developed by a University committee with representatives from University Planning, Facilities Management and Safety, Transportation and Parking Services, Housing and Residence Life, Regional Higher Education, University Communications and Marketing, and Printing Services.

If planning units need additional, customized signage for specific functions in their buildings or common areas, they must place an order through this website managed by Printing Services. Examples include signage in Ping Recreation Center that alerts users to locker room access restrictions.

Printing Services is currently producing the signage, and Facilities Management and Safety is starting installation of general signage across campuses.

“We will continually assess and monitor the new signage and replace any signs that are damaged as needed,” said Steve Wood, chief facilities officer. “The new signage is a critical component of University efforts to ensure a safe restart of on-campus operations.”

Further questions about university signage can be directed to Facilities Management and Safety at 740-593-2911 or fmservicedesk@ohio.edu.