Two sessions to gather public input on a wayfinding project will be taking place tomorrow.
The Creston Valley Economic Action Partnership is launching the second phase of the wayfinding project.
Engagement workshops in both Creston and Crawford Bay will be held tomorrow.
Manager Leandri Kleinhans says wayfinding is all about how the public navigate their environment and sense of where they are.
“Nowadays, that includes a lot of online information, but also the network of signage in our area. And wayfinding is very important because research shows that when visitors find it difficult to navigate a place, they’re very likely to just pass through quickly or just bypass a place completely, which is obviously very bad for the economy of a community or the tourism sector in a community.”
The first phase of the project was assessing the current state of the signage network in the Creston Valley and around Kootenay Lake.
And Kleinhans says they found some gaps.
“Now, we’re acting on those recommendations. We want to create a new wayfinding brand that really shines the spotlight on what is special about the Creston Valley and Kootenay Lake.”
In addition to those recommendations, Kleinhans says they want to hear from those living in the community.
“We want to know how people see the Creston Valley and Kootenay Lake and how they would like their community to be presented to the outside world.”
There will be two engagement sessions: one in Creston at the Creston and District Community Centre from 6 to 8 p.m., and one in Crawford Bay at the Coconut Springs Golf Resort from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
“Participants can expect to take part in a fun, interactive discussion,” Kleinhans says.
“We really just want to tap into people’s opinions and experiences of Creston Valley and Kootenay Lake. And there will be snacks and beverages, and we will also have two gift cards up for grabs.”
Kleinhans adds they were lucky enough to receive a $1 million grant from the Destination Development Fund from the Ministry of Tourism, Art, Culture, and Sport.
Those wishing to attend can reserve their spot by emailing Kleinhans at leahk@kes.bc.ca. However, limited seating will be available for walk-ins.
