Pitt Meadows is going ahead with a new roadside signage program to make easier for locals and tourists to find agriculture-related destinations.
The city has launched The True North Fraser signage program, a regional project partnering with Maple Ridge and Mission.
The True North Fraser brand was supported by a $14,175 grant provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development through its Invest Canada – Community Initiatives program and the Maple Ridge Agriculture Advisory Committee. The grant was matched by Pitt Meadows.
“This program will attract people to our community ... supports and grows our local economy and enriches our community,” Pitt Meadows Mayor Deb Walters said.
Walters said the cooperation between the city’s economic development office and Maple Ridge and Mission will help reiterate that farming is an important economic driver in the area and that all three communities are open for business.
Don MacDonald, a Pitt Meadow’s blueberry grower, was quick to get on board, being one of the first local farmers to order a sign.
“People love to come out, visit the farm, meet the farmer, and pick some berries,” said MacDonald. “It’s great to share our vibrant farming industry with others and now it will be even easier for visitors to find us.”
There are two sign options for farmers. Costs are $105 for a one-sided sign. An additional sign is $30. Two-sided signs are $140, with a second sign costing $65.
Farmers participating in the program have to remove the signs at the end of the season and a sign permit.
Municipal signs will be installed in several key intersections in Pitt Meadows and will include the True North Fraser logo and a directional arrow.
Agriculture-related businesses can apply to have up to two True North Fraser signs installed per property.
Lori Graham, coordinator of the Pitt Meadows Economic Development Corporation, said the new road sign program will also raise public awareness of the Invest North Fraser region’s high quality agricultural products and the farmers, growers and processors behind them.
Farmers, growers, and processors in Pitt Meadows who are interested in the program can call 604-460-9481 or email EDinfo@thinkpittmeadows.ca or visit www.thinkpittmeadows.ca.
• In Maple Ridge they can call 604-467-7319 and in Mission call 604-820-3789.