LYNN — The Planning Department is moving forward with an initiative to install wayfinding signage near downtown businesses and cultural institutions to help visitors navigate to key attractions.
Associate Planning Director Lauren Drago said the project has “been on the back of the Planning Department’s mind” for several years, as “the community felt it would be something really important.”
“If you don’t know where you’re going, it can sometimes be difficult for someone to explore, get around, maybe try out a new restaurant that they wouldn’t have otherwise,” Drago said. “We think this is going to have a big impact by making it easier for people to explore downtown, and make things very comfortable for someone coming here for the first time.”
According to Drago, the department plans to focus the signage on “permanent institutions with a public focus,” such as parking, City Hall, Lynn Auditorium, Lynn Museum, Northern Strand Community Trail, and the waterfront. She said the project’s goal is to “give a better experience for visitors coming to Lynn and hopefully encourage them to patronize our local businesses and cultural organizations.”
The project was able to move from planning and design work to fabrication and installation due to a $45,000 Destination Development Capital Grant from the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism. MOTT said that Lynn’s “clear public and private commitment to this project, combined with its placement in a designated Cultural District, made the (funding) application especially compelling.”
Local elected officials expressed their support for the project’s potential when it comes to benefiting Lynn’s economy.
Mayor Jared Nicholson said, “Improved wayfinding and broader streetscape enhancements represent a core priority for Lynn, aimed to elevate our Cultural District with more vibrancy and distinctiveness into the unique identity already flourishing here. These improvements will also significantly enhance visitor experience, promote local businesses and landmarks, and foster an even stronger sense of place within our community.”
Sen. Brendan Crighton said, “Increasing the wayfinding signage in the downtown area will support community businesses by making it more accessible to explore for visitors and residents alike. We appreciate the leadership in the City of Lynn for utilizing these grant resources to make a positive impact on our local businesses.”
State Rep. Dan Cahill said, “Investing in our downtown infrastructure is an investment in the people and businesses that make Lynn such a vibrant community. Wayfinding improvements will not only help visitors discover all that our Cultural District has to offer but will also strengthen the connection between residents, local businesses, and our city’s growing arts and cultural scene.”
State Rep. Jenny Armini said, “Downtown Lynn is one of the North Shore’s most vibrant cultural hubs, a place where creativity, community, and small business come together. This grant reinforces that energy by helping more people discover what makes the heart of Lynn so special.”
State Rep. Sean Reid said, “Whether you live here, work here, or are just visiting, this funding will make it easier to experience all that Lynn has to offer. These types of investments are important pieces of the puzzle for our local businesses, economy, and tourism.”
