Enhancing Navigation and Accessibility Through Cartographic Design
Green Goat Maps collaborated with the Village of Saranac Lake to create updated wayfinding maps as part of the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). The maps were designed to support residents and visitors in navigating the downtown area and surrounding regions while complementing infrastructure enhancements funded by the DRI. This project aligned with the Village’s Complete Streets Policy, emphasizing accessibility, mobility, and health for all users.
To meet the community's needs, Green Goat Maps was contracted to:
Draft a new, detailed map from scratch using advanced cartographic software to highlight the uniqueness of Downtown Saranac Lake.
Include essential map features such as a comprehensive legend, a small-scale map of the larger Saranac Lake region, and two large-scale inset maps for Downtown Saranac Lake and Moody Pond.
Design the maps to fit seamlessly within existing wayfinding kiosks while maintaining flexibility for resizing websites and printed materials.
Adhere to the principles of the Complete Streets Policy to ensure accessibility and promote ease of navigation.
The final project included a detailed representation of Downtown Saranac Lake with points of interest, natural amenities, and services. A comprehensive legend was incorporated for ease of use and clear navigation. Insets highlighted Moody Pond and the larger Saranac Lake region. The maps were designed to be compatible with existing wayfinding kiosks, as well as web and print formats.
Challenges of This Project
Designing maps that balanced aesthetic appeal with detailed navigational information was a key challenge. The maps needed to be visually engaging while maintaining clarity and ease of use for a diverse audience. By leveraging advanced cartographic software, Green Goat Maps ensured that the wayfinding tools were both functional and aligned with accessibility standards, seamlessly integrating into existing infrastructure.
Value for Our Client
The new wayfinding maps improved navigation and accessibility for residents and visitors, supporting the Village’s Complete Streets Policy by promoting safe and convenient access to key locations. By reinforcing community engagement and enhancing the region’s appeal as a visitor destination, these maps contributed to urban revitalization efforts and strengthened the identity of Downtown Saranac Lake as a welcoming and accessible space.
The new wayfinding maps enhanced the user experience by providing clear and attractive navigation tools for residents and visitors alike. They supported the Village’s Complete Streets Policy by promoting safe and convenient access to downtown amenities, natural spaces, and local services. Additionally, the maps reinforced community engagement and the region’s appeal as a visitor destination.
The project delivered high-quality, user-friendly wayfinding maps that seamlessly integrated into existing infrastructure. These maps improved accessibility and ease of navigation while aligning with broader urban development and revitalization goals.
Project details:
Client: Village of Saranac Lake Medium: Vinyl wrapped DiBond mounted on trail kiosk Size: Varied (48″x24″, 24″x36″, 24″x18″) Attribution: Nicole Keating was the cartographer and graphic designer, Carrie Griffo performed research, and Ezra Schwartzberg was the production coordinator.
Looking for a Similar Solution?
If your community or organization needs custom wayfinding maps or cartographic design services, Green Goat Maps is here to help. Contact us to learn more about how we can create tailored solutions for your needs.
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