By Justin Aufdermauer, Executive Director, Tillamook Chamber of Commerce
At the Tillamook Chamber, one of our key strategic priorities is Business Growth. That goal is broad and often looks different depending on the project or season. Sometimes it means ongoing programs that support local businesses, and other times it’s unique initiatives that bring long-term value to our community. Earlier this spring, we launched one of those special projects in partnership with the Tillamook Coast Visitors Association: installing pedestrian wayfinding signs in downtown Tillamook.
The Chamber was actually the first to partner with TCVA and Partners in Design back in 2017. Their vision was to create a coordinated signage system that welcomes and guides visitors throughout the county. We developed a multi-phase plan – with the first phase focused on gateway or “Welcome” signs—those attractive markers placed at community entrances. Here in Tillamook, those gateway signs were completed in 2019 and have since been installed in other parts of the county as well.
Now we’re moving into phase two: pedestrian wayfinding. This system of signs and maps is designed to help people confidently navigate a city on foot. As residents, we often take our landmarks for granted. We drive past the kayak launch, the veterans memorial, or even another brewery without giving them a second thought. But for a visitor, discovering these places often requires a simple sign pointing the way. For example, if someone is enjoying an afternoon at Pelican Brewery & Taproom, wouldn’t it be helpful to direct them just a block away to another brewery, or to show them that a paddle on the river is just steps away?
Every time I encounter wayfinding signs in other cities, I feel instantly welcome. Their presence says: we care that you’re here, and we want you to explore what makes this place special. That feeling matters. Visitors who feel oriented and encouraged to explore are more likely to stay longer, shop, dine, and return. And the reality is, many of our local businesses rely on that support.
While these signs are designed with visitors in mind, I am also proud of what they represent for us as residents. They are a visible investment of lodging tax dollars, supporting not only tourism but also building community pride. They remind us that Tillamook is worth showing off.
This fall, keep an eye out for a dozen new high-quality wayfinding signs in downtown. They will serve our visitors, support our businesses, and remind us all that Tillamook is a community worth exploring.