Happy [and Safer] Trails
When Friends of Des Moines Parks & Des Moines Parks and Recreation sought to overhaul the trail system’s emergency 911 markers, they turned to Project7 for a transformative redesign. The goal was clear: establish a vibrant, identifiable, and effective solution for the city’s expanding network of trails. What emerged from this collaboration was not just a signage update but a comprehensive branding and identity system that not only aids in navigation buts also fosters a sense of community and pride.
The previous emergency trail markers, or E-911 signs, were too easily removed or damaged, which made it difficult for first responders to identify a caller’s location. The newly designed signs are printed on reflective metal with logos riveted on to add dimension for the branded trail identification. A more permanent solution, the new pole-mounted signs are larger, allowing for more prominent E-911 numbers.
Project7 took on this challenge with enthusiasm. In the initial research phase we facilitated a community survey to gather input and insights about the trails from the very people who frequent them, ensuring that the new designs would resonate with the community it serves. This resulted in a design system of nine trail logos that are easily marketable for fundraisers, and can continue to grow along with the bike and water trails that attract visitors to central Iowa.
At the heart of the project was the incorporation of a six-digit E-911 location number into each marker, ensuring swift emergency response in case of need. But functionality alone wasn’t enough. P7 envisioned a system that not only served an important purpose but also celebrated the unique character of each trail. The result? A design system comprising nine trail logos and counting, each encapsulating an iconic feature, historical, or identifying element of the trail it represents. These logos not only serve as markers but also as symbols of the trail’s identity, fostering a deeper connection between users and their surroundings.
In addition to the E-911 signs, p7 designed graphics for the back panels of five unique art trail corridors that can be experienced by trail users in all directions of travel. Each corridor’s graphics are based on that trail’s branding system.
The front sides of the panels feature a different local artist, photographer, or illustrator for each corridor and p7 executed the set up of the large-scale graphics for production. Learn more about the art corridor project and find an interactive map on the Des Moines Parks and Recreation website here.
As the trail system continues to evolve and expand, so too will the brand identity system. We hope that with every ride or stroll along these trails, residents and visitors alike are reminded of the beauty, diversity, and community spirit that define Des Moines.
See more of the project here!
Above: Artwork Then the World Healed by Paula McArthur on the Carl Voss Trail
ANNA LEMONS
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
As one of Project7 Design’s Creative Directors, Anna collaborates with the team to create strong brands. With 15 years of experience, she has a range of design expertise in a variety of industries.