As most Dowagiac residents have undoubtedly seen, the city has recently unveiled its latest additions to a handful of the city’s most well traveled roadways, in the form of nearly a dozen way-finding signs.

Intended to provide simple directions to a handful of popular destinations, parks and landmarks for people stopping by from out of town, officials say that these structures are a part of the city’s long-term project to make Dowagiac a more inviting and welcoming place to visitors.

Costing the city nearly $45,000 to build and install, the signs were by no means a cheap investment for the city. Judging by comments made by some residents online, this project isn’t viewed by all as the wisest use of city hall’s pool of funds.

But those critics need to look at the big picture. We share the city’s vision for the potential the signs have for increasing the visibility and a viability of Dowagiac as destination for tourists.

Though the near universal proliferation of GPS-powered navigation has made these and other types of destination markers obsolete to many, these types of way finding signs remain a common sight across nearly every community large enough to attract regular visitation. They are a simple yet effective way of showcasing some of the key elements that the city has to offer.

More importantly, though, these signs show that a community is welcome to people living outside its borders. Cities and villages that foster a positive environment for visitors will reap the many benefits that a healthy tourism market provides.

Dowagiac is already a community rife with tourists. Besides seeing an influx of visitors from around the country during festivals such Dogwood, a large contingent of people with lake side resorts comprise much of the summer business for local restaurants, and shops.

All you need to do is ask one of downtown’s business owners how critical these customers are to the survival of their business. Many shops rely on strong revenues during the spring, summer and early fall months in order to make it through the slower sales seen during winter.

Ensuring that tourism grows in the future is a wise decision for city officials to make in our minds.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.