Based on recommendations for streetscape improvements and community outreach made as part of the 1998 East Falls Master Planning process, EFDC sponsored a competition to choose a strong recognizable neighborhood “Brand” that could be adapted to various forms of signage and messaging throughout the business district. The Brand was to be used immediately on celebratory banners and then integrated into Gateway and Wayfinding signage. It could also be adapted for website use by EFDC as well as other community organizations and neighborhood programs.
EFDC received 61 entries in the competition and invited the community to open houses to look at the designs and make comments. The designs were displayed without the designers’ name. The judges then reviewed the designs and the community comments. Not surprisingly, their opinions were very much in line with the community, with the favorite designs referencing the detailed “tree of life” railing detailing on the historic Falls Bridge.
This competition was funded by PA DCED through the gracious support of State Representative Kathy M. Manderino.
Judges: Gary Crowell, (Dean, School of Architecture, Philadelphia University), Sean Carton (Dean, School of Graphic Design, Philadelphia University), Rashida Ng (Faculty, Architecture, Temple University), Claudia Phillips (Dean, School of Landscape Architecture, Philadelphia University), Sharon Jaffe (Designer and President of EFCommunity Council), and Karen Minyard (former Managing Director of PNC Advisors and Council Member of the Pennsylvania Horticulture Society).
Advisors: Amy Thompson West, Tocci Builders
and Carolyn Sutton, President, East Falls Development Corporation
First Place: $1500, Second Place: $700, Third Place: $300
