By Michelle Bilock
For the past several months, residents in Brooks Landing and the Pocket have been developing community branding to be used in a neighborhood signage project. Committees formed and they asked residents to submit “design concepts” that would reflect the values and characteristics of their communities. Submissions of all sorts arrived- from slogans and phrases, to historical highlights, to hand or computer generated images.
Kristin Ward of the Pocket, a graphic designer by trade, emerged as a leader of the committee in her neighborhood.
“My kids and I rented a house on Kansas Street and had to move away. We felt so homesick for our neighbors and for our friends at the dog park. We loved being a part of this community. Soon after we moved away, our current house came on the market. We came to see it and put in an offer that very same day. After we moved in, we felt like this house was meant for us. There was truly ‘no place like home.’
I have enjoyed being a part of our neighborhood group, assisted by NeighborWorks® Rochester When this logo and sign project came up, I thought that offering my graphic design skills would be a wonderful way to contribute. It has been a pleasure!” -Kristin Ward
Brooks Landing decided to work with Mike Governale who is the Interactive Art Director and Operator of RochesterSubway.com. His work as a graphic designer and his love of the city made him an obvious choice.
“This neighborhood has so many different angles to it; the different cultures, the activity, the great location… and such an exciting future ahead I think. I hope I can capture at least some of that unique flavor and energy. I want to give the neighbors something they can identify with and be proud of. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of this project!” -Mike Governale
The logo designs will be used as a representation of the neighborhoods moving forward. Initially, the logos will be featured on brand new neighborhood signage, including some banners and gateway signs. The funding for this project is provided by a generous grant through Citizen’s Bank.
An unveiling ceremony will take place to celebrate the completion of the project. For more information about the project and Healthy Blocks, please contact Anwar Pickett, the HB Program Manager – apickett@nwcprochester.org.
Kristin Ward: Wayland Publishing, waylandpublishing.com
Mike Governale: www.RochesterSubway.com, mike@rochestersubway.com