HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-062-02.16.2026.docDocusign Envelope ID: DECD8285-8DAE-44FC-BF2E-97A08D8CCAE8
Prepared LeAnn M. Even, Deputy City Clerk, City of Waterloo, 715 Mulberry Street, Waterloo,
IA 50703, (319) 291-4323.
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-062
A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A METROPOLITAN
TRANSIT AUTHORITY "HOW TO RIDE" SIGNAGE POLICY
FOR THE CITY OF WATERLOO.
WHEREAS, the mobility of passengers and the safety, convenience, and comfort of those
individuals choosing to utilize MET Transit services — including people requiring mobility aids,
translation services, visitors, and neighborhood residents of all ages and abilities should all be
considered when planning, designing, and improving Waterloo's passenger transportation
services; and
WHEREAS, integrating accessible educational signage at sidewalks, bicycle facilities,
transit amenities, and safe accommodations for the general public to utilize passenger
transportation is a priority of MET Transit; and
WHEREAS, City owned Right -of Way is a critical component of public space and plays
a major role in establishing the image and identity of a city, providing a key framework for
descriptive signage for the provision of services; and
WHEREAS, streets are a critical component of the success and vitality of adjoining
private uses and neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, a goal of the MET "How to Ride" Signage Policy is to improve the access
and mobility for all users of streets in the community by improving safety through reducing
conflict and encouraging transit usage; and
WHEREAS, it is recognized that there are some streets or corridors in the City which
would function as highly utilized locations for MET "How to Ride" Signage; and
WHEREAS, an agreement as to the terms and conditions for the implementation of this
policy shall be the further responsibility of the Waterloo Mayor and City Council and MET
Transit General Manager and Board of Directors; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Waterloo and MET Transit
hereby adopts the following MET Transit "How to Ride" Signage Policy.
Waterloo, Iowa
MET Transit "How to Ride" Signage Policy
The following elements shall constitute the Waterloo, Iowa MET Transit "How to Ride" Signage
Policy:
Policy statement:
The City of Waterloo (City) and Metropolitan Transit Authority (MET) hereby adopt a
standardized system of educational signage to clearly and consistently inform new and
existing riders about how to use its flag -down transit service. This signage will prioritize
universally understood visuals, plain language, and multilingual translation in key service
areas to ensure accessibility for riders with and without limited English proficiency.
Docusign Envelope ID: DECD8285-8DAE-44FC-BF2E-97A08D8CCAE8
Resolution 2026-062
Page 2
1. Signage design standards
• Visual -first design: All educational signs will use a visual, panel -based narrative that
demonstrates the step-by-step process of using the flag -down service (waiting, signaling,
boarding, and exiting).
• Iconography: Use of a consistent set of universal icons for all signage, such as:
o A person with a raised hand for flag -down
o A hand pulling a cord for stop request
o The standard currency symbol for payment method
• Plain language: Written text will be concise, direct, and limited to a sixth grade reading
level.
• Multilingual content: In areas with identified limited English proficiency populations,
key signs will be translated into the top two non-English languages spoken in the city,
using clear formatting to distinguish between languages and accessed by a QR code
which directs users to a landing page provided by and/or authorized and controlled by
MET Transit.
2. Signage types and placement
• At transfer hubs: Install large infographic signs at major transit centers, hubs, and
terminals to provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to the flag -down service.
• Along the route:
o Place signs nearby and throughout flag -down service areas to clearly indicate
where riders can expect flexible service.
o Post smaller, visual -first signs at key locations and high -traffic pedestrian areas to
reinforce the flag -down process.
o Signage is not an indication of an assigned bus stop
• Inside the vehicle:
o Display decals with simple visual reminders near doors and windows, prompting
riders on how to request a stop.
o Use digital screens (where available) to display the educational visuals and text in
multiple languages.
3. Implementation and maintenance
• Approval process: All signage designs must be reviewed and approved by the MET
General Manager and City Traffic Department Administrative Staff before production
and installation.
• Community engagement: MET will consult with community groups representing diverse
language populations during the design and adoption phases to ensure clarity and cultural
appropriateness.
• Material standards: Signs must be constructed from durable, weather -resistant materials
to ensure longevity and resist vandalism, as approved by the City of Waterloo Traffic
Department.
• Installation and cost responsibilities: The City of Waterloo shall be responsible for the
installation of all signage implemented under this Policy. MET shall be responsible for all
costs associated with the procurement/manufacturing of the signs and the necessary
installation hardware. All materials provided by MET shall be approved by City of
Waterloo Traffic Department.
• Maintenance: MET shall conduct regular inspections to ensure signs are in good
condition, legible, and not obstructed by vegetation or other objects. Any issues identified
during these inspections shall be reported to the City of Waterloo, and any required
repairs or replacements shall be completed at MET's expense.
Docusign Envelope ID: DECD8285-8DAE-44FC-BF2E-97A08D8CCAE8
ATTEST:
,-Signed by:
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Kellleyrelc`hle, City Clerk
Resolution 2026-062
Page 3
4. Policy evaluation
• Performance metrics: MET will track key performance indicators, such as a reduction in
missed stops or an increase in new rider surveys, to measure the success of the
educational signage.
• Review cycle: This policy will be reviewed annually to incorporate new technology,
address community feedback, and ensure its continued effectiveness in serving all riders.
5. Ongoing
In order to ensure consistent and ongoing implementation of this Policy, the City of Waterloo
staff appointees and MET Transit staff appointees will annually attend the quarterly Iowa
Northland Regional Council of Governments Transit Advisory Committee meetings and will
provide recommendations and updates to the City Engineer, City Planning and Programming
Director, and MET Transit General Manager regarding this Policy. The City Engineer, City
Planning and Programming Director, and MET Transit General Manager will then be
responsible for providing formal recommendations to the Mayor, City Council, and MET
Transit Board of Directors for consideration of any future changes to the Policy.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 16th day of February 2026.Signed by:
'-393 8397B3D3421
David�Boesen, Mayor