Oak Park welcome sign needs facelift

OLD VERSUS NEW- Above, city leaders would like to replace the old, worn wooden welcome sign that now stands on Lindero Canyon Road marking the entrance to Oak Park. Below, a sign on stone pilasters like this one at Kanan Road would cost the community $11,000.

Drivers heading north on Lindero Canyon Road know they've entered Oak Park when they notice the narrow, dark wood planks along the right side of the road that say "Welcome to Oak Park."

Community leaders would like to replace the old sign, installed years ago by one of the early developers of the town. The issue was discussed at the April 24 Municipal Advisory Council meeting.

"The wood plank has some damage and is rather old," said MAC member Mike Paule, who oversees public area landscaping for the community.

Several options were considered. A sign on wood posts would cost about $6,000. A sign on stone pilasters matching the Kanan Road Oak Park marker on the opposite side of town would run about $11,000.

"I think it's important when people drive in. It enhances the area and is a form of marketing everyone's home," MAC chair Todd Haines said.

Ventura County Public Works will provide a rendering of a welcome sign on 4by4foot wood posts for review by MAC members, possibly by the May 22 meeting.

"We're always looking for a defining line on Lindero for Oak Park," MAC member Deena Parry said.

- Sophia Fischer