You know what the new transmodal station really needs? A sign. Make that two signs. One saying this is the Amtrak Station and one saying it is the Greyhound and other bus station. Seriously, put signs up. For years, those in the offices at the old train depot have had people coming in asking if it is the train station. There was even a sign put up a number of years ago telling train riders that the Amtrak station was two blocks south and still people kept asking. Why? Because the old train depot looks like a TRAIN DEPOT. The new building, while a nice addition to downtown, does not. The only signage currently on the outside of the building is a big one saying "Carbondale".
Given that the now demolished Amtrak station was built back in 1981 and 40 years later people still did not know where it was, putting signage up indicating the new building is now the train and bus depot seems a good idea. One on the building itself and one posted on a light pole out by the street.
I would assume signs will be put up after the last section is finished. Amtrak doesn't officially recognize the station as open because there is still one large very section to be completed. When that is done i expect lots of pomp and circumstance and lots of Illinois and national level officials to join local government in the official grand opening.
ReplyDeleteBanner outside now would be helpful, just to direct people there and away from the old train depot.
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