Deptford begins sign-replacement program

The township is encouraging residents to report on any damaged street signs through its sign-replacement program in order to make navigation in the township easier for all.

The program, started by the township’s public works department in January, applies to all municipal-owned street signs, including signs identifying streets, speed limits and stops.

Council also approved the program in January. Mayor Paul Medany posted a video on the township’s YouTube channel and Facebook page informing residents about the program.

“Signage is important in any town, especially for safety reasons,” he explained. “We have over 550 local roads in Deptford Township, and think about that, there are signs on each road. We have 18 square miles (of land) and 75 neighborhoods.”

The sign program can apply to any of the major roads in Deptford, such as Cooper Street and Delsea Drive, and to both small and large neighborhoods.

The best way for residents to make contact with the township regarding signs is by making service requests on the township website. The form will ask for the complete address of a sign, details on what needs servicing and contact information of the person reporting on it.

According to Medany, the township has had quite a few people report on signs so far, with most of those coming from workers within the public works department.

“As the weather gets better, we expect it (the program) to pick up,” he noted. “It is an ongoing project. Residents are good in letting us know when they see something, and we want them to let us know when something needs to be fixed.”

While not part of the program, the township is also asking residents to ensure that the numbers in their addresses are visible on their property, specifically those for emergency services.

“It can literally save a life since it helps emergency services find the house that they need to get to and helps them get there quicker,” said Medany.