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Burnaby councillor wants 'landmark' Burnaby name sign like Vancouver's

Coun. James Wang says large landmark signs foster civic identity and place branding.
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Burnaby currently does not have a large Instagrammable 'name' sign.

Call it a sign of the times.

Following in the footsteps of its larger next-door neighbour, Vancouver, Burnaby council is pondering a “landmark" City of Burnaby sign to support tourism and community identity.

Coun. James Wang has submitted a motion to next Tuesday’s council meeting to ask staff to investigate the idea.

Wang said large landmark city signs have become features in cities across Canada, including Vancouver, Hamilton and Toronto, and are placed in locations that “foster civic identity, support tourism and provide opportunities for photo-taking that contribute to place branding,” according to the motion.

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The 'Vancouver' sign on the shore of Coal Harbour has been a big hit with visitors and locals as a photo opp. Peter Meiszner/Twitter

The signs can also offer a “unique opportunity to celebrate and promote local artists while reflecting the city’s cultural identity,” Wang said.

The motion asks staff to study the idea, including potential locations and costs.

Council will vote on the matter at its meeting Tuesday, Jan. 10.