Lower Merion Officials Want To Save Their Signs

LOWER MERION, Pa. (CBS) - An effort is underway in Lower Merion to try to save several thousand historic street signs which have been a staple in the township for nearly 100 years.

The federal government wants communities to install larger, more reflective street signs to make it easier and safer for drivers. Lower Merion officials, however, say that unfunded mandate will destroy the character of the township and cost more than $1.5 million at a time when municipalities are struggling to keep their budgets tight.

Public Works Director Don Cannon said, "We consider the street name signs not just guide signs, they are community markers. When you come into Lower Merion you know you're in Lower Merion because of the type of street sign we have."

Cannon also said the township is working with historical societies and civic associations in an effort to come up with a compromise. "If everybody's unhappy, it must have done something right. So we are trying to find a middle ground as to be able to comply with and/or change some of the compliance requirements," Cannon said.

Lower Merion has sent its concerns on to the federal government in hopes of getting a delay.

Reported by Brad Segall, KYW Newsradio

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