Smithville Charitable Foundation Awards $10,000 Grant to Daviess County EDC for County-Wide Signage Initiative

Request for Proposals Now Open for Design Firms

Washington, IN — The Smithville Charitable Foundation has awarded a $10,000 grant to the Daviess County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) to kick off the first phase of the Daviess County Gateway & Wayfinding Project. In partnership with the Daviess County Visitors Bureau, DCEDC will launch the Washington Gateway Sign design phase, renewing the city’s most visible entry point.

An image of the current Washington gateway sign.

The Washington sign represents the first step in a larger county-wide signage and wayfinding initiative designed to improve navigation, safety, and community identity throughout Daviess County. This pilot project will help establish consistent design standards and serve as a model for future gateway and directional signage across the county. By creating a cohesive and professional signage system, the initiative aims to strengthen Daviess County’s sense of place, enhance tourism experiences, and support ongoing economic development.

The funding will support design and engineering services to create a durable, visually appealing gateway sign that reflects the character of Washington, leaving a positive first impression for visitors. The Daviess County Visitors Bureau will lead the project coordination and evaluation through its tourism and data-analysis initiatives.

To move forward, DCEDC is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified design firms to provide design services to develop a monument/entry sign for the City of Washington, Indiana. Interested firms can download the RFP from www.VisitDaviessCounty.com with proposals due by November 17, 2025.

“We’re grateful to the Smithville Charitable Foundation for investing in Daviess County’s identity and future,” said Amber Warden, Executive Director of the Daviess County Visitors Bureau. “This collaboration ensures we build something both beautiful and strategic—a gateway that welcomes visitors and residents alike.”

Washington Mayor, David Rhoads shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Getting this grant for the entry sign design will be a great addition to the gateway to the City of Washington. This project will give visitors and residents a welcoming first impression that reflects the progress and pride of our community.”

For more information or to request the RFP, visit

www.VisitDaviessCounty.com or contact [email protected].

Washington Sign RFP.pdf

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