The city of Ridgefield unveiled a new logo on Thursday – one that’s meant to represent the unique attributes of the growing community.
The new logo is the first of several initiatives that city officials have planned based on the findings of a 2015 branding project, which focused on identifying the story, soul and direction for Ridgefield.
“It’s an exciting time for Ridgefield,” said Steve Stuart, city manager, in a press release. “We are forward-thinking, but rooted in tradition. So when we plan for our city’s next chapters, we want to capture our community’s energy and aspiration, while making sure to understand and hold on to our small town charm and deep connection to the environment. I think this work tells a story true to our place and that gives us a path to accomplish it.”
The branding project, led by Patrick Hildreth Brand & Design, a boutique design company based in Camas, identified three pillars of Ridgefield’s identity:
- Enriching natural environment
- Small town charm and connected, active community
- Inspiring opportunities for residents, visitors and businesses
The pillars will be incorporated into the city’s messaging through its website, brochures, marketing and other avenues of communication.
As for the new logo, it features a typeface that represents the forward and upward movement of the city (one of the fastest-growing cities in the state). A flying Sandhill crane reflects the city’s commitment to the environment and its active community.
The design of the new logo stems from the efforts of a brand advisory panel of local stakeholders as well as feedback from surveys, focus groups and workshops with city council members, residents and representatives from the Port of Ridgefield, the Ridgefield School District, the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and members of the business community.
In an effort to keep expenses down, the city will gradually replace logo items as opposed to an immediate broad replacement.