Strategic InitiativesAccessible Signage Standards Update
Jul 17, 2024 | 7:44 am
Atkinson Hyperlegible as the new code-compliant university standard typeface for all projects.
Per the Illinois Accessibility Code, specific requirements must be in place for the visual characters of required signs. This state law applies to directional, identification, overhead, wayfinding, parking, and more versions (e.g., stairs, room names, etc.). Required signage needs to have both visual and tactile characters. Alternatively, two separate complementary signs (one visual and one tactile) may be used.
Using Atkinson Hyperlegible
To ensure future Urbana campus projects meet these standards, the F&S Architectural Review Committee recently selected Atkinson Hyperlegible as the new code-compliant university standard typeface. The Braille Institute developed this font to address several issues affecting readers with low vision or related visual impairments.
Atkinson Hyperlegible is an official U. of I. typeface within the updated brand guidelines. It can be downloaded for free on the Strategic Communications and Marketing brand website.
One significant feature of this font is that when zero (Ø) is used, a slash goes right through the 0.
Your Assistance in Expediting the Signage Transition
This typeface will be used for all required signage in all new capital improvement projects, major renovations, and work delivered through Construction Services. College or departmental staff who are managing projects are requested to inform contractors of this change for review and implementation as soon as possible. Also, Atkinson Hyperlegible will be used for required signage in service requests made to F&S Sign Shop.
Based on more than 600 campus facilities and the potential for thousands of impacted signs, the transition to Atkinson Hyperlegible will be phased in gradually. Overall, your assistance in supporting these upgrades will strengthen the university’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive campus and help ensure that individuals have equal access to educational, employment, and engagement opportunities.
For questions, please contact the Architectural Review Committee fsarc@mx.uillinois.edu.
Related Providers
Providers
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) 
The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is involved any time the physical fabric of the campus is considered for alteration. Its mission is to create, review, and maintain comfortable, healthy, safe, and sustainable facilities in support of the academic mission.
Providers
Capital Programs
Capital Programs directs the programming, design, and construction of capital projects with more than a $250,000 total project budget at the University of Illinois.
Providers
Construction Services
Construction Services manages construction, remodeling, and renovation projects typically under $250,000. Some projects with costs exceeding that amount are delivered through the department, but these projects require additional approvals.
