The provincial government of Newfoundland and Labrador is moving toward full implementation of a new highway sign system based on the Tourist-Oriented Directional Signage (TODS) model.

The province's TODS design has not yet been fully developed, but is expected to resemble current 'fingerboard' signs (examples pictured). The new model will use universal symbols and standards to replace the proliferation of unapproved signs along provincially maintained highways.

"Providing clear signage to regional attractions, historic sites and other tourism-oriented businesses is a priority for our government," says Clyde Jackman, minister of tourism, culture and recreation.

The province asked owners of non-compliant and/or unapproved signs to remove them by June 8, 2009, after which point crews from its department of transportation and works began to discard any remaining offenders.

"By removing non-compliant signage, we are beginning the process of establishing a system that is more client-focused and benefits the tourism industry as a whole," says Brian Sparks, the province's chair of hospitality.

The TODS model is already widely used in other parts of Canada to integrate wayfinding for both public and private services and attractions.