SIGNAGE

MANUAL
August 2018
 Contents

0. Introduction
1. Nomenclature and Glossary of Terms 1.0
Amtrak Usage and Style 1.1
Glossary of Terms 1.2
Recommended Abbreviations 1.6
Nomenclature for Platform and Interior Signs 1.7
Nomenclature for Interior Signs 1.8
Nomenclature for Exterior Signs 1.9
Nomenclature for Regulatory Signs 1.10

2. Graphic Components 2.0

The Module 2.1
Arrow Module 2.2
Symbol Module 2.3
Frutiger 55 Roman Text 2.4
Frutiger 65 Bold Text 2.5
Text Module, Visual Characters 2.6
Tactile Characters, Permanent Room
and Space Identification 2.8
Use of Dividers 2.9
Signage System Colors 2.10
Use of Arrows 2.11
Corporate Identity 2.12
Amtrak Specific Symbols 2.13
Passenger Services Symbols 2.14
Public Services Symbols 2.15
Regulatory Symbols 2.16
Symbols of Accessibility 2.17
Preview Bar Symbols 2.18
Other Carriers 2.19
3. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 3.0
History of the Act 3.1
ADA Highlights 3.2
Graphic Overview of the ADA 3.8
4. Platform Signage (A Sign Types) 4.0
5. Interior Signage (B Sign Types) 5.0
6. Exterior Signage (C Sign Types) 6.0
7. Regulatory Signage (D Sign Types) 7.0
8. Electronic Signage (E Sign Types) 8.0

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Contents

(continued)

9. Typical Sign Location Diagrams 9.0

Introduction 9.1
Message Hierarchy 9.2
Historical Buildings 9.3
Typical Platform Diagrams 9.4
Typical Station Diagrams 9.8
10. Recommended Maintenance of Signs 10.0
Maintenance and Parts Replacement 10.1
Cleaning 10.2
Why Coating Systems Fail 10.3
11. Sign Fabrication and Installation 11.0
The Amtrak Paint System 11.1
Graphics Application 11.2
Sign Construction Drawings 11.3
12. Sign Procurement Process 12.0

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 0.1 Introduction

"If you've seen one station, you've seen one station."

All Amtrak stations are different, and each station must be
evaluated and signed individually.
In order to reinforce the Amtrak brand image it is
important that the guidelines outlined in this manual
be followed to maintain signage consistency. When it is
necessary to replace an existing sign or install a new sign
it is important that the personnel responsible consult the
Amtrak Signage Manual and contact Amtrak Signage
Brand Management.
The original manual was developed in 1995 with multi-
departmental coordination within Amtrak and was
designed by McCulley Design Group, LLC (environmental
graphic design services). The McCulley Group, LLC
subsequently revised the original manual in 2001 to
incorporate many of the changes associated with the
introduction of the new Amtrak brand that was unveiled
in 2000.
Calori & Vanden-Eynden, Ltd. prepared subsequent
revisions and this revision of the manual. The 2009 revision
of the Amtrak Signage Manual had many updates and
additions that brought the Amtrak signage system into the
21st Century.
The 2015 revision incorporated new Amtrak branded Sign
Types and vehicular trailblazer signs. The revision also
added an overview of the Department of Transportation
Accessibility Standards (DOTAS) as published in 2004,
amended in 2005, and adopted by the US Department of
Transportation in 2006 requirements for signage. Similar
standards were implemented by the US Department of
Justice in 2010. To contribute to a greener planet, the paint
specifications were updated to VOC compliant formulations
with reduced organic volatile compounds (VOCs).
This 2018 revision further consolidates the many updates
to the Amtrak brand, and clarifies signage standards and
graphic content.

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Introduction
0.2

(continued)

Adherence to the Every day employees, passengers, and the general

Amtrak Signage public form impressions about Amtrak. How Amtrak
Manual not only communicates is a vital expression of its marketplace
maximizes the identity and must support the unique quality of its
visibility of Amtrak people, service and environment. Advertising, sales
stations, but also promotion collateral, architecture, interiors, displays,
greatly increases corporate identity, facility and transportation
the recognition of identification all contribute significantly to the
the Amtrak brand perceived image of Amtrak.
image and enhances All interior/exterior identification components and
the Amtrak market interior space must support and reinforce the brand
presence. image established for Amtrak and its passengers.
The policies in this Of major importance is to give the impression that
manual are required the entire station is unified with understandable
to detail the use of sequences of information.
the Amtrak brand Signage for Amtrak stations establishes a permanent
signature as applied display of the Amtrak corporate identification that
to all Amtrak stations. extends beyond the simple and generic graphic
communicative requirements of a train station.
Signage design and the degree of consistency with
which signs are fabricated and installed in the
stations makes a collective statement to the public
about the character of Amtrak and the level of
service experienced.
The choice of signage materials is largely determined
by the environmental conditions they are expected
to resist and the performance requirements desired.
Materials in this manual have been selected according
to their ability to withstand extreme exposure to sun,
cold, snow and high levels of humidity or rain.
The goal of the Amtrak Signage Manual is to convey a
consistent corporate image of strength and reliability,
reflecting a brand that puts the safety, comfort
and enjoyment of every passenger first. Applied
consistently, the signage will stand for Amtrak and its
role in the travel marketplace. The use of a consistent
graphic system enhances the passenger experience,
providing both real and perceived reassurances at all
phases of the station experience.
This manual is a corporate identity program created
to establish an Amtrak system for national sign
installation and placement guidelines. This system

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 0.3 Introduction

(continued)

as of date of publication will assist in the long-term

strategy required to address conformance with the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA
mandates that all public accommodations and public
facilities be accessible to people with disabilities.
This manual is intended to be used as a whole so it is
important for users to familiarize themselves with its
organization and with its entire contents. For example,
the Sign Type information provided in Chapters 4.0
through 8.0 is complemented and supported by
information in the other chapters.
This manual is organized as follows:
• Chapters 1.0 through 3.0 of this manual contain
important information on the building blocks of the
Amtrak Signage System.
• Chapters 4.0 through 8.0 provide information about
each Amtrak Sign Type, typically presented in four
subject areas: Sign Overview, Mounting Options, Sign
Size and Layout, and Design Intent Drawing.
• Chapter 9.0 outlines sign message hierarchy and
contains diagrams illustrating typical locations of
the various Amtrak sign types at various types of
platforms and stations.
• Chapter 10.0 contains sign maintenance procedures.
• Chapter 11.0 contains information on sign fabrication
and installation.
• Chapter 12.0 outlines the sign procurement process.
In order to control the product and brand quality
of Amtrak signage, signs must be ordered through
Amtrak Signage Brand Management, contact:
[email protected].
The Amtrak Station Program and Planning Guidelines
is also available on the www.GreatAmericanStations.
com site to assist in the planning, design, construction,
rehabilitation and redevelopment of Amtrak-served
stations and related facilities. The Guidelines establish
design standards and criteria for stations, including
platforms, parking and related facilities, and should be
referred to as projects are planned and developed.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 1.1 Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms
Amtrak Usage
and Style

Grammar To avoid confusion

• Messages, typically short phrases or single words used for and ambiguity, all
spaces and services, should be brief. Avoid unnecessary messages in the
words and punctuation. Amtrak Graphic
Signage System must
• When sentences with a subject and verb are used, they be communicated
should be constructed clearly and decisively. Redundancy with clarity and
must be avoided. consistency in
• A positive tone must accompany all messages. The use of terminology, grammar,
“only” should be avoided in messages. and style.

Style The guidelines listed

• For single words and short phrases, a titling style, where in this chapter are to
all words begin with a capital letter except for articles, be followed closely
prepostions, and conjuctions is to be used consistently when developing
throughout the system. messages for Amtrak
signs.
• A sentence style, where the sentence begins with a capital
letter, all subsequent words start with lower case, and ends
with a period, is to be used consistently throughout the
system.
• All ADA Raised Character indentification sign messages are
to be all capital letters.
• All sign messages are to be displayed in non-italic characters.
• Letters and words shall be spaced horizontally according to
guidelines established by the ADA for Visual Charactere and
for Raised Characters.. Text shall not be tightly spaced or
proportinally altered to fit on an improperly sized sign.

Punctuation
• Punctuation should be avoided where possible except when
a sentence style is used.
• Hyphens are not to be used in unconventional ways; they
should not be used in place of a comma, in place of the
word “to” or in place of a dash. Coined words such as
“Drop-off“ and “Smoke-free” must appear hyphenated on
all signs.
• The ampersand (&) is to be used in place of the word “and”
only when connecting two words that belong together
because of their function.

Abbreviations
• Abbreviations are generally to be avoided. Exceptions will
be made in cases of common and widely understood words
displayed with insufficient space. For a list of acceptable
abbreviations refer to page 1.6.
• Abbreviations are to be used without punctuation.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms 1.2
Glossary of Terms

The following Accent Bar: An essential part of most Amtrak signs,

definitions have been it consists of a narrow horizontal stripe of color
compiled to assist placed at the lower end of signs where applicable.
in the process of The Accent Bar is always painted to match AMT Silver.
understanding and Accessibility: The combination of elements within a
applying the Amtrak facility which allows access, circulation and full use of
Signage Manual. the area by persons with disabilities.
ADA: The Americans with Disabilities Act. Signed into
law on July 26, 1990, the ADA is a comprehensive
measure to protect the rights of people with
disabilities.
AMT: Prefix used to identify Amtrak colors specified
throughout the Graphic Signage Standards Manual.
Arrow Field: An essential part of all directional signs,
it consists of a square area determined by the length
of the arrow from base to point. The Arrow Field
determines the placement of an arrow within the
Module and is not reproduced on the actual sign.
Assistive Listening Systems: Products designed to
improve the quality of sound delivered to a listener
with hearing loss, but who can understand speech.
Brandmark: See Travelmark.
Caretaker Stations: Category 3 stations that are
not staffed to provide a ticket office but include an
interior waiting room with restrooms, that are staffed
by an Amtrak caretaker or by another entity.
Custom Message: Messages not included in
the Amtrak nomenclature that provide specific
information about or direct passengers to areas
unique to Amtrak facilities are referred to as “Custom
Messages.” Consistency in the use of grammar, style
and punctuation must be used when compiling such
messages.
Digital Printing: Digital printing refers to a CMYK
process of printing graphics directly onto a variety of
flexible and rigid substrates.
Direction Bar: Used on City Identifiers (A2 Sign
Type), this horizontal message module is used to
display a train’s general path of travel. This module
includes names of major origin/destination cities and
reinforces the train’s direction through the use of
arrows.
DOTAS: Department of Transportation Accessibility
Standards. The ADA standards for Transportation
Facilities, adopted by the US DOT in 2006.
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 1.3 Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms
Glossary of Terms

(continued)

Electronic Signage: Computer or manually

controlled variable message signs that dynamically
display messages on electronic display devices such as
LEDs or Flat Screen Monitors. See PIDS.
Flat Screen Monitor: Typically Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD) screens; used in electronic display systems.
Grade 1 Braille: A letter-by-letter conversion of text
into Braille cells. Also referred to as “simple Braille.”
Grade 2 Braille: Specified by the ADA, this type
of shorthand was developed in 1932 for books and
contains approximately 200 abbreviations, making it
quicker to read than Grade 1 Braille. Contractions are
based on phonetics requiring expertise to translate
and convert messages onto signs. This manual only
specifies Grade 2 Braille.
Grid: A framework of intersecting, equally-spaced
parallel and perpendicular lines applied to the
Module, used as a guide for the placement of graphic
components.
Large Stations: Category 1 stations that are staffed
to provide ticketing, baggage and support services;
have multiple tracks and platforms; and often include
significant retail space and multi-modal services.
LCD: Liquid crystal display; used in electronic display
systems, typically for Flat Screen Monitors.
LED: Light emitting diode; used in electronic display
systems, typically in matrices.
Logo Curve: The combination of the white Amtrak
logo and a curved Amtrak Blue field that creates a
distinctive brand statement on certain Amtrak Sign
Types.
Medium Stations: Category 2 stations that are
staffed to provide ticket offices with minimal staff;
may have multiple tracks and platforms; and provide
limited amenities. Multi-modal service may be
co-located at the facility or nearby.
Module: Based on the grid, the Module is the
background structure applied to all Amtrak sign
layouts.
Permanent Rooms: Rooms and spaces whose
designation will not change. Signage for Permanent
Rooms must comply with DOTAS/ADA sections 703.1,
703.2, 703.5, and with 703.6 where Pictograms identify
Permanent Rooms.

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Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms 1.4
Glossary of Terms

(continued)

Pictogram: See Symbols.

PIDS: Passenger Information Display System. These
electronic display and public address systems provide
passengers with variable information relevant to train
departure, arrival, station services and special notices.
PIDS also serve the purpose of a visual paging system
through free text entries. Also see Visual Messaging
Systems.
Preview Bar: Message module used in directional
signs to display, in pictorial form only, upcoming
services and facilities explained later on additional
signs that include text messages. The Preview Bar
(painted white) incorporates the use of Amtrak
designated Preview Bar Symbols.
Preview Bar Symbols: Commonly recognized
Symbols (painted to match AMT Blue) used to
communicate the locations of upcoming services
without accompanying text.
Raised Character Messages: Messages displayed
in capital letters of at least 5/8 inches in height—not
to exceed 2 inches—and raised 1/32 inch minimum
from the sign surface that can be read using the sense
of touch. Raised Characters are used in combination
with Grade 2 Braille to comply with DOTAS/ADA
regulations for Tactile lettering, and can also serve as
Visual Characters in some situations.
SAD: Department of Justice Standards for Accessible
Design. The ADA standards adopted by the US DOJ in
2010.
Shelter Stations: Category 4 stations that are not
staffed, and include only a shelter and/or platform
canopy to protect passengers from the weather.
Signage: An organized system of signs.
Static Signage: Signs that are manufactured
with solid and stable materials, intended to be
mounted and remain stationary throughout their life
expectancy. Messages on static signs do not vary and
are not displayed electronically.
Station Name: City name (no state abbreviation) plus
the word “Station”, e.g., Dearborn Station

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 1.5 Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms
Glossary of Terms

(continued)

Symbol Module: Circular field in which symbols are

contained. Used to support text messages in signs.
Symbols: A pictorial representation of an object or
activity. Also referred to as pictograms or icons.
Tactile Characters: Characters intended to be read
by the sense of touch, including Raised Characters and
their accompanying Grade 2 Braille equivalent.
Text Telephone: Equipment used to serve
people with hearing and/or speech impairments.
Text telephones employ interactive graphic
communications by transmitting coded signals across a
standard telephone network. Also referred to as TTY.
Travelmark: The Amtrak corporate signature or logo,
consisting of the Amtrak Logotype and Travel Symbol
in one of two fixed relationships: vertical (stacked) or
horizontal.
Visual Messaging Systems: These PIDS signs are
used on platforms and in stations to display station
announcements with equivalent public address
announcements so those with hearing impairments
can be kept informed. The Amtrak Visual Messaging
Systems display messages through the use of LEDs and
flat screen monitors.
Visual Characters: Message characters in interior
spaces intended to be read by the sense of sight.
Visual Characters can also serve as Raised Characters if
they comply with DOTAS/SAD 703.2 and 703.5.
VOC: Volatile Organic Compound. This manual
specifies low VOC paint coatings to reduce
environmental impact and/or to comply with
governing environmental regulations.

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Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms 1.6
Recommended
Abbreviations

Note that the Name Abbreviation

word “Exit” is
intentionally omitted First 1st
for wayfinding use. Second 2nd
The word “Exit” is Third 3rd
only used on paths of
egress as required by Fourth 4th
codes and regulations. Fifth 5th
Such signs are to be Sixth 6th
coordinated with
Seventh 7th
the appropriate
disciplines. Eighth 8th
Ninth 9th
Tenth 10th

Sunday Sun
Monday Mon
Tuesday Tues
Wednesday Wed
Thursday Thurs
Friday Fri
Saturday Sat

Afternoon/Evening pm
Morning am
Weekend Wknd

Maximum Max
Minimum Min

Express Exp

Avenue Ave
Boulevard Blvd
Road Rd
Street St

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 1.7 Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms
Nomenclature
for Platform and
Interior Signs

Proper Amtrak Nomenclature Example

Platform Signs Caution

“City Name, State Abbreviation” Oakland, CA
“Direction/Direction” Los Angeles/Seattle
Elevator
Escalator
Location “Alpha Designator” Location C
Luggage Carts
No Standing
Notice
Stair
To Station
Track “#” Track 4
Warning

Interior Signs Amtrak Express

Amtrak Police
Amtrak’s Metropolitan Lounge
Arrivals/Departures
ATM
Authorized Personnel
Baggage Check-in
Baggage Claim
Baggage Storage
Buses
Customer Service
Elevator
Escalator
Family Restroom
Gate “Alpha Designator” Gate B
Information
Janitor’s Closet
Lockers
Lost and Found
Other transportation systems Metra, Long Island Rail Road, etc.
within facility

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Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms 1.8
Nomenclature
for Interior Signs

(continued)
Proper Amtrak Nomenclature Example

Interior Signs Car Rental Avis, Hertz, etc.

Luggage Carts
Mechanical Room
Men
“Numerical Designator” 1, 2, 3, 4, etc.
Parcel Check
Parking
Parking Garage
Please wait for next available agent.
Private
Quik-Trak
Restaurant
Restroom(s)
Rideshare
Room “#” 222
Shops
Stair
Station Manager
Street or “Street Name”
Taxis
Telephones
Text Telephones
The nearest [“Service”] The nearest text telephone is
is located [“Location”]. located across from Amtrak’s
Metropolitan Lounge
Ticket Window Hours: Ticket Window Hours:
“00:00am - 00:00pm” 6:00am - 11:00pm
Ticketed Passengers Beyond This Point
Tickets
Tickets & Baggage [Check-in] [Claim]
Timetables
To Trains
Trains
Vending
Water Fountain
Women

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 1.9 Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms
Nomenclature
for Exterior Signs

Proper Amtrak Nomenclature Example

Exterior Signs Amtrak Thruway Bus

Amtrak Welcomes You to Amtrak Welcomes You to
“Station Name” Chicago Union Station
These signs are
Station Hours: Station Hours:
to conform with
“00:00am - 00:00pm Days of Week” 4:00am - 11:30pm Mon - Fri
applicable codes and
“00:00am - 00:00pm Alternate 6:00am - 10:30pm Sat - Sun
regulations, and are
to be coordinated Days of Week”
with the appropriate Bicycle Parking
disciplines. Car Rental Avis, Hertz, etc.
Drop-off
Drop-off & Pick-up
Emergency Parking Zone
Employee Parking
Loading Zone
Long-term Parking
Luggage Carts
No Parking
No Parking Between Signs
No Standing
Parking
Parking by Permit
Pet Relief Area
Parking
Pick-up
Red Cap Phone
Reserved Parking
Rideshare
Short-term Parking
Standing Standing
“#” minutes max 10 minutes max
“Station Name” Chicago Union Station,
Orlando Station
Taxis
Line Begins Here
The nearest [“Service”] The nearest accessible
is located [“Location”]. entrance is located
on 7th Avenue.
Visitor Parking

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Nomenclature and
Glossary of Terms 1.10
Nomenclature
for Regulatory Signs

Proper Amtrak Nomenclature Example

Regulatory Signs Amtrak Personnel

Area of Refuge
These signs are Authorized Personnel
to conform with Caution
applicable codes and
regulations, and are Do Not Enter
to be coordinated Fire Extinguisher
with the appropriate
In the event of fire
disciplines.
use stairs.
No Smoking
No Trespassing
Notice
Restricted Area
Smoking Area
Telephone(s)
This is a smoke-free facility/
Warning

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 2.1 Graphic
Components
The Module

8x The module illustrated

on this page is the back-
x
ground structure applied
to all Amtrak sign layouts.
The function of the
x module is to maintain a
common relationship and
unity among all signs.
The module consists of
a grid subdivided into
64 equal units*, eight
units* high and eight
8x units* wide.
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
8x=length of one module
8x=width of one module

Module

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Graphic
Components 2.2
Arrow Module

To establish a rela- 8x
tionship between x
arrow, symbol and text,
the arrow is always
contained within the
x
arrow field. The arrow 1-1/2x
field is determined by
the arrow’s length from
base to point. The height
and width of the arrow
module are five (5) units*
of the module.
8x 5x arrow field
The diagram on this page Point Base
illustrates the placement
of the arrow field within
the module. The arrow
field is for arrow place-
ment only and is not
reproduced on the actual
sign.
The directional arrow
used in this manual was
designed for maximum
legibility under various 5x arrow field 1-1/2x
viewing conditions.
This arrow style has
been adopted by the
International Civil
Aviation Organization
(ICAO). It is recom-
mended for use in inter-
national applications.
For Amtrak arrows see
page 2.11.
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
8x=length of one module
8x=width of one module

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 2.3 Graphic
Components
Symbol Module

8x Symbols have been incor-

x porated into the system
as a supplementary
communication tool.
x Symbols used in this
manual are based on
the “System of Passenger/
Pedestrian Orientation
Symbols” developed
for the U.S. Department
of Transportation by
the American Institute
8x 5x CL 6x
placement symbol of Graphic Arts and the
margin field Society of Environ­mental
Graphic Design’s symbols
of accessibility.
In some cases, symbols
have been modified to
meet particular Amtrak
needs. These new symbols
are the exclusive property
of Amtrak and the
services they represent.
CL
To continue the relation-
ship between arrow,
symbol and text, the
symbol is always con­tained
within a symbol field. The
symbol field consists of
a circle with a diameter
equivalent to six (6) units*
of the module.
The diagram on this page
illustrates the placement
of the symbol field within
the module. The symbol
is centered within the
margin illustrated by the
dotted line and is equiva-
lent to five (5) units* of
the module. For Amtrak
symbols see pages 2.13-
2.18.
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
8x=length of one module
8x=width of one module

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.4
Frutiger 55 Roman
Text

ABCDEFGHIJKLMN
The Frutiger 55 Roman
typeface is the standard
typeface for Amtrak
sign text. It is easy to
read and understand.
Clear and recognizable,
OPQRSTUVWXYZ
Frutiger 55 Roman meets
DOTAS/SAD guidelines
abcdefghijklmn
o p q r s t u v w x y z
for both Raised and
Visual Characters.
Frutiger is a sans serif
type family designed
in the humanistic style,
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
making it compatible
with both historical and Frutiger 55 Roman (Frutiger 55) style
contemporary station
designs.
Frutiger 55 Roman is
used on permanent and
temporary signage for Character Spacing (Tracking)
Amtrak facilities. Frutiger 55 Roman should never be letterspaced more tightly
Frutiger 55 Roman is to (negative) than “Track 0” or “Normal”, and may require more
be used on sign faces open (positive) tracking to meet DOTAS/SAD character spacing
only when specified in guidelines for Raised Characters and for Visual Characters.
the design intent draw-
ings provided in this
manual for each Sign
Type.
The alphabet shown
here is for reference
only; it should not be
used for reproduction or
as final “artwork”. No
other Frutiger font (light,
condensed, italic, etc.)
should be substituted for
Frutiger 55 Roman.

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 2.5 Graphic
Components
Frutiger 65 Bold Text

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNO The Frutiger 65 Bold

typeface is used on
permanent and tempo-
PQRSTUVWXYZ rary signage for Amtrak
facilities. Frutiger 65
Bold meets DOTAS/SAD
abcdefghijklmno guidelines for Visual
Characters only and

p q r s t u v w x y z should not be used for

Raised Characters.
Frutiger 65 Bold is to be
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 used on sign faces only
when specified in the
design intent drawings
Frutiger 65 Bold (Frutiger 65) style provided in this manual
for each Sign Type.
The alphabet shown
here is for reference
only; it should not be
Character Spacing (Tracking) used for reproduction or
Frutiger 65 Bold should never be letterspaced more tightly as final “artwork”. No
(negative) than “Track 0” or “Normal”, and may require more other Frutiger font (light,
open (positive) tracking to meet DOTAS/SAD character spacing condensed, italic, etc.)
guidelines for Raised Characters and for Visual Characters. should be substituted for
Frutiger 65 Bold.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.6
Text Module,
Visual Characters

To continue the rela- 8x

tionship between arrow,
x
symbol and text, all text
messages are placed
on the module. Several
factors must be consid-
ered in establishing the 2x
placement and size of
text:
Line hangs from
a. T
 he size of the module this point

b. T
 he length of the
message
8x 4x
c. The specific Sign Type
One-line Message
Signs
Text size refers to the
size of capital letters
(cap height) and is deter-
mined by the measure of
four (4) units* within the
module.
Text Module: One Line Message
The text message hangs a
distance of two (2) units*
from the top of the
module and is flushed
left from a margin of
one (1) unit* as illus-
trated here.
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
8x=length of one module
8x=width of one module
Comment
Use square capital letters
such as E or I for cap
height measurement, not
round letters like C or
O because round letters
are designed to be larger
than square letters for
optical balance.

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 2.7 Graphic
Components
Text Module,
Visual Characters

(continued)

8x Two-line Message
Signs
x
Text size refers to the
size of capital letters
Line hangs from (cap height) and is deter-
x this point mined by the measure of
two (2) units* within the
module.
3x The text messages hang
a distance of one (1)
unit* from the top of the
Line hangs from
this point
module and are flushed
8x left from a margin of
one (1) unit* as illus-
trated.
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
8x=length of one module
8x=width of one module
Three-line Message
Signs
Text Module: Two Line Message Text size refers to the size
of lower case letters
8x
(x-height) and is deter-
mined by the measure of
x one (1) unit* within the
module.

Line hangs from The messages hang a

x distance of one (1) unit*

Line 1
this point
from the top of the
module and are flushed
2x left from a margin of
Line hangs from one (1) unit* as illus-

Line 2
this point
trated.
*x=length of one unit
8x 2x *x=width of one unit
Line hangs from
8x=length of one module

Line 3
this point
8x=width of one module
Note that the cap height
1x = x-height
for Frutiger is 1.3686
times the x-height, for
example the cap height
for a 9/16" x-height is
just over 3/4".
Text Module: Three Line Message

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.8
Tactile Characters,
Permanent
Room and Space
Identification

Signage identifying Length of sign is variable

Permanent Rooms and x
Spaces, whose designation
will not change, including x 3/8” min.
platform city/state and
curbside station entrance
identifiers, must display
2x
RAISED 1 Raised Characters
All Caps 5/8” min.
Frutiger 55 Roman

RAISED 2
9x**
Tactile Characters.
Raised Character messages
3/8” min.
must be all upper case 2x
Grade 2 Braille
letters with a capital letter

4'-0" min. (48") from floor

5'-0" min. (60") from floor

x 3/8” min.
height of at least 5/8”, but
not exceeding 2” and must Raised Characters and Grade 2 Braille
be raised a minimum of
1/32” from the sign surface.
The Frutiger 55 Roman
typeface is used for all Raised Character spacing shall be open per DOTAS/SAD
Raised Character messages 703.2.7. The minimum spacing between the closest points
within the Amtrak Graphic of any two adjacent Raised Characters shall be 1/8”; the
Signage System. maximum shall be 4 times stroke thickness.
All Raised Character ** 3” module height must be increased to 3 3/8” (9x) to
messages must be accom- conform to DOTAS/SAD Section 703.3.2. Other Amtrak
panied by their Grade 2 module sizes do not require this height adjustment
Braille equivalent. Braille
words are to be capital-
ized per DOTAS/SAD
703.3.1. Considerable
care must be taken to
translate messages appro-
priately, and differentiate
them from Grade 1 Braille.
It is recommended that a
Braille proofreader verify
final artwork before sign
fabrication.
Braille dots shall have
a domed or rounded
shape and shall
comply with DOTAS/
SAD Table and Figure
703.3.1 (see www.ada.
gov.2010ADAstandards_
index.htm).
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
**9x=length of one
module
**9x=width of one
module
2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©
 2.9 Graphic
Components
Use of Dividers

Divider Square
The divider square is a

City Name
graphic component of A2
Sign Types (City Identifier
with Direction Bar). It is
used to separate opposing
directions (indicated by
the name of origin/desti-
nation cities) of the train

Direction Direction
at a given station stop.
The size of the divider
square is determined by
the value of 2 units* (2x)
2x of the given sign module.

Sign Module
Divider Line

Message Line 1 Divider lines are horizon-

tal guides used on most
Amtrak signs to differen-
tiate between modules

Message Line 2
with changes in direc-
tional arrows.
The Sign Module Divider
Line is always painted to

Message Line 3
contrast with the back-
ground color of the sign
module it is positioned
on, and is always 1/8”
in thickness.

Preview Bar
Divider Line
Divider lines used in
Message Line 1 Preview Bars are verti-
cal guides used to sepa-
rate Preview Symbols
grouped by a common
directional arrow. Preview
Bar Divider lines are 1/4”
thick, and are painted to
match AMT Blue.
*x=length of one unit
*x=width of one unit
8x=length of one module
8x=width of one module

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.10
Signage System
Colors

The following paint and Satin AMT Blue* Satin Silver** Satin Scarlet Red***
color specifications have
been provided to ensure Matthews Paint Matthews Paint Matthews Paint
consistency in color VOC# VOC# VOC#
throughout the Amtrak SVOC1142SP MP18073 SVOC1340SP
Graphic Signage System.
Colors used for Amtrak Avery® Ultimate Cast 3MTM ScotchcalTM 3MTM ScotchcalTM
signs have been speci- Opaque Film ControltacTM Film ControltacTM Film
fied to match Matthews Majestic Blue Light Silver Metallic Geranium 7725-63
Paint, which is specially UC 900-625-O 180C-220 (Opaque Vinyl) (Opaque Vinyl)
formulated for the sign
industry. For additional Arlon Calon® Series 3MTM ScotchcalTM
information on the 2500 Translucent Reflective Vinyl
Amtrak Paint System Vinyl Film Ruby Red 680-82
refer to page 11.1. 2051 Blue
Vinyl material usage
* For other applications ** For other applications *** For other applications
is discouraged unless
such as digital printing, such as digital printing, such as digital print-
specified on the design
use Pantone 302C for use Pantone Premium ing, use Pantone 485 for
intent drawing for each
AMT Blue. Metallic Silver 10077C for Scarlet Red.
Sign Type or for unique
Silver
situations, such as over-
head signs with change-
able copy, subject to Satin White Satin Black Satin Clear Coat
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management approval.
Matthews Paint Matthews Paint Matthews Paint
Reference numbers for VOC# VOC# VOC#
vinyl materials from vari- SV202SP SV923SP 281228
ous manufacturers have
been included for closest 3MTM ScotchcalTM 3MTM ScotchcalTM
color matching to paint ElectrocutTM Film ElectrocutTM Film
colors. White 7725-10 Black 7725-12
The environmental (Opaque Vinyl) (Opaque Vinyl)
regulations of some
states require the 3MTM ScotchcalTM 3MTM ScotchcalTM
use of Low Volatile ElectrocutTM Film ElectrocutTM Film
Organic Compound Matte White 7725-20 Matte Black 7725-22
(VOC) paints. To (Opaque Matte Vinyl) (Opaque Matte Vinyl) Comments
promote better air • Reflective vinyl films
quality nationwide, 3MTM ScotchliteTM 3MTM ScotchliteTM
with prismatic or
Amtrak has adopted Reflective Vinyl Reflective Vinyl
White 680-10 Black 680-85 diamond-shaped
the use of low VOC patterns should not be
paints for all its (Reflects White)
used on Amtrak signs.
signage.
• Ultraviolet radia-
tion tends to bleach
the color from signs
exposed to the sun.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 2.11 Graphic
Components
Use of Arrows

The arrow must be used

consistently throughout
all sign applications.
It provides information
regarding direction.
The various positions
for possible use of the
arrow are illustrated on
Up and/or Straight Down To the Right this page.
Ahead
Note that the use of
the “U-Turn” arrow is
prohibited on Amtrak
signage.

To the Left Down to the Left Down to the Right

Up to the Left Up to the Right

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.12
Corporate Identity

The Amtrak corporate 1a) Amtrak® Travelmark

brand is symbolic of the (Horizontal Format)
promise that Amtrak
makes as an organization
to its passengers, stake-
holders, opinion leaders
and employees. It is a
manifestation of all of the
different aspects that come
together to create the
"Amtrak Experience".
Signs that incorporate
the use of the Amtrak
Travelmark are to be
displayed according to
these standards. For
authorized artwork
and guidelines for the 1b) Amtrak® Travelmark
corporate brand contact (Vertical Format)
BrandManagment@amtrak.
com.
The brand identity signa-
ture features a Travelmark
whose shape, convergent
lines, and suggestion of
movement capture the
excitement of the travel
experience, also reflecting
the company's growing
strength and reliabil-
ity. The custom designed
Amtrak lettering repre-
sents a corporation that
puts safety, comfort and
enjoyment of every passen-
ger first. Applied consis-
tently, the Amtrak brand
signature will stand for the * Indicates Exclusion Zone, which is the width of Amtrak logo “M”.
Amtrak role in the travel The Exclusion Zone defines the minimum margins around the logo.
marketplace. The horizon-
tal format (1a) is preferred
for signage.
Amtrak is a regis-
tered service mark of
the National Railroad
Passenger Corporation. For
permanent signage the ®
symbol is omitted for the
Travelmark except when
used on a co-branded sign.
2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©
 2.13 Graphic
Components
Amtrak Specific
Symbols

2) Acela Express® The Corporation owns

other registered marks
including Amtrak’s
Metropolitan Lounge®,
Auto Train®, Amtrak®
Express, Superliner®,
Amfleet®, Acela Express®,
etc. While these marks
are accompanied with
the ® designation in
3) Amtrak® print applications, the
Metropolitan ® is not included on
Lounge® signage.
These symbols refer to
unique services provided
by Amtrak. In some
cases they incorporate
the corporate name,
4) Amtrak® logotype, symbol or
Express corporate colors.
Shipping
Symbols have been
numbered to assist in
the ordering process.

5) Amtrak®
Thruway
Bus

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.14
Passenger Services
Symbols

These symbols refer to

services provided within
stations available to
Amtrak customers. They
identify services such as
the purchase of tickets
and assist in passenger 6) Tickets 7) Baggage 8) Tickets and 9) Waiting Area
and baggage processing. Check-in Baggage
Symbols have been Check-in
numbered to assist in
the ordering process.

10) Customer 11) Information 12) Baggage Claim 14) Baggage

Services Storage

15) Lockers 16) Parcel Check 17) Luggage Carts 18) Buses

19) Taxis 20) Rideshare 21) Buses 22) Trains

and Taxis

23) Car Rental 24) Passenger 25) Passenger 26) Passenger

Drop-off Pick-up Drop-off and
Pick-up

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 2.15 Graphic
Components
Public Services
Symbols

These symbols identify

services available for the
comfort of the general
public. They appear
on signs within station
environments and refer to
27) Telephone(s) 28) Restaurant 29) Water 30) Lost & station services generally
Fountain Found not specific to train travel.
*Public Services symbols
displayed without
accompanying text.
**Accessible restrooms
shall be identified with
the international symbol
31) Shops 32) ATM* 33) Vending 34) Restrooms of accessibility when
or Unisex required. For additional
Restroom** information refer to
Chapter 3.0.
Symbols have been
numbered to assist in
the ordering process.

35) Women** 36) Men** 37) Family 38) Diaper

Restroom Changing
Facility

39) Nursing 40) Escalator(s) 41) Escalator 42) Escalator

Facility (Up) (Down)

43) Stairs 44) Stairs (Up) 45) Stairs (Down) 46) Non-
Accessible
Elevator

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.16
Regulatory Symbols

These symbols appear on

signs that are mandatory
in station environments.
Regulatory symbols
display rules-of-order for
conduct or prohibited
activity as stated by local 47) Parking 48) No Parking 50) Caution
49) Bicycle Parking
regulations, building Notice
owners or other
authorities. They exist
mainly to warn and
protect people against
danger. They are also
used on signs informing
people of procedures
such as traffic control 51) Do Not Enter 52) Exit 53) Smoking Area 54) Smoke-free
and exits. Regulatory Area
symbols also provide
information about
procedures in the event
of emergencies such as
fire.
Symbols have been
numbered to assist in
the ordering process. 55) Fire 56) In the Event 57) No 58) No
Extinguisher of Fire Skateboarding Rollerblading
Use Stairs

59) No
Bicycling

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 2.17 Graphic
Components
Symbols of
Accessibility

These symbols display

services available to
people with disabilities.
They appear on signs
that direct or identify
special services within
60) Symbol of 61) Text 62) Adjustable 63) Assistive station environments.
Accessibility Telephone Volume Listening Symbols have been
(TTY) Telephone
numbered to assist in
the ordering process.

64) Accessible
Elevator(s)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Graphic
Components 2.18
Preview Bar Symbols

The Preview Bar is a

communication device
used in directional signs
to display in pictorial
form only, the general
direction of the services
most frequently asked
5) Amtrak 11) Information* 18) Buses* 19) Taxis*
about. Thruway Bus*
Preview symbols are
easily-recognized symbols
(painted to match AMT
Blue) used to direct
towards upcoming
services without
accompanying text.
21) Buses 22) Trains* 27) Telephone(s)* 34) Restroom(s)*
The Amtrak-selected and Taxis*
Preview Bar symbols
(easily-recognized
symbols) to be used
within the Preview
Bar are shown here. It
is recommended that
Preview Bar symbols
35) Women* 36) Men* 60) Symbol of
be kept to a maximum
Accessibility*
of three (3) within the
Preview Bar.
In instances where other
transportation carriers
share facilities with
Amtrak, the logo of the
transportation agency
may be included in
Preview Bar.
*Symbols displayed
without accompanying
text when placed within
the Preview Bar.
Symbols have been
numbered to assist in
the ordering process.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 2.19 Graphic
Components
Other Carriers

Co-branding
Opportunities

In instances where other

carriers share facilities
and services with
Amtrak, co-branding
opportunities for
intermodal connections
are created.
In Amtrak owned or
operated facilities the
Amtrak brand should be
more prominent than
other carriers and should
be at the top and/or the
left of the sign layout.
Co-branding at Amtrak Facility
In facilities owned or
operated by others, the
Amtrak logo should be in
proportion to the logos
of the other carriers and
TRANSIT should be at the bottom
or the right of the sign
layout.
Co-branding at Another Carrier’s Facility

Co-branding at Another Carrier’s Facility

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 3.1 The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
History of the Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act The ADA mandates

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed that places of work
into law on July 26, 1990. This civil rights legislation and play be inclusive
provides equal access and opportunities to all Americans to all and that spaces
with disabilities. be made accessible
to all Americans with
The ADA’s Title II regulations apply to state and local disabilities.
governments, the Title III regulations apply to public
A graphic overview of
accommodations and commercial facilities, and the ADA
the ADA requirements
design guidelines apply to the built environment. The
has been included
original final rules and design guidelines were published in this chapter
in the Federal Register of July 26, 1991. to illustrate the
Revised rules and guidelines were published in the application of these
Federal Register on September 15, 2010. These revised requirements. It
standards were adopted by the US Department of Justice is important to
(DOJ), effective March 15, 2011 with conformance remember that design
required starting on March 15, 2012. and con­struction
requirements are only
The US Department of Transportation (DOT) adopted the a small part of the
revised rules and guidelines, effective November 29, 2006. ADA.
The DOT Accessibility Standards (DOTAS) were based
Technical assistance
on updated guidelines issued by the US Access Board
concerning the 2010
as published in the Federal Register July 23, 2004 and
ADA Standards for
amended August 5, 2005, with the exception of minor Accessible Design
DOT modifications. The revised DOJ and DOT standards (SAD) is available at
regarding signage are the same, but were adopted the DOJ’s toll-free ADA
earlier by the DOT. Both DOJ and DOT standards are Information Line at:
available at www.access-board.gov. 800-514-0301 (Voice)
The DOJ’s 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design or 800-514-0383
(SAD) update access requirements for a wide range of (TTY). Publications
facilities in the public and private sectors covered by the and technical
law. Revisions have been made so that the guidelines assistance materials
can be viewed and
continue to meet the needs of people with disabilities
downloaded at
and keep pace with technological innovations. The
www.ada.gov/
standards also feature a new format and organization
ta-pubs-pg2.htm.
and have been extensively edited for greater clarity.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
3.2
ADA Highlights

The following Sections of the new guidelines applicable to signage

pages highlight include:
important points
• 216 (Signs-Scoping)
addressed by the
• 218 (Transportation Facilities-Scoping)
current Department
• 307 (Protruding Objects)
of Transportation
• 407 (Elevators)
Accessibility Standards
(DOTAS) and the • 502.6 (Parking Spaces-Identification)
ADA Standards for • 703 (Signs)
Accessible Design • 810 (Transportation Facilities)
(SAD) regarding • The new standards include substantive changes to
signage. The current these sections, particularly 216 and 703.
guidelines are
Local Building Codes and ADA
available at www.ada.
gov. Many state and local building codes, including Title
24—the California State Building Code—contain
These highlights
requirements pertaining to accessibility. In some
serve as a reference
cases, the accessibility requirements of these state
and explain how
and local codes may exceed those of the ADA. It
the Amtrak Graphic
is recommended that all state and local codes be
Signage System
conforms with the consulted so signs conform with such codes as well as
current regulations. with the ADA. It is also recommended that state and
The actual ADA local code enforcement officials be contracted for up
standards, as well as to date information on coordination of the ADA with
state and local codes, state and local codes.
should always be
Technical Requirements
consulted in addition
The following requirements conform with
to these highlights.
the current Department of Transportation
State and local codes, Accessibility Standards (DOTAS) as published
such as California in 2004, amended in 2005, and adopted by
Title 24, may have the US Department of Transportation in 2006.
more stringent These standards were implemented by the US
requirements than Department of Justice in 2010. The current
the minimum standards make a notable distinction between
requirements of the Tactile (Raised Characters and Braille) and Visual
ADA guidelines. Characters, as explained in DOTAS/SAD 703.1.
Scoping section 216 also provides important
information on the applicability of the technical
requirements of DOTAS/SAD section 703.

Raised Character Requirements (DOTAS/SAD

703.2)
• Raised Character messages are required for
Permanent Room Identifiers. These messages
shall appear exclusively in upper case letters in
Frutiger 55 Roman. Raised Characters shall be 1/32“
minimum above their background.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 3.3 The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
ADA Highlights

(continued)

• Frutiger 55 Roman complies with the character

and stroke width parameters required for Raised
Characters by DOTAS/SAD: The characters are sans
serif, the character width of the uppercase “O”
is within 55 percent minimum and 110 percent
maximum of the height of the uppercase “I”, and
the stroke thickness of the uppercase “I” is within
15 percent maximum of the character height.
• Raised Characters shall not be italic, oblique,
script, highly decorative, or of other unusual
forms. Raised Character height measured vertically
from the baseline of the character shall be 5/8“
minimum and 2“ maximum based on the height of
the uppercase letter “I”.
• Raised Character spacing shall be measured
according to guidelines established in DOTAS/SAD
703.2.7. The minimum spacing between the closest
points of any two adjacent Raised Characters shall
be 1/8”; the maximum shall be 4 times stroke
thickness.
• Spacing between the baselines of separate lines of
Raised Characters within a message shall be 135
percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of
the Raised Character height.
• Raised Characters should not have sharp or
abrasive edges.

Braille Requirements (DOTAS/SAD 703.3)

• Raised Character messages shall be accompanied
by Grade 2 Braille message equivalents. Braille dots
shall have a domed or rounded shape and shall
comply with DOTAS/SAD Table 703.3.1.
• For Braille dimensions and capitalization, refer to
text of DOTAS/SAD section 703.3.1, and to Table
703.3.1 and Figure 703.3.1.
• Braille shall be positioned below the corresponding
Raised Character text. If text is multi-lined, Braille
shall be placed below the entire text. Braille shall
be separated 3/8“ minimum from any other Tactile
Characters and 3/8“ minimum from raised borders
and decorative elements.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
3.4
ADA Highlights

(continued)

Height to Finish Floor

Horizontal
or Ground From Minimum Character Height
Viewing Distance
Baseline of Character
less than 72
5/8 inch (16 mm)
40 inches (1015 mm) to inches (1830 mm)
less than or equal to 70 5/8 inch (16 mm), plus 1/8 inch (3.2
72 inches (1830
inches (1780 mm) mm) per foot (305 mm) of viewing
mm) and greater
distance above 72 inches (1830 mm)
less than 180
Greater than 70 inches 2 inches (51 mm)
inches (4570 mm)
(1780 mm) to less than
2 inches (51 mm), plus 1/8 inch (3.2
or equal to 120 inches 180 inches (4570
mm) per foot (305 mm) of viewing
(3050 mm) mm) and greater
distance above 180 inches (4570 mm)
less than 21 feet
3 inches (75 mm)
(6400 mm)
Greater than 120
3 inches (75 mm), plus 1/8 inch (3.2
inches (3050 mm) 21 feet (6400 mm)
mm) per foot (305 mm) of viewing
and greater
distance above 21 feet (6400 mm)

DOTAS/SAD Table 703.5.5 Visual Character Height

SEGD Interior Visual Character Size Chart Based on DOTAS/SAD Table

703.5.5 (Courtesy of SEGD.org)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 3.5 The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
ADA Highlights

(continued)

Visual Character Requirements (DOTAS/SAD 703.5, Comments

per DOTAS/SAD scoping section 216.3, these Characters can perform
requirements apply to interior signs) as both Raised Characters
• Frutiger 55 Roman and Frutiger 65 Bold typefaces shall and Visual Characters
be used on all Amtrak signs with Visual Characters. provided they meet
The selected typefaces conform with the character and the more stringent
stroke width parameters required for Visual Characters requirements of each.
by DOTAS/SAD: The character width of the uppercase
“O”s are within 55 percent minimum and 110 percent
maximum of the height of the uppercase “I”s, and
the stroke thickness of the uppercase “I”s are within
10 percent minimum and 30 percent maximum of the
character height.
• Visual Characters shall be uppercase or lowercase
or a combination of both. Visual Characters shall be
conventional in form. Visual Characters shall not be
italic, oblique, script, highly decorative, or of other
unusual forms.
• Minimum required Visual Character height of primary
interior directional, informational, and destination
messages varies, based on mounting height and
viewing distance, and shall conform with minimum
character heights indicated in DOTAS/SAD Table
703.5.5 on page 3.4.
• Visual Character spacing between individual characters
shall be 10 percent minimum and 35 percent
maximum of character height.
• Spacing between the baselines of separate lines
of Visual Characters within a message shall be 135
percent minimum and 170 percent maximum of the
Visual Character height.

Pictograms or Symbols (DOTAS/SAD 703.6)

• Where Pictograms are provided as designations of
permanent interior rooms and spaces (Permanent
Room Identifiers), the Pictogram shall have a
minimum field height of 6” and shall be accompanied
by a Tactile (Raised Characters and Braille) text
descriptor directly below the Pictogram field, but not
within the Pictogram field.
• Per scoping section Advisory 216.2, Pictograms that are
used to provide information about a room or space,
such as “No Smoking” and the International Symbol of
Accessibility, are not required to have text descriptors.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
3.6
ADA Highlights

(continued)

• Per California Title 24, men’s restrooms shall be

identified by an equilateral triangle 1/4” thick with
edges 12” long and a vertex pointing upward.
Women’s restrooms shall be identified by a circle
1/4” thick and 12” in diameter. Unisex restrooms
shall be identified by a 1/4” thick equilateral triangle
superimposed over a 1/4” thick 12” diameter circle.

Finish and Contrast

• Visual Characters, Pictograms, and backgrounds shall
have a non-glare finish.
• Visual Characters and Pictograms shall contrast with
their field, with either a light figure on a dark field or
a dark figure on a light field.

Sign Mounting
• In circulation paths, signs mounted within 27” from
the floor to 80” from the floor shall not protrude more
than 4” from the wall surface or 12” from freestanding
posts or pylons.
• The lowest edge of freestanding signs spanning two
(2) posts greater than 12” apart shall be 27” maximum
or 20” minimum above the floor or ground.
• 
Large interior and exterior Visual Character signs
projected or suspended overhead shall be mounted at
a minimum clearance of 80” from floor to bottom of
sign. Interior Visual Character sign mounting heights in
this manual are based on DOTAS/SAD Table 703.5.5 on
page 3.4.
• In interior environments, baselines of Visual Characters
shall be 40“ minimum above finish floor or ground
surface. Refer to DOTAS/SAD Table 703.5.5 and SEGD
chart on page 3.4 for guidelines on interior Visual
Character character heights based on mounting height
and viewing distance.
• 
For Permanent Room Identifiers and other Tactile
Character signs, Tactile Characters shall be located 48“
minimum above the finish floor or ground surface,
measured from the baseline of the lowest Tactile
Character, and 60“ maximum above finish floor or
ground surface, measured from the baseline of the
highest Tactile Character. Note that Tactile Characters
include both Raised Characters and their accompanying
Grade 2 Braille. Tactile Character sign mounting heights
in this manual are per DOTAS/SAD Section 703.4.1.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 3.7 The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
ADA Highlights

(continued)

• 
Where a Permanent Room Identifier is provided at a
door, the sign shall be located alongside the door at
the latch side. Where a Permanent Room Identifier
is provided at double doors with one active leaf, the
sign shall be located on the inactive leaf.
• 
Where a Permanent Room Identifier is provided at
double doors with two active leafs, the sign shall be
located to the right of the right-hand door. Where
there is no wall space at the latch side of a single door
or at the right side of double doors, Permanent Room
Identifiers shall be located on the nearest adjacent
wall.
• 
Permanent Room Identifiers at doors shall be located
so that a clear floor space of 18” minimum by 18”,
centered on the Tactile Characters, is provided beyond
the arc of any door swing between the closed position
and 45 degree open position. See page 3.9.

Public Services
• 
Text Telephones (TTY), Volume Control Telephones and
Assistive Listening Systems shall be designated with
a sign and shall be identified by the corresponding
symbol. Directional signage indicating the location
of available Text Telephones is required at banks of
telephones where these services are not provided.
• 
If all entrances to a facility are not accessible,
accessible entrances shall be identified with the
International Symbol of Accessibility. Directional signs
that indicate the nearest accessible entrance shall
be provided at all non-accessible entrances. Similar
guidelines apply to restroom facilities.
• 
Signs identifying accessible parking shall include the
International Symbol of Accessibility and shall not be
obscured by parked vehicles. Signs identifying van
accessible spaces shall contain the designation “Van
Accessible”. See page 3.10 for accessible parking sign
mounting heights.
• 
Permanent interior signs providing information about
or direction to services and areas within a facility shall
comply with DOTAS/SAD 703.5. Per the exceptions in
scoping section 216.1, building directories, occupant
names, company names and logos, building addresses,
and signs considered temporary are exempt.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
3.8
Graphic Overview
of the ADA

Diagram Reference
Numbers:
Visual Character
Requirements
1) Frutiger typeface
Tickets & Baggage Check-in
with variable capital Trains
letter height and
upper and lower 1 5 7
case letters. Refer to
DOTAS/SAD interior
Visual Character table

6'-8" min. (80") / 9'-0" max.

703.5.5 on page 3.4.

8'-0" recommended
Raised Character and
Braille Requirements
2) Permanent Room
Identifier with 1/32”
Raised Characters in all
upper case and Grade
2 Braille.
Pictograms or Symbol
3) Permanent Room
Identifier with
Pictogram in 6”
high field and text
descriptor with 1/32”
Raised Characters
in all uppercase and
Grade 2 Braille below
pictogram field.
4) California Title 24:
Example of restroom
identifier with 1/4”
thick equilateral
triangle (Men)
superimposed over
1/4” thick 12” diameter
circle (Women).
Finish and Contrast
5) Amtrak Signs painted
to match AMT Blue,
Silver and White
provide the necessary
contrast required for
readability. Paint and
clear coat finishes have
been specified as satin
or eggshell (non-glare).

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 3.9 The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
Graphic Overview
of the ADA

(continued)

Sign Mounting
9
6) Amtrak signs mounted
between 27” and 80”
45°
18" above the floor shall
not protrude more
than 4” from walls or
12” from posts.
CL Centered on 7) Projected or sus­pen­­ded
Tactile Characters signs are mounted
80” minimum above
18"
Plan View the floor.
8) Permanent Room
Identifiers shall be
located 48“ minimum
above the finish floor
or ground surface,
9" min. 9" min. measured from the
baseline of the lowest
Tactile Character and
Tactile CL CL Tactile
60“ maximum above
Characters Characters
finish floor or ground
4 surface, measured
CL from baseline of
2 5 6
3 5 6 the highest Tactile
8 9
8 9 Character, and shall be
AUTHORIZED
PERSONNEL
ONLY
RESTROOM

placed at the latch side

of door.
to 5'-0" (60") max.
4'-0" (48") min.
5'-0" (60") max.
4'-0" (48") min.

6'-8" (80")

9) Permanent Room
Identifiers shall be
located so that a
clear floor space of
18” minimum by 18”
minimum, centered on
Tactile Characters, is
provided beyond the
arc of any door swing
between the closed
position and the 45
degree open position.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
3.10
Graphic Overview
of the ADA

(continued)

Public Services 10 10 10 11 12

10) Text Telephones,

Volume Control
Telephones and
Assistive Listening
Systems are to be Text Adjustable Assistive Symbol of
identified with Telephone Volume Listening Accessibility
signage including the (TTY) Telephone
corresponding symbols.
11) If all entrances to
a facility are not
accessible, accessible
entrances shall be
identified with the
International Symbol
of Accessibility.
Directional signs that
indicate the nearest
accessible entrance
shall be provided
at all non-accessible
entrances. Similar
guidelines apply to Reserved
Parking

restroom facilities.

5 11

CL
5'-0" minimum for visibility

AMT 01

Sign Type B15a

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 3.11 The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
Graphic Overview
of the ADA

(continued)

5 12 12) Accessible parking

spaces shall be
Reserved
identified with the
Parking
International Symbol
of Accessibility. Local
CL
jurisdictions may

Post mounted: 6'-8" (80") min. / 9’-0” (108”) max.

Wall mounted: 5'-0" (60") min. / 6'-0" (72”) max.
mandate mounting
height, use of verbiage
5 11
and graphic style
different from Amtrak
CL
standards for accessible
parking signage.
5'-0" minimum for visibility

AMT 01

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

The Americans
with Disabilities
Act (ADA)
3.12
Graphic Overview
of the ADA

(continued)

Barriers
13) When the bottom
of the sign panel is
mounted between
27" and 80" above
the floor, a “cane
detection rod” is used
on post mounted signs
within circulation
paths for early
detection and safety.

13

1'-6"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.1 Platform Signage
“A” Sign Types
Platform Signs

Signs for the Amtrak Signage System have These signs are
been categorized into five groups. to conform with
“A” Sign Types represent Platform Signs. applicable codes and
“B” Sign Types represent Interior Signs. regulations, including
“C” Sign Types represent Exterior Signs. the Department
“D” Sign Types represent Regulatory Signs. of Transportation
“E” Sign Types represent Electronic Signs. Accessibility Standards
(DOTAS), and are to be
This chapter includes a comprehensive review of all coordinated with the
static Platform Signage (A Sign Types) within the appropriate disciplines.
Amtrak Signage System. Platforms are open air, non
climate-controlled exterior environments. For elec-
tronic signs found on platforms, refer to Chapter 8.0
Electronic Signage.
A sign overview, elevations of typical mounting
options, sign size and layout and a design intent
drawing is included for each Sign Type. Note that not
every mounting option is shown. “A” refers to signs
found on station platforms. Numeric codes (1, 2, 3,
etc.), following the location prefix “A” help organize
and codify all Sign Types within this category. Sign
Types are listed first by their name and are followed
by their identifying letter and number. For example:
Branded City/State Identifier, A1 Sign Type.
For additional important information regarding
Platform Signs, consult Chapters 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 9.0, 10.0,
and 11.0.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Branded City/State 4.2
Identifier
A1a Sign Type

Sign Overview

A1a Branded City/State

Identifiers are used to
establish an Amtrak
brand presence at station
San Diego, CA
platforms.
A1a Sign Type, Side A
A1a Branded City/State
Identifiers
A1a City/State Identifiers
display the Amtrak
logo in a branded Logo
Curve field and are used
San Diego, CA
at Category 3 and 4 A1a Sign Type, Side B (graphics optional, see page 4.5)
terminating stations or
stations with single side
platforms to display the
city name and two letter
state designation of a
station stop.

Baltimore, MD
New York Washington, DC
A2a Sign Type, Side A

El Paso, TX
Chicago/New Orleans Los Angeles
A2a Sign Type, Side A

El Paso, TX
Los Angeles Chicago/New Orleans
A2a Sign Type, Side B

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.3 Platform Signage
Branded City/State
Identifier
A1a Sign Type

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Options provide
1 2 3 guidelines for the
placement of branded

7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")

City/State Identifiers.

Verify clearance dimensions on site

Mounting options
1'-6"*

1) Post and panel

(low profile)*
2) Wall mounted
3) Railing mounted
4) Post and panel
(high profile)*
5) Suspended

A1a Sign Type Typical High Level Platform Comments

• May be single or
double-sided.
• Typically placed parallel
to track.
4 * 2 5
• May be placed
perpendicular to track
7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")
Verify clearance dimensions on site
at station end walls.
• Placed 85’+/- apart
at the midpoint of
Location Markers.
• Signs must be
within sight lines of
seated and standing
passengers on both
sides of rail car.
• Physical and
operational conditions
A1a Sign Type Typical Low Level Platform
vary with each site.
• Sign clearance
* A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” above
dimensions to be
top of platform in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within
used as a guideline
circulation paths and clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8” (80”)
only. Final mounting
above grade.
clearances are based
on site conditions
and are to be
verified with Amtrak
personnel before
sign installation.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Branded City/State 4.4
Identifier
A1a Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Branded City/State 8'-0"

Identifiers have a 1 1/2"

3 1/2"
1'-9 3/4" 5"
2 1/8"
customized layout.
Graphic Components
City Name, XX
1'-0"

5"
2 3/8"

Logo Curve
3’-0” x 1’-0” High Mounting A1a Sign Type, Side A Mounting
Gripper Gripper
City/State Name
Text Size: 5” Cap Height
Comments
• Mounting grippers for
City Name, XX
suspended and post A1a Sign Type, Side B (graphics optional, see page 4.5)
and panel signs only.
• For layouts and
consultation on
application of SAD/ 8'-0"
Mounting Mounting
DOTAS technical Gripper Gripper

requirements, contact
Amtrak Signage Brand City Name, XX
1'-0"

Management.
3"

Direction Direction
A2a Sign Type, Side A

City Name, XX
Los Angeles Chicago/New Orleans
A2a Sign Type, Side B
Divider square centered in space
between destination bar cities.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.5 Platform Signage
Branded City/State
Identifier
A1a Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Amtrak logo painted White* • Matthews Acrylic
2) Logo Curve painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
3) Background field painted Silver*
Compound (LVOC)
4) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* specifications provided.
5) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* (suspended similar) • AMT Blue
6) 9 1/2” diameter round base cover painted Silver* Satin VOC#
7) 1/4” thick aluminum panel for wall mounted sign, 1” deep aluminum SVOC1142SP
panel box for other mounting option; entire sign clear coated* • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
1 2 3 4 7
Comments
• A 10” diameter x 3”
City Name, XX high concrete shoe is
needed below post
A1a Sign Type, Side A, Wall Mounted base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
1 2 3 4 7
Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and

City Name, XX
heights on page 4.3.
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
5
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.

A1a Sign Type, Side A, Post and Panel

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Branded City/State & 4.6
Station Identifier
A1b Sign Type

Sign Overview

A1b Branded City/State

and Station Identifiers
are used to establish an
Amtrak brand presence
at station platforms and
at curbside.
Kingman, AZ
A1b Branded City/ A1b Sign Type, Side A (Facing Platform)
State and Station
Identifiers
A1b City/Station and
Station Identifiers display
the Amtrak logo in a
branded Logo Curve field
Kingman Station
and are used at Category A1b Sign Type, Side B (Facing Curbside)
3 and 4 terminating
stations or stations with
single side platforms
fronting curbside parking
lots. Side A, which faces
the platform, displays
the city name and two
letter state designation
of a station stop. Side
B, which faces curbside,
displays the city name
and the word “Station”.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.7 Platform Signage
Branded City/
State and Station
Identifier
A1b Sign Type

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Options provide
1 2 guidelines for the
placement of branded

7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")

City/State and Station

Verify clearance dimensions on site

Identifiers.
1'-6"*

Mounting options
1) Post and panel
(low profile)*
2) Railing mounted
3) Post and panel
(high profile)*
4) Suspended

A1b Sign Type Typical High Level Platform Comments

• Double-sided only, with
different messages
facing platform and
curbside.
• Placed parallel
to track.
• Placed 85’+/- apart
at the midpoint of
Location Markers.
3* 4 • Physical and
operational conditions
7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")

vary with each site.

Verify clearance dimensions on site

• Sign clearance
dimensions to be
used as a guideline
only. Final mounting
clearances are based
on site conditions
and to be verified
with Amtrak
personnel before
sign installation.

A1b Sign Type Typical Low Level Platform

* A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” above
top of platform in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within
circulation paths and clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8” (80”)
above grade.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Branded City/ 4.8
State and Station
Identifier
A1b Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Branded City/State and 8'-0"

1 1/2"

3 1/2"
1'-9 3/4" 5"
Station Identifiers a have 2 1/8"

customized layout.
Graphic Components
City Name, XX
1'-0"

5"
2 3/8"

Logo Curve
3’-0” x 1’-0” High Mounting A1b Sign Type, Side A Mounting
Gripper Gripper
City/State Name
(Side A)

Station Name
Text Size: 5” Cap Height
Station Name
(Side B)
Text Size: 5” Cap Height A1b Sign Type, Side B

Comments
• Mounting grippers for
suspended and post
and panel signs only.
• For layouts and
consultation on
application of SAD/
DOTAS technical
requirements, contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.9 Platform Signage
Branded City/
State and Station
Identifier
A1b Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Amtrak logo painted White* • Matthews Acrylic
2) Logo Curve painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
3) Background field painted Silver*
Compound (LVOC)
4) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* specifications provided.
5) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* (suspended similar)
•A
 MT Blue
6) 9 1/2” diameter round base cover painted Silver* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
7) 1” deep aluminum panel and entire sign clear coated* • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
•C
 lear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
1 2 3 4 7
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments

City Name, XX 5
• A 10” diameter x 3”
high concrete shoe is
needed below post
A1b Sign Type, Side A, Post and Panel base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and
heights on page 4.7.
6
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.

1 2 3 4 7

Station Name
A1b Sign Type, Side B

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Co-Branded City/ 4.10
State Identifier
A1c Sign Type

Sign Overview

A1c Co-Branded City/State

Identifiers are used at
station platforms where Suisun-Fairfield, CA
Amtrak is co-branded with
another transportation
carrier. A1c Sign Type

A1c Co-Branded City/

State Identifiers
A1c City/State Identifiers
display the Amtrak logo
to the left of the other
Suisun-Fairfield, CA
San Jose Sacramento
transportation carrier’s
logo, along with the city
names and two letter state A2c Sign Type
designation of a station
stop. A1c signs are typically
used at medium (Category
2) intermodal stations.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.11 Platform Signage
Co-Branded City/
State Identifier
A1c Sign Type

Mounting Options
1 2 3
The following Mounting
Options provide

7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")

Verify clearance dimensions on site
guidelines for the
placement of City/State
1'-6"*

Identifiers.
Mounting Options
1) Post and panel
(low profile)*
2) Wall mounted
3) Railing mounted
4) Post and panel
(high profile)*
A1c Sign Type Typical High Level Platform 5) Suspended
Comments
• May be single or
double-sided.
• Typically placed parallel
to track.
• May be placed
perpendicular to track
at station end walls.
4 * 2 5
• Placed 85’+/- apart
at the midpoint of
7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")
Verify clearance dimensions on site

Location Markers.
• Physical and
operational conditions
vary with each site.
• Sign clearance
dimensions to be
used as a guideline
only. Final mounting
clearances are based
on site conditions
and to be verified
with Amtrak
A1c Sign Type Typical Low Level Platform personnel before
sign installation.
* A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” above
top of platform in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within
circulation paths and clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8” (80”)
above grade.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Co-Branded City/ 4.12
State Identifier
A1c Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components
Mounting Mounting
9” Module Gripper Gripper
7'-6"
Unit Size: 1 1/8”
EQ EQ
Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap
Height 9" 1'-6"
Divider Line between 1 1/8"
text and logo areas: 1/8”
wide x 5 5/8”
City Name, XX
9"
10"

1 1/8"
Co-Branded Logo Area
Unit Size: 1’-2 5/8” wide
x 5 5/8” high A1c Sign Type
1"

Comments
Mounting Mounting
• For additional Gripper Gripper
7'-6"
information on the use
of modules, arrows, 9" 1'-6"
symbols and text refer
to Chapter 2.0. 1 1/8"
• Size and configuration 1 1/8"
of Amtrak and
other carrier within City Name, XX
9"
13"

3/8"
co-branded logo
3"

area varies. See page

2.19 on co-branding
1"

opportunities, and EQ" EQ"

contact Amtrak Signage A2c Sign Type CL
Brand Management. For divider
square
• Mounting grippers for
suspended and post
and panel signs only.
• For layouts and
consultation on
application of SAD/
DOTAS technical
requirements, contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.13 Platform Signage
Co-Branded City/
State Identifier
A1c and A2c
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Frutiger 55 Roman text painted White* • Matthews Acrylic
2) Accent bar painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
3) Divider Line painted AMT Blue* Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC)
4) Amtrak and Carrier logos painted in AMT Blue and carrier colors
specifications provided.
5) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* (suspended similar)
•A
 MT Blue
6) Background field painted Silver*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
7) 9 1/2” diameter round base cover painted Silver*
• Silver
8) 1/4” thick aluminum panel for wall mounted sign, 1” deep aluminum
Satin VOC# MP18073
panel box for other mounting options; entire sign clear coated*
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
Alternate Finishes for Co-Branded Carrier Logos:
Digital printing on white vinyl for multiple color logos •C
 lear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
1 2 6 3 4 8
Comments
• A 10” diameter x 3”
City Name, XX high concrete shoe is
needed below post
base covers in paved
A1c Sign Type, Wall Mounted installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
6 4 8 height per ADA and
heights on page 4.11.

City Name, XX • Paint all exposed edges

of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
2 sign.
1 3

A1c Sign Type, Post and Panel

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
City/State Identifier 4.14
and Direction Bar
A1 and A2
Sign Types

Sign Overview

A1 City/State Identifiers

San Diego, CA
are used at stations
where Amtrak has
a significant brand
presence, particularly
in large or heavily-
trafficked Category 1 and
2 stations with multiple A1 Sign Type
carriers.
A2 Direction Bars
indicate train directions.
A1 City/State
Identifiers
A1 City/State Identifiers
are to display the city
name and two letter
Washington, DC New York
state designation of a
station stop. A2 Sign Type

A2 Direction Bar
These optional signs are
used at medium and
large Category 1 and 2
through stations with
center platforms to
indicate the direction in
which a train is travelling
by in­cluding the names
of train origination and
final destination cities.
The purpose of the
Direction Bar is to
provide supportive
geographic orientation
and guidance for
passengers on platforms
when deciding which
train to board.
Named destinations
on Direction Bars must
be reviewed with
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.15 Platform Signage
City/State Identifier
and Direction Bar
A1 and A2
Sign Types

Mounting Options

1 2 3 The following Mounting

Options provide guide-

Verify clearance dimensions on site

7'-6" min. from top of rail (90")
lines for the placement of
City/State Identifiers and
1'-6"*

optional Direction Bars.

Mounting Options
1) Post and panel
(low profile)*
2) Wall mounted
3) Railing mounted
4) Post and panel
(high profile)*
A1 Sign Type Typical High Level Platform with optional A2 Sign Type
5) Suspended
Comments
• May be single or
double-sided.
• Typically placed parallel
to track.
• A1 only may be placed
perpendicular to track
at station end walls.
4 * 2 •  Placed 85’+/- apart
5
at the midpoint of
Verify clearance dimensions on site
7'-6" from top of rail (90")

Location Markers.
• Physical and operational
conditions vary with
each site.
• Sign clearance dimen-
sions to be used as a
guideline only. Final
mounting clearances
are based on site
conditions and to be
verified with Amtrak
personnel before sign
A1 Sign Type Typical Low Level Platform with optional A2 Sign Type
installation.

* A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” above
top of platform in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within
circulation paths and clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8” (80”)
above grade.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
City/State Identifier 4.16
and Direction Bar
A1 and A2
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components
9” Module Mounting Mounting
Gripper 54" Gripper
Unit Size: 1 1/8”
Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap 9"
Height 1-1/8" 1 1/8"

4.5” Module

City Name, XX
Unit Size: 9/16 ”
10"
9"

Support Text Size: 2” Cap

Height
Divider Square: 1”
(placed at center of space A1 Sign Type
1"

between directional text)

Comments
Mounting Mounting
• For additional Gripper Gripper
information on the use 54"
of modules, arrows, EQ" EQ"
9/16"
symbols and text refer
4 1/2"
5 1/2"

to Chapter 2.0. Long Direction

• Mounting grippers for
1"

suspended and post A2 Sign Type

and panel signs only. EQ" EQ"

• Consult with Amtrak CL

Signage Brand For divider
Management for square
application of DOTAS/
SAD technical
requirements.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.17 Platform Signage
City/State Identifier
and Direction Bar
A1 and A2
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Frutiger 55 Roman text painted White* • Matthews Acrylic
2) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* (suspended similar) Polyurethane Low
3) Background field painted AMT Blue* Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC)
4) Accent bar painted Silver*
specifications provided.
5) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* (for A2 Sign Type)
•A
 MT Blue
6) Arrow painted AMT Blue* (for A2 Sign Type)
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
7) Divider square painted AMT Blue* (for A2 Sign Type)
• Silver
8) Direction band painted White* (for A2 Sign Type)
Satin VOC# MP18073
9) 9 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver*
• White
10) 1/4” thick aluminum panel for wall mounted sign, 1” deep aluminum Satin VOC# SV202SP
panel box for other mounting options; entire sign clear coated*
•C
 lear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228

City Name, XX 3
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Direction Direction Comments
• A 10” diameter x 3”
high concrete shoe is
1 7 8 4 5 6
needed below post
A1 Sign Type with optional A2 Sign Type, Wall Mounted base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
10 height per ADA and
heights on page 4.15.

City Name, XX 2

3
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Direction Direction Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.
1 7 8 4 5 6

A1 Sign Type with optional A2 Sign Type, Post and Panel

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Boarding Location 4.18
Marker and Track
Identifier A3, A4, A5,
and A6 Sign Types

Sign Overview

Boarding Location Markers

and Track Identifiers are
signs used on platforms

4
to designate passenger
boarding locations
alphabetically supported
by track number
identification.
The application and
use of each Sign Type
shown here is determined
by existing platform A3 Sign Type A4 Sign Type
conditions.
A5 Sign Type
A3  Track Identifier
A4 Boarding Location
Marker
A5  Boarding Location
Marker and
Track Identifier * Arrow aligns left or right to correspond to
A6 Boarding Location track location.
Marker and
Track Identifier
with Arrow
Boarding Location Markers
are alpha-based and are
sequenced upwards from
west or south to east or
north.

A6 Sign Type*

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.19 Platform Signage
Boarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier A3, A4, A5,
and A6 Sign Types

Mounting Options

Existing The following Mounting

wall
CL Post* Options provide
7'-0" min.
guidelines for the
to center line
of track placement of Boarding
Location Markers and
Track Identifier signs.

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

CL
7'-0" min. Comments
to center line • May be single or
of track
double-sided; typically
double-sided.
• Sign face placed
perpendicular to track.
• Verify length of
standard car in train
consist to be utilized.
If unknown, place
signs 85’ +/- apart from
A3 & A4 Sign Types A5 & A6 Sign Types engineer’s stop.
Flag Mounted to Wall Flag Mounted to Post • Unattached sign edge(s)
(Can be single or to point towards
double flagged)
track(s).
• Sign clearance
dimensions to be
used as a guideline
7'-0" min.
only. Final mounting
to center line clearances are based
of track* on site conditions
6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")
6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

CL
8'-0" from top of platform (96")
8'-0" from top of platform (96")

and to be verified
with Amtrak
personnel before
sign installation.
* Where a post does
not exist, provide a
3 1/2” round aluminum
post with welded
mounting bracket. Post
shall be painted alumi-
num extending 3”
above the top of the
A7 Sign Type A7a Sign Type sign. When mounting
Suspended Only (Center platform Suspended Only (Center signs to an existing
canopy with 2 support columns) platform canopy with 1 support post, use a tensioned
column or side platform canopy)
metal strap system.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Boarding Location 4.20
Marker and Track
Identifier A3, A4, A5,
and A6 Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting Mounting

12” Module Gripper Gripper
12" 12"
Unit Size: 1 1/2”
Symbol Field: 9”
3” Module

#
Unit Size: 3/8” 1-1/2" 1-1/2"
Support Text Size: 2” Cap
12"

12"
13"

13"
Height
Divider Line: 1/8”
Comment
• For additional
information on the use
of modules, arrows,
A3 Sign Type A4 Sign Type
1"

1"
symbols and text refer
to Chapter 2.0.

Mounting Mounting
Gripper Gripper
12" 12"

1 1/2"
12"

12"
16"

19"

3/8"

Track ## Track ##
3"

3"
3"

A5 Sign Type 3/8"

1"

A6 Sign Type*
1"

* Arrow aligns left or right to

correspond to track location.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.21 Platform Signage
Boarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier A3, A4, A5,
and A6 Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Top field and Frutiger 55 Roman alpha or numeric designator • Matthews Acrylic
painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol field applied reflective vinyl. Color: White** Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC)
3) Track field painted White* specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue*
•A
 MT Blue
5) Divider line painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Arrow painted AMT Blue*
• Silver
7) 3 1/2” Diameter round post painted Silver* (post mounted signs only) Satin VOC# MP18073
8) 9 1/2” Diameter round base painted Silver* (post mounted signs only)
• White
9) Direction field painted White* Satin VOC# SV202SP
10) Accent bar painted Silver* • Clear coat
11) Gripper extension on mounting side only VOC Satin Clear
12) 1/4” thick aluminum sign panel and entire sign clear coated before vinyl #281228
application* **Vinyl
• Scotchlite Reflective
Alternate Finishes Vinyl White #680-10
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments
12 • A 10” diameter x 3”
high concrete shoe is
1 needed below post

X
2 base covers in paved
1 installations at stations
A3 and A4

with winter weather.

Adjust overall sign
A6

A5

height per ADA and

heights on page 4.19.
3

Track ##
• Paint all exposed edges
4
of sign Silver.
5

6
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
9 graphics on back of
Accent Bar
applies to 10 sign.
each sign type 11

A3, A4, A5, A5a, and A6 Sign Types

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Boarding Location 4.22
Marker and Track
Identifier A7 and
A7a Sign Types

Sign Overview

Boarding Location Markers

and Track Identifiers are
signs used on platforms
to designate passenger
boarding locations
alphabetically supported
by track number
identification.
The application and
use of each Sign Type
shown here is determined
by existing platform A7 Sign Type*
conditions.
A7  Boarding Location
Marker and
Track Identifiers
with Arrows
(suspended only)
A7a B
 oarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier with
Arrow (suspended
only)
Track 10
Boarding Location Markers
are alpha-based and are A7a Sign Type*
sequenced upwards from
west or south to east or
north.
Alternatively, A7a Track
Identifier information can
be replaced with message
text for one direction.

To Station
A7a Sign Type*, Alternate Message

*A7 Sign Type to be used singly when canopies on center platforms have two
support columns. A7a Sign Type to be used in tandem when canopies have one
central support column on center platforms, or singly for side platform canopies.
Arrow and track number align left or right to correspond to track location.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 8'-0" from top of plat

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0"

8'-0" from top of pla
6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0"
4.23 Platform Signage
Boarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier A7 and
A7a Sign Types
A3 & A4 Sign Types A5 & A6 Sign Types
Flag Mounted to Wall Flag Mounted to Post
(Can be single or Mounting Options
double flagged)

The following Mounting

Options provide
guidelines for the
7'-0" min.
placement of Boarding
to center line Location Markers and
of track* Track Identifier signs.

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

CL

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

Comments
• May be single or
double-sided; typically
double-sided.
• Placed perpendicular to
track.
• Verify length of
standard car in train
consist to be utilized.
If unknown, place
signs 85’ +/- apart from
A7 Sign Type A7a Sign Type engineer’s stop.
Suspended Only (Center platform Suspended Only (Center • Signs are mounted
canopy with 2 support columns) platform canopy with 1 support
perpendicular to
column or side platform canopy)
platform and face
track-side.
• Sign clearance
dimensions to be
used as a guideline
only. Final mounting
clearances are based
on site conditions
and to be verified
with Amtrak
personnel before
sign installation.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Boarding Location 4.24
Marker and Track
Identifier A7 and
A7a Sign Types
Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components
9” Module Mounting Mounting
Unit Size: 1 1/8” Gripper 45" Gripper
Symbol Field: 6 3/4” 9"
Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap
1 1/8"
Height 1 1/8"

4 1/2” Module
Unit Size: 9/16”
Location X
9"
14 1/2"

Arrow Field: 2 13/16”

9/16"
Text Size: 2 1/4” Cap EQ" EQ"
Height
4 1/2"

Divider Square: 1 1/8” Track ## Track ##

Comments
9/16"
• For additional infor-
1"

mation on the use of 22 1/2" 4 1/2"

modules, arrows, sym- A7 Sign Type*
bols and text refer to
Chapter 2.0. Mounting Mounting
Gripper Gripper
• Layout for A7a Sign

Location X
Type to include only
one direction with no
divider square.

Track ## Track ##
A7a Sign Type*

Mounting Mounting
Gripper Gripper

Location X
To Station Track ##
A7a Sign Type*,
Alternate Message EQ" EQ"

CL
For divider
square

* Arrow and track number align left or right to correspond to

track location.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.25 Platform Signage
Boarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier A7 and
A7a Sign Types
Design Intent
Drawing

*Paint
Finishes • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
1) Frutiger 55 Roman text applied reflective vinyl. Color: White**
Volatile Organic
2) Divider square painted AMT Blue* Compound (LVOC)
3) Direction band painted White* specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* •A
 MT Blue
5) Sign panel accent bar painted Silver* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Arrow painted AMT Blue* • Silver
7) 2” Diameter round support rod painted Silver* Satin VOC# MP18073
8) 3 1/4” Diameter round sign post painted Silver* • White
9) Background field and Frutiger 55 Roman numeric designator Satin VOC# SV202SP
painted AMT Blue* • Clear coat
10) Symbol field applied reflective vinyl. Color: White** VOC Satin Clear
#281228P
11) 1/4” thick aluminum sign panel and entire sign clear coated before
vinyl application* **Vinyl
• Scotchlite Reflective
Alternate Finishes Vinyl White #680-10
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl Comments
• A 10” diameter x 3”
high concrete shoe is
needed below post
base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and
7
11 heights on page 4.23.
8 • Paint all exposed edges

Location X 9
10
9
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
Track ## Track ## sign.

A7 and A7a Sign Types

1 2 3 4 5 6

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
4.26
Bumper Block
Track Identifier
A8 Sign Type

Sign Overview

Bumper Block Track

Identifiers designate
track numbers in stations
with terminating
tracks. Bumper Block
Track Identifiers are
larger than other Track
Identifier signs.

The application and

use of A8 (at Bumper
Block) shown here is
determined by existing
platform conditions.

A8 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.27 Platform Signage

Bumper Block
Track Identifier
A8 Sign Type

Mounting Option

The following Mounting

Options provide
guidelines for the
placement of Bumper
Block Track Identifier
signs.
Comments
• Single-sided only.

3'-0"
•P
 laced perpendicular to
track on bumper block.
• A gap of 3" minimum
from bottom of sign to
grade is recommended.
3” min. recommended Verify field conditions
A8 Sign Type
for mounting height.
Mounted at Bumper Block

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Track Identifier 4.28
A8 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout 24"

6"
3/4"
3/4"
Graphic Components
Track

6"
24” Module
Unit Size: 3”
Symbol Field: 18”
6” Module 3"
Unit Size: 3/4” 31"

24"
Text Size: 3” Cap Height

A8 Sign Type
1"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.29 Platform Signage
Track Identifier
A8 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

*Paint
Finishes • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
1) Track field and Frutiger 55 Roman numeric designator painted AMT Blue*
Volatile Organic
2) Frutiger 65 Bold text applied reflective vinyl. Color: White** Compound (LVOC)
3) Divider line painted Silver* specifications provided.
4) Symbol field applied reflective vinyl. Color: White** •A
 MT Blue
5) Accent bar painted Silver* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) 1/4” thick aluminum for sign panel and entire sign clear coated before • Silver
vinyl application* Satin VOC# MP18073
• White
Alternate Finishes Satin VOC# SV202SP
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl •C
 lear coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
**Vinyl
• S cotchlite Reflective
Vinyl White #680-10
6
For fabrication and
1 installation information
Track 2 refer to Chapter 11.0.
3
Comments
1

#
4 • For additional
1 information on the use
of modules, arrows,
symbols and text refer
to Chapter 2.0.
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
5
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue.

A8 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Directional 4.30
A9 and A10
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used for

directional information
on platforms. They
may vary in length to

Elevator
accommodate short and
long messages.
A9 Sign Type
These signs have stacked
graphic elements to A9 Sign Type
reduce panel width and
contain a maximum
of one (1) directional
message.
A10 Sign Type
These signs have side by
side graphic elements
and contain a maximum
of one (1) directional
message.
Elevator
A10 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.31 Platform Signage
Directional
A9 and A10
Sign Types

Mounting Options

Outline Existing The following Mounting

of A10 column Options provide
CL
guidelines for the
7'-0" min.
to center line placement of Directional
of track* Signs.
Elevator 7'-0" min. CL
Elevator

to center line Comments

of track*
6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

•M
 ay be single or
8'-0" from top of platform (96")

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

double-sided.
•P
 laced perpendicular to
passenger direction of
movement.
• Sign clearance
dimensions to be
used as a guideline
only. Final mounting
clearances are based
on site conditions
and to be verified
A9 and A10 Sign Types A10 Sign Type (A9 similar) with Amtrak
Column Mounted Suspended personnel before
sign installation.
CL CL

Elevator 7'-0" min. Elevator

to center line 7'-0" min.
of track* to center line
of track*
6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

6'-8" (80") min. / 9'-0" max. (108")

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

8'-0" from top of platform (96")

A9 Sign Type A10 Sign Type

Post and Panel Mounted* Post and Panel Mounted*

* A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” above top
of platform in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within circula-
tion paths and clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8” (80”) above
grade.
Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018
Platform Signage
Directional 4.32
A9 and A10
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting Mounting

Gripper Gripper
1'-6"
4 1/2” Module
Unit Size: 9/16” 4 1/2"
Arrow Field: 2 13/16”
9/16"
Symbol Field: 3 3/8”
Text Size: 2 1/4” Cap
4 1/2" 4 1/2"z

Height
9/16"
9 1/2"

Comments
• Mounting grippers for Message
suspended and post
and panel signs only. A9 Sign Type
1/2"

• For additional
information on the use Mounting Mounting
of modules, arrows, Gripper 1'-10 1/2" Gripper
symbols and text refer
to Chapter 2.0.
4-1/2"

Message
9/16"
5"

A10 Sign Type

1/2"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.33 Platform Signage
Directional
A9 and A10
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes * Paint
1) Arrow painted White* •M
 atthews Acrylic
2) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
3) Symbol field painted White*
Compound (LVOC)
4) Frutiger 55 Roman text painted White* specifications provided.
5) Background field painted AMT Blue*
•A
 MT Blue
6) Accent Bar painted Silver* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
7) Aluminum sign panel 1/4” thick and entire sign clear coated* • Silver
8) 2” Diameter round support rod painted Silver* (suspended signs only) Satin VOC# MP18073
9) 3 1/4” Diameter round sign post painted Silver* (suspended signs only) • White
10) 3 1/2” Diameter round posts painted Silver* (post and panel signs only) Satin VOC# SV202SP
11) 9 1/2” Diameter round base painted Silver* (post and panel signs only) •C
 lear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments
1 2 3 4
8 • A 10” diameter x 3”
7 high concrete shoe is
needed below post
base covers in paved
9 installations at stations
Message 5
6
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
A9 Sign Type, Suspended
height per ADA and
heights on page 4.31.
1 2 3 4
• Paint all exposed edges
7 of sign Silver.

Message 5 • Paint back of sign AMT

Blue if there are no
6
graphics on back of
10 sign.

11

A10 Sign Type, Post and Panel

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Station Information 4.34
Display Case
A11 Sign Type

Sign Overview

The freestanding A11

Sign Type is used to
display changeable
information on platforms Anniston, AL
at unstaffed stations
or stations with limited
activity. These branded
signs identify the station
and contain a display case
which permits Amtrak
employees to update
information quickly and
easily. 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com

The A11 Sign Type has

two distinct sides. Side
A contains the display
case with three (3) key-
locked, tempered glass
panels that swing up for A11 Sign Type, Side A (shown without display case contents)
access to a continuous
tack surface for posting
changeable information.
Side A also displays
permanent information Anniston, AL
including the Logo
Curve, the station name
and two letter state
designation and Amtrak
contact information.
Side B has no display
case but has the same
permanent information
1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com
as Side A plus a thank
you message.
Only certain kinds of
changeable information
shall be displayed in
Sign Type A11. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand A11 Sign Type, Side B
Management for
approved contents and
display formats.
Use of A11 Station
Information Display
Case requires review A11 Sign Type, Plan View
by Amtrak Signage
Brand Management.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.35 Platform Signage
ADA City/State
Identifier
A12 Sign Type

Sign Overview

These signs are used at

a central location on
HOPE, AR the platform to identify
the city and state name
SAN DIEGO, CA of a station stop to the
visually impaired.
Raised Character
messages must be
written in capital
letters, raised 1/32” and
be accompanied by a
Grade 2 Braille message
equivalent directly below
A12 Sign Type the Raised Characters.
The ADA counterpart to
the A1 City Identifiers,
A12 signs display the
city name and two letter
state designation of a
station stop; they do
not display the word
“Station”.
A12 signs, which are
located at platforms, are
often confused with
C20 signs, which display
the city name only with
the word “Station” and
are located at curbside
station entrances. At
Amtrak stops with only a
platform and no station
building, the A12 sign is
to be used, not the C20.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
ADA City/State 4.36
Identifier
A12 Sign Type

Mounting Options

The following Mounting 9" min.

Options provide guide-
lines for the placement
Tactile CL
of ADA City/State Characters
Identifiers.
A12 signs must be mount-
ed as shown for access
to Raised Characters and HOPE, AR
SAN DIEGO, CA

Grade 2 Braille messages

on the sign surface.

5'-0" (60") **
Comments
•C
 ity/State Identifiers
shall be located so that
a clear floor space of
18” minimum by 18”
minimum, centered on
Tactile Characters, is
A12 Sign Type Mounted to Wall by Door
provided beyond the
arc of any door swing
between the closed
position and the 45
degree open position, CL CL
see Chapter 3.0.
•O
 ne (1) sign minimum
per platform prefer-
ably located at station
HOPE, AR HOPE, AR
SAN DIEGO, CA SAN DIEGO, CA

entries. If multiple
entries per platform,
5'-0" (60") **

5'-0" (60") **

one (1) sign per entry

from platform.
• F or ADA mounting
guidelines for Raised
Character signs refer to
Chapter 3.0.
* S ign should be mounted
to freestanding post A12 Sign Type Mounted to Column A12 Sign Type Mounted to
only when wall mount- Freestanding Post*
ing is prohibited such as
on the walls of histori-
cal stations. Post should When installing multiple tactile/Braille signs in proximity to each other,
be located as close to mount all signs at same height within ADA mounting guidelines.
building as possible.
Sign should also be post ** Field exceptions to mounting height must be in compliance with
mounted at Amtrak DOTAS/SAD 703.4.
stops with no existing
structure on which to
attach signs.
2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©
 4.37 Platform Signage
ADA City/State
Identifier
A12 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

13 1/2" Graphic Components

4 1/2" 4 1/2” Module
Unit Size: 9/16”
9/16"
Text Size: 1 1/8” All Caps
Grade 2 Braille
9/16"
CITY NAME,
4 1/2"

1 1/8" cap ht. Comment

XX 1/32" raised copy Minimum spacing

between all Raised
(Grade 2 Braille) Grade 2 Braille Character pairs shall be
9"

1/8”. Refer to Chapter

3.0 for Raised Character
guidelines.

A12 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
ADA City/State 4.38
Identifier
A12 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

* Paint Finishes
•M
 atthews Acrylic 1) 1/4” thick exterior grade photo polymer panel with Raised
Polyurethane Low Characters and Braille, background field, edges, and back painted
Volatile Organic AMT Blue*
Compound (LVOC) 2) Frutiger 55 Roman 1/32” Raised Characters, painted White*
specifications provided.
3) Grade 2 Braille painted AMT Blue*
•A
 MT Blue
4) Entire sign clear coated*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
5) 2” diameter round post painted Silver* (post mounted signs only)
• Silver
6) 6 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver* (post mounted signs only)
Satin VOC# MP18073
7) 3/16” corner radius (post mounted signs only)
• White
8) Post mounting to anchor full height of sign back
Satin VOC# SV202SP
•C
 lear Coat
VOC Satin Clear Alternate Finishes
#281228 1/8” thick etched zinc panel with Raised Characters and Braille
For fabrication and
installation information 4 7
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments 1

• Alternate zinc panel CITY NAME, 2

to be used for post
mounted signs XX
and high exposure (Grade 2 Braille) 3
locations.
8
• A 6 1/2” diameter x
2” high concrete shoe
is needed below post
base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and
heights on page 4.36.

A12 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.39 Platform Signage
Station Information
Wall Mounted
Display Case
A15 Sign Type

Sign Overview

The wall mounted

Sign Type A15 is used
to display changeable
information on platforms
at unstaffed stations
or stations with limited
activity. These signs
are a display case
which permits Amtrak
employees to update
information quickly and
easily.
The A15 Sign Type is a
metal cabinet with an
interior tack surface
for posting changeable
information.
Only certain kinds of
changeable information
shall be displayed in
Sign Type A15. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for
approved contents and
display formats.

A15 Sign Type (shown without display case contents)

A15 Sign Type, Plan View

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Platform Signage
Station Information 4.40
Wall Mounted
Display Case
A15 Sign Type

Mounting Option &

Sign Size

The following Mounting

Option provides a
guideline for the
placement of Station
Information Display Case. 2'-5 1/4"
Comments
• S ign placement is
coordinated by Amtrak
management.
•O ne sign per unstaffed

3'-5 1/2"
station.
Graphic Components
• This Sign Type has no
permanent graphic
components.

3'-1"

A15 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 4.41 Platform Signage
Station Information
Wall Mounted
Display Case
A15 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

Materials
• Frame: Clear anodized
aluminum, square
corners.
• Door: Tempered glass
Comment
For additional
1 information on Sign
Type A15 contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
2 Management.

A15 Sign Type

Finishes
1) WSM Top Display Case model TN, custom sized for a 24” x 36”
display window, overall size 745 x 1052 x 60 mm (2’-5” x 3’-5 1/2” x
2 1/2”. Top hinged lockable, tamper-proof, weather-proof cabinet.
Allow 4 to 6 weeks for delivery.
2) Tack surface
3) Changeable information (approved contents and display format
from Amtrak Signage Brand Management)
4) Key Locks

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 5.1 Interior Signage
“B” Sign Types
Interior Signs

Signs for the Amtrak Signage System have been These signs are
categorized into five groups. to conform with
“A” Sign Types represent Platform Signs. applicable codes and
“B” Sign Types represent Interior Signs. regulations, including
“C” Sign Types represent Exterior Signs. the Department
“D” Sign Types represent Regulatory Signs. of Transportation
“E” Sign Types represent Electronic Signs. Accessibility Standards
(DOTAS), and are to be
This chapter includes a comprehensive review of all coordinated with the
static Interior Signage (B Sign Types) within the appropriate disciplines.
Amtrak Signage System. For electronic signs found
in station interiors, refer to Chapter 8.0 Electronic
Signage.
A sign overview, elevations of typical mounting
options, sign size and layout and a design intent
drawing is included for each Sign Type. Note that not
every mounting option is shown. “B” refers to signs
found in station interiors. Numeric codes (1, 2, 3, etc.),
following the location prefix “B” help organize and
codify all Sign Types within this category. Sign Types
are listed first by their name and are followed by their
identifying letter and number. For example: Overhead
Directional, B1 Sign Type.
For additional important information regarding
Interior Signs, consult Chapters 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 9.0, 10.0,
and 11.0.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Overhead Directional 5.2
B1, B2 and B3
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

as a primary source
for directional
Tickets & Baggage Check­in
information. They B1 Sign Type
may vary in length to
accommodate short and
long messages.
B1 Sign Type
These signs contain a
maximum of one (1) Trains
directional message.
B2 Sign Type Tickets & Baggage Check­in
These signs contain a
maximum of two (2) B2 Sign Type
directional messages.
B3 Sign Type
These signs contain a
maximum of three (3)
directional messages.
Comments
Trains
• Information for
Overhead Directionals
Waiting Area
should be based
on station specific Tickets & Baggage Check­in
wayfinding needs.
• When establishing B3 Sign Type
the order of multiple
messages, services
located straight ahead
should be listed first
followed by services
located to the right and
then to the left. The
use of diagonal arrows
should logically follow
the established pattern.
• For proper
nomenclature refer to
Chapter 1.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.3 Interior Signage
Overhead Directional
B1, B2 and B3
Sign Types

Mounting Options

A The following Mounting

Options provide
guidelines for the typical
Section A placement of Overhead
Directional signs.
B1, B2 and B3 Sign Types
can be placed in any
of the three mounting

6'­8" min. (80")

Sign Width Varies with Corridor Width conditions illustrated on
this page.
Comment
Ceiling heights and
mounting conditions
may vary.

B1 Sign Type Ceiling Mounted

6'­8" min. (80") / 9'­0" max. (108")

6'­8" min. (80") / 9'­0" max. (108")

9'­6 1/2" max. (114 1/2") 9'­0" max. (108")
8'­0" recommended (96")

8'­0" recommended (96")

B2 Sign Type Suspended B3 Sign Type Wall Mounted

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Overhead Directional 5.4
B1, B2 and B3
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting Mounting Gripper,

Gripper, suspended sign suspended sign
Sign Length 9’-0” 9'­0"*
9” Module
Unit Size: 1 1/8”
Arrow Field: 5 5/8” 1 1/8" Mounting Gripper,
Symbol Field: 6 3/4” ceiling mounted sign
Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap
Height
Message Line 1
9"
10"

Divider Line: 1/8” 1 1/8"

Comments B1 Sign Type

1"

• Mounting grippers for

suspended and ceiling
mounted signs only.
• For additional
information on the use
of the modules, arrows,
Message Line 1
9"

1 1/8"
symbols and text refer
19"

to Chapter 2.0.
Message Line 2
9"

•T  he sign layouts shown

here represent typical B2 Sign Type
1"

Overhead Directionals
based on a 9” module.
For smaller signs a
6” module may be
Message Line 1
9"

used and for larger 1 1/8"

Overhead Directionals
Message Line 2
9"

a 12” module may be

28"

used.
Message Line 3
9"

• Sign Length 6’-0”

6” Module
Unit size: 3/4” B3 Sign Type
1"

Arrow Field: 3 3/4”

Symbol Field: 4 1/2”
Text size: 3” Cap Height
Divider Line: 1/8” *If ceiling mounted, sign width varies with architectural conditions.

•S
 ign Length 12’-0”
12” Module
Unit size: 1 1/2”
Arrow Field: 7 1/2”
Symbol Field: 9”
Text size: 6” Cap Height
Divider Line: 1/8”

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.5 Interior Signage
Overhead Directional
B1, B2 and B3
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Arrow silkscreened White • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol silkscreened AMT Blue
Volatile Organic
3) Symbol field silkscreened White Compound (LVOC)
4) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened White specifications provided.
• AMT Blue
5) Divider lines silkscreened White
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
(A divider line is used only when there is a change in direction)
6) Accent bar painted Silver* • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
7) 2” diameter round support rod painted Silver*
• White
8) 3 1/4” diameter round sign post painted Silver* Satin VOC# SV202SP
9) Message band painted AMT Blue* • Clear Coat
10) 1 3/16” deep aluminum panel box for ceiling mounted signs, 1/4” thick VOC Satin Clear
aluminum for other mounting options and entire sign clear coated* #281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comment
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.

10 7
8
Message Line 1 9
B3

Message Line 2
B2

Message Line 3
B1

Accent Bar applies

to each sign type 1 2 3 4 5 6

B1, B2 and B3 Sign Types, Suspended

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Overhead Directional 5.6
B4, B5 and B6
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

as a primary source for
directional information.
Tickets & Baggage Check­in
They may vary in length
to accommodate short
and long messages and
incorporate the Preview B4 Sign Type
Bar which can display
a maximum of five (5)
Preview Messages.
B4 Sign Type
These signs contain the
maximum allowance of Trains
one (1) primary directional
message and five (5)
Preview Bar Messages. Tickets & Baggage Check­in
B5 Sign Type
These signs contain the
maximum allowance of
two (2) primary messages B5 Sign Type
and five (5) Preview Bar
Messages.
B6 Sign Type
These signs contain the
maximum allowance
of three (3) primary Trains
messages and five (5)
Preview Bar Messages. Waiting Area
Comments
• Information for these Tickets & Baggage Check­in
signs should be based
on station specific
wayfinding needs.
• When establishing B6 Sign Type
the order of multiple
messages, services located
straight ahead should be
listed first followed by
services located to the
right and then to the
left. The use of diagonal
arrows should logically
follow the established
pattern.
• For proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.
2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©
 5.7 Interior Signage
Overhead Directional
B4, B5 and B6
Sign Types

Mounting Options

A The following Mounting

Options provide
guidelines for the
placement of Overhead
Section A Directional signs that
incorporate the use of a
Preview Bar.
B4, B5 and B6 Sign Types
can be placed in any

6'­8" min. (80")

Sign Width Varies with Corridor Width of the three mounting
conditions illustrated on
this page.
Comment
Ceiling heights and
mounting conditions
may vary.

B4 Sign Type Ceiling Mounted

6'­8" min. (80") / 9'­0" max. (108")

6'­8" min. (80") / 9'­0" max. (108")

9'­6 1/2" max. (114 1/2") 9'­0" max. (108")

8'­0" recommended (96")

8'­0" recommended (96")

B5 Sign Type Suspended B6 Sign Type Wall Mounted

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Overhead Directional 5.8
B4, B5 and B6
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting Mounting Gripper,

Gripper, suspended sign suspended sign
Sign Length 9’-0” 9'­0"*
9” Module 9"
Unit Size: 1 1/8” Mounting Gripper,
Arrow Field: 5 5/8” 1 1/8" ceiling mounted sign
Symbol Field: 6 3/4”
Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap Height
Message Line 1
9"

Divider Line: 1/8” 1 1/8"

19"

Preview Bar Divider

9"

Line: 1/4”x 4 1/2”

Comments
B4 Sign Type
1"

• Mounting grippers for

suspended and ceiling
mounted signs only.
• F or additional
Message Line 1
9"

1 1/8"
information on the use
of the modules, arrows,
Message Line 2
9"
28"

symbols and text refer to

Chapter 2.0.
9"

•T  he sign layouts shown

here represent typical B5 Sign Type
1"

Over­head Directionals
that incorporate
the use of a Preview
Bar. Sizes are based on a
Message Line 1
9"

1 1/8"
9” module. For smaller
signs, a 6” module may
Message Line 2
9"
37"

be used. For larger

Overhead Directionals a
Message Line 3
9"

12” module may be used.

• Sign Length 6’-0”
9"

6” Module
Unit size: 3/4” B6 Sign Type
1"

Arrow Field: 3 3/4”

Symbol Field: 4 1/2”
Text size: 3” Cap Height *If ceiling mounted, sign width varies with architectural conditions.
Divider Line: 1/8”
Preview Bar Divider Line:
1/4”x 3”
• Sign Length 12’-0”
12” Module
Unit size: 1 1/2”
Arrow Field: 7 1/2”
Symbol Field: 9”
Text size: 6” Cap Height
Divider Line: 1/8”
Preview Bar Divider Line:
1/4”x 6” 2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©
 5.9 Interior Signage
Overhead Directional
B4, B5 and B6
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Arrow silkscreened White • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol painted AMT Blue*
Volatile Organic
3) Symbol field silkscreened White Compound (LVOC)
4) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened White specifications provided.
5) Divider lines silkscreened White • AMT Blue
(A divider line is used only when there is a change in direction) Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) 
2” diameter round support rod painted Silver* • Silver
7) 3 1/4” diameter round sign post painted Silver* Satin VOC# MP18073
8) Message band painted AMT Blue* • White
9) Preview bar painted White* Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
10) Accent bar painted Silver*
VOC Satin Clear
11) Arrow silkscreened AMT Blue #281228
12) Preview symbol field silkscreened AMT Blue For fabrication and
13) Preview symbol silkscreened White installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
14) Preview Bar Divider Line silkscreened AMT Blue
Comment
15) 1 3/16” deep aluminum panel box for ceiling mounted signs, 1/4” thick
• Paint all exposed edges
aluminum for other mounting options and entire sign clear coated*
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.

1 2 3 4 5

15 6
7
Message Line 1 8

Message Line 2 8
B6

Message Line 3
B5

8
B4

Accent Bar applies

to each sign type 13 12 13 12 13 12 11 14 13 12 11 10

B4, B5 and B6 Sign Types, Suspended

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Sign Band 5.10
B7 Sign Type

Sign Overview

These signs are inten­ded

to be integrated with
the architecture of sta­ Tickets
tion interiors and are
used to identify Public B7 Sign Type
and Customer Services
locations. Overhead
Sign Bands may vary in
length according to the
architectural conditions
and length of messages.
Sign Bands are limited
Customer Services
to a maximum of one (1)
B7 Sign Type
message.
Sign Bands indicate
services by displaying text
messages accompanied by
corresponding symbols.
Comments
Messages may include:
• Baggage Check-in
• Baggage Storage
• Customer Services
• Information
• Parcel Check
• Parking
• Street or (Street Name)
• Tickets
• Ticketed Passengers
Beyond this Point
• Amtrak Welcomes You
to “City Name”
• “Custom Message”
• F or the definition of
Custom Message and
proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.
•A
 mtrak® Express is
to be displayed using
its specified symbol
logotype found on page
2.13.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.11 Interior Signage
Sign Band
B7 Sign Type

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Tickets & Baggage Check­in Options illustrate only
two typical scenarios
for the mounting and
placement of Sign Bands.
Both illustrate wall
mounted conditions.
Comments
• Ceiling heights and
mounting conditions
may vary from station
to station allowing
additional Mounting
Options.
• Sign Type B7 is shown
B7 Sign Type at Ticket Counter here in combination
with Sign Type B25.

B7 Sign Type at Service Counter

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Sign Band 5.12
B7 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components
Sign Length: Varies verify in field
9” Module EQ" EQ"
Unit Size: 1 1/8”
9"
Symbol Field: 6 3/4”
Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap
Height 1 1/8"

Comments
• For additional
Message Band
1 1/8"
9"
10"

information on the use

of the modules, arrows,
symbols and text refer
1"

B7 Sign Type
to Chapter 2.0.
• The sign layout
illustrated here
represents a typical
Sign Band based on a 9”
module. For a smaller
Sign Band a 6” module
may be used and for a
larger Sign Band a 12”
module may be used.
• 6” Module
Unit size: 3/4”
Symbol Field: 4 1/2”
Text size: 3” Cap Height
• 12” Module
Unit size: 1 1/2”
Symbol Field: 9”
Text size: 6” Cap Height

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.13 Interior Signage
Sign Band
B7 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Message band painted AMT Blue* • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol field silkscreened White Volatile Organic
3) Symbol silkscreened AMT Blue Compound (LVOC)
specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened White
• AMT Blue
5) Accent bar painted Silver*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) 1/4” thick aluminum panel and entire sign clear coated*
• Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comment
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
1 2 3 4 5 • Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
6 graphics on back of
sign.
Message Line
B7 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Directional 5.14
B8, B9 and
B10 Sign Types

Sign Overview

Similar to B1, B2 and B3

Sign Types, these signs
are used as a primary
Baggage Check­in
source for directional
information. They are B8 Sign Type
smaller in size and
may vary in length to
accommodate short and
long messages.
B8 Sign Type
These signs contain a
maximum of one (1)
Tickets &
directional message.
B9 Sign Type
Baggage Check­in
These signs contain a
B9 Sign Type
maximum of two (2)
directional messages.
B10 Sign Type
These signs contain a
maximum of three (3)
directional messages.
Comments Trains
• Signs shown on this
page include examples
of messages used
Tickets &
on Wall Directionals.
Information for these Baggage Check­in
signs should be based
on station specific B10 Sign Type
wayfinding needs.
• When establishing
the order of multiple
messages, services
located straight ahead
should be listed first
followed by services
located to the right and
then to the left. The
use of diagonal arrows
should logically follow
the established pattern.
• For proper
nomenclature refer to
Chapter 1.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.15 Interior Signage
Wall Directional
B8, B9 and B10
Sign Types

Mounting Option

The following Mounting

6" Option provides typical
guidelines for the
placement of Wall
Directional signs.
B9, B10 and B11 Sign
Types may be placed
following the mounting
condition illustrated on
this page.
Comments
• Ceiling heights and
mounting conditions
may vary.
• Wall Directional signs
may also be mounted
10'­0" max. (120") on columns. If column
mounted at less than
6'­0" recommended (72")

6’-8” (80”) above

3'­4" min. (40")

finished floor, sign

edges shall not project
more than 12” from
each side of the column
edges.

B10 Sign Type Wall Mounted

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Directional 5.16
B8, B9 and
B10 Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 3'­ 0"

Sign Length: 3’-0” 4 1/2"

4 1/2” Module
Unit Size: 9/16” 9/16"
Arrow Field: 2 13/16”
Symbol Field: 3 3/8” 4 1/2"

9/16"
Message Line 1
5"

Text Size: 2 1/4” Cap

Height
Divider Line: 1/8” B8 Sign Type
1/2"

Comment
For additional
information on the use
4 1/2" 4 1/2"

Message Line 1
9/16"

of modules, arrows,
9 1/2"

symbols and text refer to

Chapter 2.0. Message Line 2
B9 Sign Type
1/2"
4 1/2" 4 1/2" 4 1/2"

Message Line 1
9/16"

Message Line 2
14"

Message Line 3
B10 Sign Type
1/2"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.17 Interior Signage
Wall Directional
B8, B9 and
B10 Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Arrow silkscreened White • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Volatile Organic
3) Symbol field silkscreened White Compound (LVOC)
specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened White
• AMT Blue
5) Message band painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Divider lines silkscreened White • Silver
(A divider line is used only when there is a change in direction) Satin VOC# MP18073
7) Accent bar painted Silver* • White
8) 1/4” thick aluminum panel for 3’-0” sign, 1/8” thick aluminum panel for 2’-0” Satin VOC# SV202SP
sign and entire sign clear coated* • Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comment
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
1 2 3 4 sign.
8

Message Line 1 5

Message Line 2
B10

5
B9

Message Line 3
B8

7
B8, B9 and B10 Sign Types
Accent Bar applies
to each sign type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Directional 5.18
B11, B12 and B13
Sign Types

Sign Overview

Similar to B4, B5 and B6

Sign Types, these signs
incorporate the use of
Baggage Check­in
the Preview Bar and are
also used as a source for
B11 Sign Type
directional information.
They are smaller in size and
may vary in length
to accommodate short and
long messages.
Tickets and
B11 Sign Type
These signs contain the Baggage Check­in
maximum allowance of
one (1) primary directional
message and five (5)
Preview Bar Messages. B12 Sign Type

B12 Sign Type

These signs contain the
maximum allowance of
two (2) primary messages Trains
and five (5) Preview Bar
Messages. Tickets and
B13 Sign Type
These signs contain the Baggage Check­in
maximum allowance
of three (3) primary
messages and five (5)
Preview Bar Messages. B13 Sign Type

Comments
• Information for Wall
Directionals should be
based on station specific
wayfinding needs.
• When establishing
the order of multiple
messages, services located
straight ahead should be
listed first followed by
services located to the
right and then to the
left. The use of diagonal
arrows should logically
follow the established
pattern.
• For proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.19 Interior Signage
Wall Directional
B11, B12 and B13
Sign Types

Mounting Option

6" The following Mounting

Option provides a
guideline for the typical
placement of Wall
Directionals that include
the use of a Preview Bar.
B11, B12 and B13 Sign
Types may be placed
following the mounting
condition illustrated
on this page.
Comments
• Ceiling heights and
mounting conditions
may vary.

10'­0" max. (120")

• Wall Directional signs
6'­0" recommended (72")

may also be mounted

on columns. If column
3'­4" min. (40")

mounted at less than

6’-8” (80”) above
finished floor, signs
shall not project more
than 12” from column
edges.

B13 Sign Type Wall Mounted

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Directional 5.20
B11, B12 and B13
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 3'­0"

Sign Length: 3’-0” 4 1/2"

4 1/2” Module
Unit Size: 9/16” 9/16"
Arrow Field: 2 13/16”
Symbol Field: 3 3/8”
3" 4 1/2"
Message Line 1
9/16"
Text Size: 2 1/4” Cap
Height
8"

Divider Line: 1/8”

Preview Bar Divider
Line: 1/4” x 1 1/2” B11 Sign Type
1/2"

Comment
For additional informa­
tion on the use of mod­
Message Line 1
3" 4 1/2" 4 1/2"

9/16"

ules, arrows, symbols and

text refer to Chapter 2.0.
12 1/2"

Message Line 2

B12 Sign Type

1/2"
3" 4 1/2" 4 1/2" 4 1/2"

Message Line 1
9/16"

Message Line 2
17"

Message Line 3

B13 Sign Type

1/2"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.21 Interior Signage
Wall Directional
B11, B12 and B13
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Arrow silkscreened White • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol silkscreened AMT Blue
Volatile Organic
3) Symbol field silkscreened White Compound (LVOC)
specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened White
• AMT Blue
5) Message band painted AMT Blue*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Divider lines silkscreened White
• Silver
(A divider line is used only when there is a change in direction)
Satin VOC# MP18073
7) Arrow silkscreened AMT Blue • White
8) Symbol field silkscreened AMT Blue Satin VOC# SV202SP
9) Symbol painted White* • Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
10) Preview Bar Divider Line silkscreened AMT Blue
#281228
11) Accent bar painted Silver*
For fabrication and
12) Preview bar painted White* installation information
13) 1/4” thick aluminum panel for 3’-0” sign, 1/8” thick aluminum panel for 2’-0” refer to Chapter 11.0.
sign and entire sign clear coated* Comment
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.

1 2 3 4

13

Message Line 1 5

Message Line 2
B13

5
6
B12

Message Line 3 5
B11

12 11 8 8 8 7 10 8 8 7
Accent Bar applies
to each sign type 9 9 9 9 9

B11, B12 and B13 Sign Types

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Service Identifier 5.22
B14, B15, B15a and
B16 Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

within stations to identify
Public and Customer
Services locations within
station interiors.
B14 Sign Type
Service Identifier
These signs display
symbols only.
B15 Sign Type B14 Sign Type Luggage
Service Identifier Carts
These signs display
symbols supported
with text messages. B15 Sign Type B15a Sign Type

B15a Sign Type

Directional
These signs display
symbols supported
with directional arrows.
They are used to direct
customers to available
accessible services.
B16 Sign Type
Service Identifier
These signs display
The nearest
symbols supported accessible
by additional text. entrance is
They are used to direct located on
customers to available 7th Avenue.
accessible services.
Comments
• Service Identifiers
may include Custom B16 Sign Type
Messages. For the
definition of Custom
Message and proper
nomenclature refer
to Chapter 1.0.
• For a complete list of
available Public and
Customer Services
Symbols refer to
Chapter 2.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.23 Interior Signage
Service Identifier
B14, B15, B15a and
B16 Sign Types

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

B14 and B15a Flag and V-Mounted Plan View
Options provide
Wall Wall guidelines for the
placement of Service
2 Identifiers.
1
Mounting Options
1) Flag mounted (B14 and
B15a only)
2) V-mounted (B14 and
B15a only)
3) Wall mounted
Comment
• Ceiling heights and
mounting conditions
may vary.
3
• B15 and B16 Sign Types
7'­1" min. (85") / 9'­0" max. (108")

Text
shall only be wall
mounted.
Telephone
8'­0" recommended (96")

TTY

• Refer to DOTAS/SAD
Table 703.5.5 on page
4'­1" min. (49") / 5'­10" max. (70")

3.4 for guidelines on

interior Visual Character
mounting and character
heights.

B14 and B15a Sign Types Only B14, B15, B15a and B16 Sign Types
Flag and V-Mounted Wall Mounted

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Service Identifier 5.24
B14, B15 and B16
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting

Gripper
9"
9” Module 1"
Unit Size: 1 1/8” 1 1/8"
Symbol Field: 6 3/4”
4-1/2” Module
1 1/8"
Unit Size: 9/16”
Arrow Field: 2 13/16"
(B15a only)
9"

Support Text Size: 1 1/8”

14"

Cap Height for two lines B14 Sign Type

Support Text Size: Cap
Height just over 3/4”
(9/16” x-height) for three 9/16" Line 1 Line 1
4 1/2"

Line 2
lines Line 2 Line 3
Comments
For additional B15 Sign Type Optional 3 lines
1/2"

information on the use

of modules, arrows,
symbols and text refer to Mounting Mounting
Gripper Gripper
Chapter 2.0, specifically 9" 9"
1" 1"
page 2.7. 1 1/8" 1 1/8"

1 1/8" 1 1/8"
9"
9"
14"

18 1/2"

Line 1
9/16" 9/16"
4 1/2"
4 1/2"

Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
B15a Sign Type
Line 5
4 1/2"
1/2"

Line 6
Line 7

B16 Sign Type

1/2"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.25 Interior Signage
Service Identifier
B14, B15 and B16
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Background field painted AMT Blue • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol field silkscreened White Volatile Organic
3) Symbol or arrow silkscreened AMT Blue Compound (LVOC)
specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 65 Bold text silkscreened AMT Blue
• AMT Blue
5) Background field painted White*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Accent bar painted Silver*
• Silver
7) Gripper extension on mounting side only for flag mounted conditions Satin VOC# MP18073
8) 1/8”thick aluminum panel for wall mounted sign, 1/4” thick aluminum panel • White
for flag mounted signs and entire sign clear coated* Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
7 8 7 8 Comment
1 1 • Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
2 2
• Paint back of sign AMT
3 3 Blue if there are no
B15
B14

graphics on back of
sign.

Line 1 4 Line 1
Line 2
4

Line 2 5
Line 3 5

6 Line 4
Accent Bar applies Line 5
to each sign type Line 6
B15

7
Line 7
6
B15a

3
B16 Sign Type

6
B14, B15 and B15a Sign Types

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Restroom Identifier 5.26
B17 and B18
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

within stations to
identify a restroom
facility or location.
B17 Sign Type
These wall mounted signs
identify restroom facilities
as well as other permanent WOMEN
interior facilities identified (Grade 2 Braille)

with a symbol and raised

tactile/Braille characters. B17 Sign Type B18 Sign Type
In conformance with ADA
these signs are required
to display messages
through the use of Raised
Characters and Grade
2 Braille equivalent
messages. They also display
corresponding symbols
within geometric shapes. MEN
(Grade 2 Braille)

B18 Sign Type

These door mounted signs B17 Sign Type B18 Sign Type
identify restroom facilities.
In conformance with
California Title 24,
Women’s restrooms are
identified by a circle raised
from the door, Men’s
restrooms by a raised
equilateral triangle and
RESTROOM
Family restrooms by a (Grade 2 Braille)

raised triangle on top of a

raised circle. B18 Sign Types B17 Sign Type B18 Sign Type
also display corresponding
symbols within these
geometric shapes.
“Restroom” is the preferred
term for Family restrooms.
However, “Family
Restroom” on two lines
can be used as an alternate.
For proper nomenclature FAMILY
refer to Chapter 1.0. RESTROOM
(Grade 2 Braille)

B17 Sign Type B18 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.27 Interior Signage
Restroom Identifier
B17 and B18
Sign Types

Mounting Option

9" min. The following Mounting

Option provides a
guideline for the
placement of Restroom
CL
Tactile
Identifiers.
Characters Restroom identifiers
require the installation
CL of both B17 Sign Type
(wall mounted) and
B18 Sign Type (door
mounted) signs.
RESTROOM B17 signs must be
mounted as shown
for access to Raised
Characters and Grade 2
6'­0" (72")

Braille massages on the

5'­0" (60")**

sign surface.
Comments
• B17 Sign Types shall
be located so that a
clear floor space of
18” minimum by 18”
minimum, centered on
Tactile Characters, is
provided beyond the
B17 Sign Type Wall Mounted arc of any door swing
between the closed
B18 Sign Type Door Mounted
position and the 45
degree open position,
see Chapter 3.0.
• For ADA mounting
guidelines for Tactile
Character signs refer to
** Field exceptions to mounting height must be in compliance with Chapter 3.0.
DOTAS/SAD 703.4.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Restroom Identifier 5.28
B17 and B18
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components
9" 9"
9” Module
Unit size: 1 1/8” 1 1/8" 1 1/8"
Symbol Field: 6 3/4”
3” Module (Nominal*)
Unit size: 3/8”
1 1/8" 1 1/8"
Text size: 3/4” All Caps
Grade 2 Braille
9"

9"
12 3/8"

12 3/8"
*Module height
increased to 3 3/8” to
comply with Section 3/8" 3/8"
703.3.2 of the current
ADA. Braille shall be WOMEN MEN
3 3/8"

3 3/8"
separated 3/8” minimum (Grade 2 Braille) (Grade 2 Braille)

from Raised Characters

and from bottom of sign. B17 Sign Type B17 Sign Type
Comments
• Minimum spacing 9"
between all Raised
1 1/8"
Character pairs shall
be 1/8”. Refer to
Chapter 3.0.0 for Raised
Character guidelines. 1 1/8"
• For additional
information on the use
9"
12 3/8"

of modules, arrows,
symbols and text refer
to Chapter 2.0 3/8"
• Accessible restrooms 3/4" cap ht.
FAMILY 1/32" Raised Characters
3 3/8"

shall be identified
with the international RESTROOM Grade 2 Braille
(Grade 2 Braille)
symbol of accessibility
when required. For B17 Sign Type
additional information
refer to Chapter 3.0.
• Symbols for other
"

permanent facilities,
12

12"
12"

such as stairs, can

be used with
corresponding
raised tactile/Braille
characters. Place B18 Sign Types
symbols in the circular
field shown for the B17
Women Sign. Refer to
Chapter 3.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.29 Interior Signage
Restroom Identifier
B17 and B18
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) 1/4” thick Exterior grade photo polymer panel with raised symbol field and • Matthews Acrylic
raised tactile and Braille letters, background field painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
2) Symbol field raised 1/32” painted White* with symbol silkscreened to match Compound (LVOC)
AMT Blue specifications provided.
3) Message field painted White* • AMT Blue
4) Frutiger 55 Roman raised 1/32” characters, painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP

5) Grade 2 Braille painted White* • Silver

Satin VOC# MP18073
6) Symbol field 1/4” acrylic painted to match AMT Blue* or White*
• White
7) Symbol silkscreened White or AMT Blue Satin VOC# SV202SP
8) Symbol silkscreened AMT Blue or White • Clear Coat
9) Symbol Field raised 1/4” acrylic painted White* or AMT Blue* VOC Satin Clear
#281228
10) Entire sign panel clear coated*
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
10 10 10
Comment
1 1 1
B18 Sign Types must
2
2
2 contrast with existing
doors. Dark doors may
require White* symbol
fields with AMT Blue*
symbols.
WOMEN 3 MEN 3 RESTROOM 3
(Grade 2 Braille) (Grade 2 Braille) (Grade 2 Braille) “Restroom” is the
4 4 4
preferred term for Family
5 5 5 restrooms. However,
B17 Sign Type B17 Sign Type B17 Sign Type
“Family Restroom” on
two lines can be used as
an alternate. For proper
nomenclature refer to
Chapter 1.0.
10 10 10
6
6 6
8
7 7

B18 Sign Type B18 Sign Type B18 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Permanent 5.30
Room Identifier
B19, B20 and B21
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

within stations to identify ROOM 222 EXIT
rooms designated as ROOM 222 EXIT
interior permanent and
must conform with ADA
requirements for Tactile
Characters. B19 Sign Type B19a Sign Type*
Raised Character
messages must be
written in capital
letters, raised 1/32” and
be accompanied by a STATION
Grade 2 Braille message
equivalent directly below
the Raised Characters.
MANAGER
BAGGAGE CHECK-IN
Messages may include:
• AUTHORIZED
PERSONNEL
• STATION MANAGER
• JANITOR’S CLOSET
• MECHANICAL ROOM B20 Sign Type
• ROOM “##”
• AREA OF REFUGE

AUTHORIZED
• EXIT
• EXIT STAIR #
• CUSTOM MESSAGE
For the definition of PERSONNEL
Custom Message and SUYHOTIXRF PRTDONNRL ONLU
proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

B21 Sign Type

* B19a used where required by DOTAS 216.4 Means of Egress at Exit Doors.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.31 Interior Signage
Permanent
Room Identifier
B19, B20 and B21
Sign Types

Mounting Option

9" min. The following Mounting

Option provides a
guideline for the
CL
Tactile
placement of Permanent
Characters Room Identifiers.
B19, B20 and B21 signs
must all be mounted
as shown for access to
AUTHORIZED
Raised Characters and
Grade 2 Braille messages
PERSONNEL
SUYHOTIXRF PRTDONNRL ONLU

(Grade 2 Braille)

on the sign surface.

Comments
5'­0" (60")**

• Permanent Room
Identifiers shall be wall
mounted.
• Permanent Room
Identifiers shall be
located so that a
clear floor space of
18” minimum by 18”
minimum, centered on
B21 Sign Type Wall Mounted
Tactile Characters, is
provided beyond the
arc of any door swing
between the closed
position and the 45
degree open position,
see Chapter 3.0.
• For ADA mounting
guidelines for Raised
Character signs refer to
Chapter 3.0.

When installing multiple tactile/Braille signs in proximity to each other,

mount all signs at same height within ADA mounting guidelines.
** Field exceptions to mounting height must be in compliance with
DOTAS/SAD 703.4.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Permanent 5.32
Room Identifier
B19, B20 and B21
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 9"

4 1/2” Module 3/8"

3/8"
Unit size: 9/16”
Text size: 1 1/8” All Caps RAISED 3/4" cap ht.

3 3/8"
1/32" Raised Characters
Grade 2 Braille RAISED
(Grade 2 Braille) Grade 2 Braille
3” Module (Nominal*)
3/8" B19 Sign Type
Unit size: 3/8”
Text size: 3/4” All Caps
Grade 2 Braille 4 1/2"
*Module height
increased to 3 3/8” to 3/8"
3/8"

comply with Section

703.3.2 of the current EXIT 3/4" cap ht., 1/32" Raised Characters
3 3/8"

(Grade 2 Braille) Grade 2 Braille

ADA. Braille shall be
separated 3/8” minimum
3/8" B19a Sign Type
from Tactile Characters
and from bottom of sign.
Comment 9"
4 1/2"
Minimum spacing
between all Raised 9/16"
Character pairs shall be
1/8”. Refer to Chapter
RAISED 1 1/8" cap ht.
4 1/2"

3.0 for Raised Character 1 1/8" 1/32" Raised Characters

guidelines. MESSAGE
9"

HERE
(Grade 2 Braille) Grade 2 Braille

B20 Sign Type

13 1/2"
4 1/2"

9/16"

RAISED 1 1/8" cap ht.

4 1/2"

9/16"
1/32" Raised Characters

MESSAGE
HERE
9"

(Grade 2 Braille) Grade 2 Braille

B21 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.33 Interior Signage
Permanent
Room Identifier
B19, B20 and B21
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) 1/4” thick Exterior grade photo polymer panel with raised tactile and Braille • Matthews Acrylic
letters, background field painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
2) Frutiger 55 Roman 1/32” raised characters, painted White* Compound (LVOC)
3) Grade 2 Braille painted AMT Blue* specifications provided.
4) Entire sign panel clear coated* • AMT Blue
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
• Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
4 4 • White
1 1 Satin VOC# SV202SP
RAISED EXIT 2
2 • Clear Coat
RAISED (Grade 2 Braille)
3
(Grade 2 Braille) 3 VOC Satin Clear
#281228
B19 Sign Type B19a Sign Type
For fabrication and
installation information
4 4 refer to Chapter 11.0.
1 1

RAISED 2
RAISED 2

MESSAGE MESSAGE
HERE HERE
(Grade 2 Braille) 3
(Grade 2 Braille) 3

B20 Sign Type B21 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Freestanding Custom 5.34
Message Inserts and
Sign Housings
B22a and B22b
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used to

display information or
changes in procedure Please
that may vary from wait for
station to station.
the next
Custom Message Inserts
have been designed to available
fit standard off-the-shelf agent.
Freestanding Sign
Housing Products. The
housings may also display
notices and posters
furnished by Amtrak.
B22 Sign Type inserts
contain sign messages
referred to as Custom
Messages. Custom B22a Sign Type Insert (11x17)
Messages should be kept
simple and must follow
proper Amtrak signage
usage and style.
For the definition of
Custom Message and
proper nomenclature
Acela
refer to Chapter 1.0.
Express
Ticketing

B22b Sign Type Insert (22x28)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.35 Interior Signage
Freestanding Custom
Message Inserts and
Sign Housings
B22a and B22b
Sign Types

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Options provide a
guideline for the use of
Freestanding Custom
Message Inserts (B22 Sign
Type) in recommended
Freestanding Sign
Housings.
For specifications and
ordering Freestanding
Sign Housing products
contact Amtrak
Signage Brand
Management.

B22a B22b

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Freestanding Custom 5.36
Message Inserts and
Sign Housings
B22a and B22b
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 11"

B22a Sign Type Insert 1" 1"

9"
(11x17)
3” Module 3"
Unit Size: 3/8” 3/8"
Text Size: Cap Height just
1"

over 1" (3/4” x-height of

lower case letters)
3/8" Line 1
3"

Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
17"

15"

Line 5
Line 6
Line 7
Line 8
Line 9
1"

B22a Sign Type Insert (11x17)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.37 Interior Signage
Freestanding Custom
Message Inserts and
Sign Housings
B22a and B22b
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

22"
Graphic Components
B22b Sign Type Insert
2" 18" 2" (22x28)
6” Module
6" Unit Size: 3/4”
Text Size: Cap height just
3/4"
over 2" (1 1/2” x-height
of lower case letters)
2"

3/4"
Line 1
6"

Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
28"

24"

Line 5
Line 6
Line 7
2"

B22b Sign Type Insert (22x28)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Freestanding Custom 5.38
Message Inserts and
Sign Housings
B22a and B22b
Sign Types
Design Intent
Drawing

*For paint and color Finishes

specifications please refer
1) 1/16” thick Sintra, background field painted AMT White*
to page 2.10.
2) Background field painted AMT Blue*
For specifications and
ordering Freestanding 3) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened color White
Sign Housing products
contact Amtrak
Alternate Finishes:
Signage Brand
Management. Digital printing on white Sintra to match Amtrak Blue* with Pantone 302C.

1
Line 1
Line 2
Line 3 2
Line 4
Line 5 3
Line 6
Line 7
Line 8
Line 9

B22a Sign Type Insert (11x17)

Line 1
Line 2
Line 3 2

Line 4 3

Line 5
Line 6
Line 7

B22b Sign Type Insert (22x28)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.39 Interior Signage
Wall Mounted
Custom Message
Inserts and Sign
Housings
B23a, B23b and B23c
Sign Types
Sign Overview

These signs are used to

Please display information or
wait for changes in procedure
the next
available that may vary from
agent. station to station.
Custom Message Inserts
have been designed
to fit standard off-the-
shelf Wall Mounted Sign
Housing products. The
B23a Sign Type Insert (11x17) housings may also display
notices and posters
furnished by Amtrak.
B23 Sign Type inserts
contain messages
Acela referred to as Custom

Express Thank You Messages. Custom

Messages should be kept
Ticketing for Riding simple and must follow
Amtrak proper Amtrak signage
usage and style.
For the definition of
Custom Message and
proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

B23b Sign Type Insert (22x28)

B23c Sign Type Insert (24x36)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Mounted 5.40
Custom Message
Inserts and Sign
Housings
B23a, B23b and B23c
Sign Types
Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Options provide a
guideline for the use of
Wall Mounted Custom
Message Inserts (B23
Sign Types) with their
corresponding Wall
Mounted Sign Housings.
For specifications
and ordering Wall

5'­0" recommended (60")

Mounted Sign Housing
products contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.

3'­4" min. (40")

B23a B23b B23c

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.41 Interior Signage
Wall Mounted
Custom Message
Inserts and Sign
Housings
B23a, B23b and B23c
Sign Types
Sign Size and Layout

11" Graphic Components

1" 1"
9" B23a Sign Type Insert
(11x17)
3"
3” Module
3/8"
Unit Size: 3/8”
Text Size: Cap height just
1"

over 2" (1 1/2” x-height

3/8" Line 1 of lower case letters)
3"

Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
17"

15"

Line 5
Line 6
Line 7
Line 8
Line 9
1"

B23a Sign Type Insert (11x17)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Mounted 5.42
Custom Message
Inserts and Sign
Housings
B23a, B23b and B23c
Sign Types
Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 22"

B23b Sign Type Insert

(22x28) 2" 18" 2"
6” Module
6"
Unit Size: 3/4”
Text Size: Cap height just 3/4"
over 2" (1 1/2” x-height
of lower case letters)
2"

3/4"
Line 1
6"

Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
28"

24"

Line 5
Line 6
Line 7
2"

B23b Sign Type Insert (22x28)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.43 Interior Signage
Wall Mounted
Custom Message
Inserts and Sign
Housings
B23a, B23b and B23c
Sign Types
Sign Size and Layout

24" Graphic Components

B23c Sign Type Insert
3" 18" 3" (24x36)
6"
6” Module
Unit Size: 3/4”
3/4" Text Size: Cap height just
over 2" (1 1/2” x-height
of lower case letters)
3"

3/4"
Line 1
6"

Line 2
Line 3
Line 4
Line 5
36"

30"

Line 6
Line 7
Line 8
Line 9
3"

B23c Sign Type Insert (24x36)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Wall Mounted 5.44
Custom Message
Inserts and Sign
Housings
B23a, B23b and B23c
Sign Types
Design Intent
Drawing
*For paint and color Finishes
specifications please refer
1) 1/16” thick Sintra, background field painted AMT White*
to page 2.10.
3) Background field painted AMT Blue*
For specifications
and ordering Wall 4) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened color White
Mounted Sign Housing
products contact
Alternate Finishes:
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management. Digital printing on white Sintra to match Amtrak Blue* with Pantone 302C.

1
Line 1
Line 2
Line 3 2
Line 4
Line 5 3
Line 6
Line 7
Line 8
Line 9

B23a Sign Type Insert (11x17)

1 1

Line 1 Line 1
Line 2 Line 2
Line 3 2
Line 3 2

Line 4 3
Line 4 3

Line 5 Line 5
Line 6 Line 6
Line 7 Line 7
Line 8
B23b Sign Type Insert (22x28) Line 9

B23c Sign Type Insert (24x36)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.45 Interior Signage
Station Hours
Lettering
B24 Sign Type

Sign Overview

These signs display

5/8"
station hours of
1 1/8"
operation and provide
Amtrak Welcomes You to 3/4"
1/2"
a friendly greeting to
Amtrak guests at station
Station Name 3/4"
entrances.
1"

Station Hours: 3/4"

1/2"
Sample layouts included
on this page indicate
00:00am ­ 00:00pm Daily (or Day ­ Day) 3/4"
1/2"
the size and layout (line
spacing) recommended
00:00am ­ 00:00pm Alternate Day ­ Day 3/4"
for applied vinyl lettering.
B24 Sign Type, Branded Use of the branded
CL version is preferred to
convey the Amtrak brand
presence at station
entrances.
Amtrak Welcomes You to 3/4"
1/2"
Comments
Station Name 3/4" • Station hours of
operation may vary
1"
from
Station Hours: 3/4"
1/2" station to station.
00:00am ­ 00:00pm Daily (or Day ­ Day) 3/4"
1/2" • Station hours at a given
00:00am ­ 00:00pm Alternate Day ­ Day 3/4" station may vary with
days of the week.
B24 Sign Type • “Station Name” is the
City name (no state
CL
abbreviation) plus the
word “Station”, e.g.,
Dearborn Station.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Station Hours 5.46
Lettering
B24 Sign Type

Mounting Option

The following Mounting

Option provides
guidelines for the place­
ment of vinyl lettering
at station entrances.
Where glass doors do Amtrak Welcomes You to
Atlanta Station
not exist, station hours Station Hours:
7:00am ­ 9:00pm Daily
should be placed on an
adjacent window in close
proximity.
Comments
5'­0" (60”)

• 3/4” Frutiger 55 Roman

text in 3MTM ScotchcalTM
ElectroCutTM Opaque
Vinyl, Matte White
7725-20.
• Cut vinyl applied to
the exterior side of the
glass.
B24 Branded Sign Type
• Baseline for the first Single Glass Entrance Door
line of copy should start
5’-0” (60”) above
finished floor.
• Width of text should
not exceed 2’-8” (32”).
• Example copy shown Amtrak Welcomes You to Amtrak Welcomes You to
here illustrates how Lancaster Station
Station Hours:
Lancaster Station
Station Hours:
hours vary from station 5:00am ­ 11:59pm Mon ­ Fri
6:30am ­ 10:30pm Sat ­ Sun
5:00am ­ 11:59pm Mon ­ Fri
6:30am ­ 10:30pm Sat ­ Sun
to station, and with
days of the week at a
given station.
5'­0" (60”)

For additional informa­

tion on application of
vinyl lettering refer to
page 11.2.

B24 Branded Sign Type

Double Glass Entrance Doors

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.47 Interior Signage
Horizontal and
Vertical Travelmarks,
Sign Types B25 and
B26

Sign Overview
Varies
The Amtrak Travelmark
consists of individually
cut, satin finished
aluminum elements
of the Amtrak logo
mounted on the back
walls of ticket counters.
Depending on the
back wall size and
configuration, the
Travelmark may be a
horizontal (B25) or (B26)
vertical configuration of
B25 Travelmark Sign Type, Horizontal Orientation, the Amtrak logo.
at Multiple Window Ticket Counter
When the Travelmark is
used, it is recommended
Varies to paint the back wall to
match AMT Blue* before
Travelmark installation.
Comment
* For paint and color
specifications please
refer to page 2.10.
Also see page 11.1 for
painting on plaster,
gypsum board and cork.
Use of the Travelmark
requires review by
Amtrak Signage Brand
B26 Travelmark Sign Type, Vertical Orientation, Management.
at Single Window Ticket Counter

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Individually-cut 5.48
Letters
B27 Sign Type

Sign Overview

Individually-cut Letters
are used mainly in ABCDEFGHIJKLMN
Historic Stations to
provide directional O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
information or identify
available public or a b c d e f g h i j k l m n
customer services.
Frutiger 65 Bold letters
o p q r s t u v w x y z
are to be used in all
conditions. The material
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
is typically satin finished Frutiger 65 Bold
aluminum either surface-
or pin-mounted. Satin
finished brass may be
used in certain Historical
Stations.
Careful assessment of
To Street
mounting conditions is B27 Sign Type
required to protect the
existing architectural
value of station interiors.
Use of individually-cut
letters requires review
by Amtrak Signage
Brand Management.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.49 Interior Signage
Individually-cut
Letters
B27 Sign Types

Mounting Options

To Trains Varies
The following
Mounting Options
provide guidelines for
typical placement of
individually-cut letters.
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comment
• Refer to DOTAS/SAD
Table 703.5.5 on page
3.4 to determine
minimum interior
individually-cut letter
heights based on
mounting height and
viewing distance.
Use of individually-cut
letters requires review
B27 Sign Type (Station Interior) by Amtrak Signage
Brand Management.

Emeryville Varies

B27 Sign Type (Station Interior)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Interior Cut Vinyl 5.50
Applied Letters
B28 Sign Type

Sign Overview

Cut vinyl letters are used

to provide information of ABCDEFGHIJKLMN
a secondary nature, such
as operating hours. O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Cut vinyl letters are self-
adhesive and are applied
a b c d e f g h i j k l m n
directly to interior
surfaces, most typically
o p q r s t u v w x y z
to glass but to opaque
surfaces as well.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
The Frutiger 55 Roman Frutiger 55 Roman
typeface is to be used
for all cut vinyl letters.
Color and size are to be Amtrak Customer Service Hours:
determined by viewing
conditions. Cut vinyl
7:30am - 5:30pm Daily
letters are not to be used
for exterior applications, B28 Sign Type
except station hours (B24
Sign Type).
Comment
For proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.51 Interior Signage
Interior Cut Vinyl
Applied Letters
B28 Sign Type

Mounting Option

The following Mounting

Option provides a
guideline for the typical
placement of cut vinyl
letters.
Comments
• Mounting heights
vary with letter size,
configuration of
installation site and
viewing distance. Refer
to DOTAS/SAD Table
703.5.5 on page 3.4.
• Cut vinyl letters should
be mounted close to
3‘­4” min. (40”) / 5’­6” max. (66”)

edges of mounting
surfaces to visually
“anchor” the letters to
the surface.
• White letters should
be used on dark
backgrounds and
letters to match AMT
Blue should be used on
light backgrounds. The
lightness or darkness
of spaces beyond glass
surfaces should be
considered for glass
mounted letters.
For additional
information on
application of vinyl
lettering refer to page
11.2.

B28 Sign Type Applied to Glass

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Interior Cut Vinyl 5.52
Applied Letters
B28 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing and Sign
Size and Layout varies
3/4"
Graphic Components
6” Module
Unit Size: 3/4”
Text Size: 1 1/2” Cap 6"
3/4" Line 1
Height
Recommended for closer
Line 2
viewing distances and
lower mounting heights. B28 Sign Type varies
3/4"
Refer to DOTAS/SAD
Table 703.5.5 on page 3.4

Line 1
to determine minimum
interior individually-cut 3/4"
Finishes
6"

letter heights based on

mounting height and
viewing distance.
Line1 2
Line
1)  Frutiger 55 Roman text in 3MTM ScotchcalTM 1ElectroCutTM Opaque
Vinyl, White 7725-10
9” Module
Unit Size: 1 1/8”
Alternate Finishes
Line 2
B28 Sign Type
• Avery Ultimate Cast Opaque Vinyl, Majestic Blue UC 900-625-O*
Text Size: 2 1/4” Cap B28 Sign Type
Height
12” Module
Unit Size: 1 1/2”
Text Size: 3” Cap Height
Comments Line 1 1

Line 2
• Maintain module text
sizes indicated for
single or multiple lined
B28 Sign Type
messages.
• For additional
information on the use
of modules and text
refer to Chapter 2.0.
*Alternate finish for
letters on light
backgrounds only.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.53 Interior Signage
Changeable Message
Insert Sign
B29 Sign Type

Sign Overview

This sign is used for

Hours of messages that may

change, such as operation

Operation hours, which are printed

on an 8 1/2” x 11” paper
insert that slides into
the sign frame. The sign
frame has a header with

Ticket Office permanent graphics

and a clear window for
viewing the changeable
paper insert.
Comment
For proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

5:30am to
9:30pm Daily

B29 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Changeable Message 5.54
Insert Sign
B29 Sign Type

Mounting Option

The following Mounting

Option provides a
guideline for typical
placement of Changeable
Message Insert Signs.
5'­10" (70")

B29 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 11"
5.55 Interior Signage
Changeable Message
Insert Sign
B29 Sign Type
3/8"
3/4"
3/8"
3/4"
Design Intent
1/2" Drawing and Sign
Size and Layout

Graphic Components
Sign Frame Text size: 3/4”
Cap Height
15"

This sign has a custom

layout for header and
insert graphics.
For ordering paper
inserts contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.
*Paint
• Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
B29 Sign Type
Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC)
Finishes specifications provided.
1) Non-glare clear acrylic sign frame • AMT Blue
2) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted White* on second surface Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
3) Header field painted AMT Blue* on second surface • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
4) Insert field painted White* on second surface
• White
5) Unpainted clear insert window Satin VOC# SV202SP
6) Accent bar painted Silver* on second surface • Clear Coat
1 VOC Satin Clear
#281228
Line 1 2
For fabrication and
Line 2 3
installation information
4 refer to Chapter 11.0.
Note: Paper insert text
to be minimum 72
5 points with single line
spacing. Arial typeface
recommended.

B29 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
B30 Sign Type 5.56

This page is
intentionally
left blank.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.57 Interior Signage
Amtrak Police
Identification Signs
B31 and B32
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used to

identify Amtrak Police
presence in a station.

Amtrak Police The site of Amtrak Police

at each station varies.
Whether it is a podium,
desk, or office, use the
B31 Sign Type sign type best suited for
the site. One or both
of these two signs are
required.
B31 Sign Type
These wall mounted or
suspended signs identify
Amtrak police presence
in a station.
B32 Sign Type
These podium or window
mounted signs identify
Amtrak police presence
in a station.

B32 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Amtrak Police 5.58
Identification Signs
B31 and B32
Sign Types

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Options provide
guidelines for the
placement Amtrak Police
of the Amtrak Police
Identification Signs.

Mounting Options:
1) Transom mounted
2) Desk mounted
Comment
Mounting conditions
may vary.

B31 Sign Type, Transom Mounted

B32 Sign Type, Desk Mounted

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 5.59 Interior Signage
Amtrak Police
Identification Signs
B31 and B32
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

5'­3"
9"
Graphic Components
1 1/8"
Sign Length 5’-3”
9” Module
1 1/8"
Amtrak Police Unit Size: 1 1/8”
10"

9"

Symbol Field: 6 3/4”

Text Size: 4 1/2” Cap
Height
1"

B31 Sign Type Divider Line: 1/8”

Comments
• For additional
information on the use
2'­0"
of the modules, arrows,
symbols and text refer
to Chapter 2.0.
• The B31 sign layout
shown here represents
a typical Amtrak Police
2'­0"

Identification Sign
based on a 9” module.
Size of sign can vary,
depending on site
specific conditions and
ADA interior character
B32 Sign Type
1"

size/mounting height
requirements. Refer to
Chapter 3.0.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Interior Signage
Amtrak Police 5.60
Identification Signs
B31 and B32
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

*Paint Finishes
• Matthews Acrylic 1) Background painted AMT Blue*
Polyurethane Low
2) Police shield silkscreened White
Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC) 3) Frutiger 55 Roman text silkscreened White
specifications provided. 4) Accent bar painted Silver*
• AMT Blue 5) 1/8” thick aluminum panel and entire sign clear coated*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
• Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
• White 1 2 3
Satin VOC# SV202SP 5

• Clear Coat

Amtrak Police
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0. B31 Sign Type
Comment 4

• Paint all exposed edges

of sign Silver. 1 2
• Paint back of sign AMT 5
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.

B32 Sign Type

4

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.1 Exterior Signage
“C” Sign Types
Exterior Signs

Signs for the Amtrak Graphics Signage System These signs are
have been categorized into five groups. to conform with
“A” Sign Types represent Platform Signs. applicable codes and
“B” Sign Types represent Interior Signs. regulations, including
“C” Sign Types represent Exterior Signs. the Department
“D” Sign Types represent Regulatory Signs. of Transportation
“E” Sign Types represent Electronic Signs. Accessibility Standards
(DOTAS), and are
This chapter includes a comprehensive review of to be coordinated
all static Exterior Signage (C Sign Types) within with the appropriate
the Amtrak Graphics Signage System. disciplines.
A sign overview, elevations of typical mounting
options, sign size and layout and a design intent
drawing is included for each Sign Type. Note that
not every mounting option is shown. “C” refers to
signs found on the non-platform curb side or street
side of station exteriors. Numeric codes (1, 2, 3, etc.),
following the location prefix “C” help organize and
codify all Sign Types within this category. Sign Types
are listed first by their name and are followed by their
identifying letter and number. For example: Curb
Identifier, C1 Sign Type.
For additional important information regarding
Exterior Signs, consult Chapters 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, 9.0,
10.0, and 11.0. Note that the DOTAS/SAD Scoping
section 216 provides important information on the
applicability of the section 703 Technical Requirements.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Curb Identifier 6.2
C1 and C2 Sign Types

Sign Overview
These signs display
symbols at station
exteriors to identify
services and provide
curbside information for
pedestrian and vehicular
traffic. Signs vary in
height to accommodate
various support messages.
C1 Sign Type
Support text may include: Visitor Drop-off &
• Drop-off & Pick-up Parking Pick-up
(used with ISA symbol)
• Employee Parking Driver Must
(used with Parking C1 Sign Type
Remain
symbol)
in Car
• No Standing
• Visitor Parking (used C2 Sign Type
with Parking symbol)
C2 Sign Type Curb
Identifier with
Additional Field
Support text for top
field (*) and additional
field (+) include: Comment
* Drop-off Local jurisdictions may mandate mounting height, use of verbiage
+ Driver Must Remain in and graphic style different from Amtrak standards for accessible
Car parking identification signage.
* Pick-up
+ Driver Must Remain in
Car
* Drop-off & Pick-up
+ Driver Must Remain in
Car
* Standing
+ “#” Minute Limit
* Taxis
+ Queue Here
For proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.3 Exterior Signage
Curb Identifier
C1 and C2 Sign Types

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Station
Options provide
CL
guidelines for the
Post
placement of Curb
1'-0" min. (12") / 4'-0" max. (48")
Identifiers.
(verify in field)
Curb Edge
Mounting Options
C1 and C2 Sign Types, Sign Face Parallel to Curb
1) Sign face placed
parallel to curb
2) Unattached sign edge
1'-0" min. (12") / 4'-0" max. (48") placed perpendicular
Mounting* (verify in field) to curb. Sign face to
point towards curb.
C1 and C2 Sign Types may
Post** be placed in either of the
two mounting options

7'-10" (94") min. / 10'-0" max. (120")

illustrated on this page.
7'-10" min. (94") / 10'-0" max. (120")

9'-0" recommended (108")

* When mounting signs
9'-0" recommended (108")

to an existing post,
use a tensioned metal
strap system.
** Where a post does
not exist, provide
a 3 1/2” round
aluminum post with
welded mounting
bracket. Post shall be
1 2 painted aluminum
Curb Edge
extending 3” above
Curb Edge Station Curb the top of the sign.
C1 Sign Type, Parallel to Curb C2 Sign Type, Perpendicular to Curb

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Curb Identifier 6.4
C1 and C2 Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 12"

Mounting 1 1/2"
12” Module
Gripper
Unit Size: 1 1/2” 1"
Symbol Field: 9”
6” Module
Unit Size: 3/4”
1 1/2"
Support Text Size: 1 1/2”
Cap Height for two lines
12"

Optional Support Text

Size: Cap height just over
19"

1” (3/4” x-height) for

3/4"
three lines
Divider Line: 1/8”
Comment Line 1
Line 2
6"

For additional
information on the use
of the modules, arrows,
1"

symbols and text refer to C1 Sign Type

Chapter 2.0.

12"

Mounting 1 1/2"
Gripper
1"

1 1/2"
12"

3/4"
25"

Line 1
Line 2
6"

Line 1 Line 1
3/4" Line 2
6"

Line 2 Line 3
1"

Optional 3 lines
C2 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.5 Exterior Signage
Curb Identifier
C1 and C2 Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Background field painted AMT Blue* • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol field applied reflective White vinyl** Volatile Organic
3) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Compound (LVOC)
4) Divider line painted Silver* specifications provided.

5) Frutiger 65 Bold text applied reflective White vinyl** • AMT Blue

Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Additional field painted White*
• Silver
7) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# MP18073
8) Accent Bar painted Silver* • White
9) 1” gripper extension on mounting side only Satin VOC# SV202SP
10) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* • Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
11) 9 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver* #281228
12) 1/4” thick aluminum panel for post mounted signs and entire sign clear coat-
**Vinyl
ed before vinyl application*
• 3M Scotchlite Reflective
Vinyl White #680-10
Alternate Finishes
For fabrication and
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments
12
• A 10” diameter x 3”
1 high concrete shoe is
2 needed below post
base covers in paved
3 installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
C1

4 height per ADA and

heights on page 6.3.
C2

Line 1 1 • Paint all exposed edges

Line 2 5 of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Line 1 6
7
Line 1
Line 2
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
Line 2 8 Line 3 sign.
Optional 3 lines

10

11

C1 and C2 Sign Types

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018
Exterior Signage
Vehicular Directional 6.6
C3, C4, C5, C6, and
C6a Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

at station exterior sites
as a primary source for
Parking
vehicular directional
information. Vehicular
Directionals are limited
C3 Sign Type
to a maximum of three
messages as shown in C5
Sign Type.
C3 Sign Type
One (1) directional
message
Drop-off &
C4 Sign Type
Two (2) directional
Pick-up C6 Sign Type
messages
C5 Sign Type Parking
Three (3) directional
messages
C6 and C6a Sign Types C4 Sign Type
(Flag mounted only)
One (1) symbol paired
with directional arrow and
optional support message.

Comments
• The illustrations on this Drop-off &
page are examples of Pick-up
directional messages.
Information for these
signs should be based Parking Parking
on specific wayfinding
needs.
• When establishing the
order in which the Amtrak
messages appear, services
straight ahead should be
Thruway Service
listed first followed by
services located to the C5 Sign Type C6a Sign Type
right and then to the
left. The use of diagonal
arrows should logically
follow the established
pattern.
• For proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.7 Exterior Signage
Vehicular Directional
C3, C4, C5, C6, and
C6a Sign Types

Mounting Options

1'-0" min. (12") / 4'-0" max. (48") The following Mounting

(verify in field) Options provide
Line 1
Line 2 guidelines for the
Line 1
Line 2
placement of Vehicular
Line 1 Directionals.
Line 2
* A 1 1/4” diameter

(verify in field)
aluminum “cane

4'-0" (48")
detection rod” shall
be placed 18” above
1'-6"*

grade in conditions
where post and panel
mounting occurs
Curb Edge
within circulation
C5 Sign Type Post and Panel
(C3 and C4 Sign Types Included) paths and clearance
to bottom of sign
panel is less than
6’-8” (80”) above
grade.
Post** ** Where a post does
1'-0" min. (12") / 4'-0" max. (48")
not exist for Sign
(verify in field)
Types C6 and C6a,
provide a 3 1/2”
round aluminum
post with welded
mounting bracket.
Post shall be painted
7'-10" (94") min. / 10'-0" max. (120")

aluminum extending
3” above the top
9'-0" recommended (108")

of the sign. When

mounting Sign Types
C6 and C6a to an
existing post, use a
tensioned metal strap
system.

Curb Edge
C6 and C6a Sign Types
Flag Mounted to Post (Can be single or double flagged)

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Vehicular Directional 6.8
C3, C4 and C5
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting Mounting

Gripper Gripper
9” Module 54"
Unit Size: 1 1/8”
1 1/8"
Arrow Field: 5 5/8”
Symbol Field: 6 3/4”
Text Size: 2 1/4” Cap Line 1
10"

1 1/8"
9"

Height for two lines Line 2

Divider Line: 1/8”
Comments C3 Sign Type
1"

• For additional
information on the use
of the modules, arrows,
symbols and text refer
Line 1
9"

1 1/8"

to Chapter 2.0. Line 2

19"

• The sign layouts shown

here represent typical
Line 1
9"

Vehicular Directionals Line 2

based on a 9” module.
For larger Vehicular C4 Sign Type
1"

Directionals a 12”
module may be used.
• 12” Module Line 1
1 1/8"
9"

Unit Size: 1 1/2”

Arrow Field: 7 1/2”
Line 2
Symbol Field: 9”
Text Size: 3” Cap Height Line 1
28"
9"

for two lines Line 2

Divider Line: 1/8”
Line 1
9"

Line 2
C5 Sign Type
1"

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.9 Exterior Signage
Vehicular Directional
C3, C4 and C5
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Arrow applied reflective White vinyl** • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Volatile Organic
3) Symbol field applied reflective White vinyl** Compound (LVOC)
specifications provided.
4) Frutiger 65 Bold text applied reflective White vinyl**
• AMT Blue
5) Divider lines painted Silver*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
(Divider lines are used only when there is a change in direction)
• Silver
6) Background field painted AMT Blue*
Satin VOC# MP18073
7) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver*
• White
8) 9 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver* Satin VOC# SV202SP
9) Accent bar painted Silver* • Clear Coat
10) 1” deep aluminum panel box and entire sign panel clear coated before VOC Satin Clear
vinyl application* #281228
**Vinyl
Alternate Finishes: • 3M Scotchlite Reflective
Vinyl White #680-10
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl
For fabrication and
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
10 Comments
Line 1 • A 10” diameter x 3”
high concrete shoe is
Line 2 needed below post
base covers in paved
Line 1 installations at stations
C5

C4

Line 2 with winter weather.

Adjust overall sign
Line 1 height per ADA and
C3

Line 2 heights on page 6.7.

• Paint all exposed edges
9 of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
Blue if there are no
8 graphics on back of
sign.

C3, C4 and C5 Sign Types

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Parking Directional 6.10
C6 and C6a
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components Mounting

Gripper 12"
12” Module
Unit size: 1 1/2” 1" 1 1/2"
Symbol Field: 9”
Text Size: 3”Cap Height
for two lines
6” Module 1 1/2"
Unit size: 3/4”
Arrow Field: 3 3/4”
12"

Text Size: 1 1/2” Cap

Height for two lines
Divider Line: 1/8” 3/4"
Comment
25"

For additional
information on the use
6"

of the modules, arrows,

symbols and text refer to
Chapter 2.0.
1"

C6 Sign Type

Mounting
Gripper 12"

1" 1 1/2"

1 1/2"
12"

3/4"
25"

Line 1
Line 2
6"

3/4"
6"
1"

C6a Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.11 Exterior Signage
Parking Directional
C6 and C6a
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Background field painted AMT Blue* • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol field applied reflective White vinyl** Volatile Organic
3) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Compound (LVOC)
specifications provided.
4) Divider line painted Silver* (C6a only)
• AMT Blue
5) Frutiger 65 Bold text applied reflective White vinyl**
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Direction field painted White*
• Silver
7) Arrow painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# MP18073
8) Accent Bar painted Silver* • White
9) 1” gripper extension on mounting side only Satin VOC# SV202SP
10) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* • Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
11) 9 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver* #281228
12) 1/4” thick aluminum panel and entire sign panel clear coated before vinyl
**Vinyl
application*
• 3M Scotchlite Reflective
Vinyl White #680-10
Alternate Finishes:
For fabrication and
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl installation information
12 refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments
1
• A 10” diameter x 3”
2
high concrete shoe is
needed below post
3 base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
4 Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and
Line 1 1 6
7
heights on page 6.7.
Line 2 5 • Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
8
6 • Paint back of sign AMT
7 C6 Sign Type Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
sign.
8

10

11

C6 and C6a Sign Types

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018
Exterior Signage
Freestanding Post 6.12
and Panel Site
Identification Signs
C7 and C8 Sign Types

Sign Overview and

Mounting Options
These branded signs Station Curb
display the Logo Curve and Curb Station
are used for curbside site
identification at C Category
2, 3, and 4 stations. Both Toccoa Toccoa
Station Station
Sign Types can display
For information: For information:
optional Amtrak contact 1-800-USA-RAIL 1-800-USA-RAIL
Amtrak.com Amtrak.com
information, which is
required at unstaffed
stations.
C7 Sign Type
This sign has a vertical
format and is smaller than

1'-6"*
the C8 Sign Type.
C8 Sign Type
C7 Sign Type, Side A C7 Sign Type, Side B
This sign has a horizontal
format and is larger
than the C7 Sign Type.
The logotypes of other
transportation carriers Station Curb Curb Station
can be displayed on C8
Sign Types at intermodal
Downingtown Downingtown
facilities. See page 2.19 on Station Station
co-branding opportunities. For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com

Comments
• Curbside site
identification
nomenclature consists
1'-6"*
of the city name and the
word “Station”. The two
letter state designator
C8 Sign Type, Side A C8 Sign Type, Side B
is not used for curbside
station identification.
• Both Sign Types are
ground mounted.
• Sign use and placement
is coordinated by
Amtrak Signage Brand * A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” above grade
Management. in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within circulation paths and
clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8” (80”) above grade.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.13 Exterior Signage
Freestanding Post
and Panel Site
Identification Signs
C7 and C8 Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

The Freestanding
3'-7" Post and Panel Site
3'-0" Identification Signs have
customized layouts.
Graphic Components,
3'-10 1/2"

Line 1 Line 1
Line 2 Line 2 C7 Sign Type
For information: For information: Logo Curve
1-800-USA-RAIL 1-800-USA-RAIL
Amtrak.com Amtrak.com 3’-0” Wide x
1’-2 3/16” High
8'-0"

Station Name
3 1/4” Cap Height
Amtrak Contact
*** Information
(Optional)*
2 1/8” Cap Height

C7 Sign Type, Sides A and B Graphic Components,

C8 Sign Type
Logo Curve
6'-2" 5’-7” Wide x
5'-7"
1’-2 11/16” High
Station Name
3 7/8” Cap Height
Line 1 Line 1
Line 2 Line 2 Amtrak Contact
3'-7"

For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com

Information
Optional Carrier Optional Carrier
(Optional)*
6'-0"

Logo Area Logo Area

2” Cap Height
Divider Rule
*** (Optional)**
5’-0” Wide x 9/16” High
Optional Carrier Logo
C8 Sign Type, Sides A and B Area:
5’-0” Wide x 9” High
Comments
* Optional Contact
Information is required
*** A 1 1/4” diameter aluminum “cane detection rod” shall be placed 18” at unstaffed stations.
above grade in conditions where post and panel mounting occurs within
** Optional Divider Rule
circulation paths and clearance to bottom of sign panel is less than 6’-8”
is used only with
(80”) above grade.
logo display of other
carrier(s).

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Freestanding Post 6.14
and Panel Site
Identification Signs
C7 and C8 Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawings

* Paint Finishes
• Matthews Acrylic 1) Logo Curve Field painted AMT Blue*
Polyurethane Low
2) Amtrak logo painted White*
Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC) 3) Posts, panels, and bases painted Silver*
specifications provided. 4) Frutiger 65 Bold station name text painted AMT Blue*
• AMT Blue 5) Optional Frutiger 65 Bold Contact Information text and optional
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP Divider Rule painted AMT Blue*
• Silver 6) 1/4” thick aluminum panel and entire sign clear coated*
Satin VOC# MP18073
7) C8 Sign Type only: Optional carrier logo(s) painted in carrier colors
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For additional infor- 2
6
mation on Sign Type
C7 and C8 contact 1
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management. Line 1 4 2
6
Line 2
Comments 1
For information:
• A 10” diameter x 3” 1-800-USA-RAIL 5
Amtrak.com Line 1 4
high concrete shoe is
3 Line 2
needed below post For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com 5
base covers in paved
Optional Carrier 7
installations at stations Logo Area

with winter weather. 3

Adjust overall sign

height per ADA and
heights on page 6.3.
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
C7 Sign Type C8 Sign Type
• Sign Type C7 and C8
are typically located in
a landscaped area.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.15 Exterior Signage
Freestanding Vertical
Site Identification
Pylons
C9 and C10 Sign
Types
Sign Overview and
Mounting Options
Station Curb Curb Station
These branded signs
display the Logo Curve
and are used for curbside
Chicago Chicago site identification at
Union Station Union Station large and medium
stations where use of
tall pylons is appropriate.
Both Sign Types feature
the same design except
for their illumination
techniques.
C9 Sign Type
This sign is internally
illuminated, which is
preferred.
C10 Sign Type
This sign is externally
illuminated as an option
where conditions do
not permit internal sign
illumination.
C9 Sign Type, Side A Side B Side C Side D Comments
Station Curb Curb Station
• Curbside site
identification
nomenclature consists
of the city name and
New Orleans New Orleans the word “Station”.
Union Union The two letter state
Passenger Passenger designator is not used
Terminal Terminal for curbside station
identification.
• The logotypes of
other transportation
carriers can be
displayed on these
signs at intermodal
facilities. See page
2.19 on co-branding
opportunities.
• Both Sign Types are
ground mounted.
• Sign use and placement
is coordinated by
Amtrak management.
C10 Sign Type, Side A Side B Side C Side D

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Freestanding Vertical 6.16
Site Identification
Pylons
C9 and C10 Sign
Types

Sign Size and Layout

The Freestanding Vertical 1'-1"

Site Identification Pylons 6'-0"
have a customized layout.
Graphic Components
Logo Curve Line One Line One
6’-0” Wide x Line Two Line Two
2’-4 3/8” High Line Three Line Three
Station Name
6 7/16” Cap Height
Divider Rule
16'-2"

(Optional)*
18'-0"

5’-1” Wide x 7/8” High Optional Carrier

Logo Area
Optional Carrier
Logo Area

Optional Carrier Logo

Area:
5’-0” Wide x 1’-7” High
Comments
• The sign size shown on
this page is preferred
but can be adjusted
proportionally to
conform with site and
viewing conditions, and
C9 and C10 Sign Types, Sides A – D
with local ordinances.
• Logo Curve Field
extends across sides C
and D; field is different
height on each side.
* Optional Divider Rule
is used only with
logo display of other
carrier(s).

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.17 Exterior Signage
Freestanding Vertical
Site Identification
Pylons
C9 and C10 Sign
Types
Design Intent
Drawing
2
8
C9 Finishes * Paint
1 1) Logo Curve Field painted AMT • Matthews Acrylic
Blue* on sides A-D Polyurethane Low
Line One 3 Volatile Organic
2) Amtrak logo internally illuminated
Line Two Compound (LVOC)
translucent white acrylic, flush fit
Line Three specifications provided.
3) Frutiger 65 Bold station name text
4 internally illuminated clear acrylic • AMT Blue
push-through with translucent Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
AMT Blue vinyl faces** • Silver
5
Optional Carrier 4) Sign box painted Silver* Satin VOC# MP18073
Logo Area 6
5) Optional Divider Rule painted AMT • White
Blue* Satin VOC# SV202SP
6) Optional carrier logo(s) painted in • Clear Coat
carrier colors VOC Satin Clear
#281228
7) Base cladded to match site materi-
als (granite, colored concrete, etc.) ** Vinyl
8) All painted surfaces of sign box • Arlon Calon Series 2500
7 clear coated* Translucent Vinyl #2051
Blue
C9 Sign Type, Side A
For additional
2
information on
8 Sign Type C9 and
C10 Finishes C10 contact Amtrak
1 Signage Brand
1) Logo Curve Field painted AMT Management.
Blue* on sides A-D
Line One 3
Line Two 2) Amtrak logo painted White*
Line Three 3) Frutiger 65 Bold station name text
4 painted AMT Blue*
4) Sign box painted Silver*
5 5) Optional Divider Rule painted AMT
Optional Carrier Blue*
Logo Area 6
6) Optional carrier logo(s) painted in
carrier colors
7) Base cladded to match site materi-
als (granite, colored concrete, etc.)
8) Entire sign box clear coated*

C10 Sign Type, Side A

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Freestanding 6.18
Horizontal Site
Identification
Monuments
C11 and C12 Sign
Types
Sign Overview and
Mounting Options
These branded signs Station Curb Curb Station
display the Logo Curve
and are used for curbside Los Angeles Los Angeles
site identification at large Union Station Union Station
and medium stations
where use of low-lying
monuments is appropriate.
Both Sign Types can display
optional Amtrak contact
C11 Sign Type, Side A Side B Side C Side D
information, which is
required at unstaffed
stations. Both Sign Types Station Curb Curb Station
feature the same design
except for their illumination San Antonio San Antonio
techniques. Station Station
C11 Sign Type For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com

This sign is internally

illuminated, which is
preferred.
C12 Sign Type C12 Sign Type, Side A Side B Side C Side D
This sign is externally
illuminated as an option
where conditions do
not permit internal sign
illumination.
Comments
• Curbside site
identification
nomenclature consists
of the city name and the
word “Station”. The two
letter state designator
is not used for curbside
station identification.
• The logotypes of other
transportation carriers
can be displayed on
these signs at intermodal
facilities. See page
2.19 on co-branding
opportunities.
• Both Sign Types are
ground mounted.
• Sign use and placement
is coordinated by
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.
2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©
 6.19 Exterior Signage
Freestanding
Horizontal Site
Identification
Monuments
C11 and C12 Sign
Types
Sign Size and Layout

10 1/2" The Freestanding

9'-4" Horizontal Site
Identification
Monuments have a
Station Name Station Name customized layout.
Line Two Line Two
5'-9"

Graphic Components
7'-0"

For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com

Optional Carrier Optional Carrier Logo Curve

Logo Area Logo Area
9’-4” Wide x 2’-0” High
Station Name
6 3/8” Cap Height
C11 and C12 Sign Types, Sides A– D
Amtrak Contact
Information
(Optional)*
3 5/16” Cap Height
Divider Rule
(Optional)**
8’-5” Wide x 9/16” High
Optional Carrier Logo
Area:
8’-5” Wide x 1’-3” High
Comments
• The sign size shown on
this page is preferred
but can be adjusted
proportionally to
conform with site and
viewing conditions, and
with local ordinances.
• Logo Curve Field
extends across sides C
and D; field is different
height on each side.
* Optional Contact
Information is required
at unstaffed stations.
** Optional Divider Rule
is used only with
logo display of other
carrier(s).

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Freestanding 6.20
Horizontal Site
Identification
Monuments
C11 and C12 Sign
Types
Design Intent
Drawing

* Paint
• Matthews Acrylic C12 Finishes
2
Polyurethane Low 8 1) Logo Curve Field painted AMT
Volatile Organic 1 Blue* on sides A-D
Compound (LVOC) 2) Amtrak Logo internally illuminated
specifications provided. 4
Station Name translucent white acrylic, flush fit
• AMT Blue Line Two 3
3) Frutiger 65 Bold station name text
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com
internally illuminated clear acrylic
5
• Silver Optional Carrier push-through with translucent
Logo Area
Satin VOC# MP18073 6 AMT Blue vinyl faces**

• White 4) Sign box painted Silver*

7
Satin VOC# SV202SP 5) Optional Contact Information text
C11 Sign Type, Side A
• Clear Coat and Divider Rule painted AMT
VOC Satin Clear Blue*
#281228 6) Optional carrier logo(s) painted in
carrier colors
** Vinyl
• Arlon Calon Series 2500 7) Base cladded to match site materi-
Translucent Vinyl #2051 als (granite, colored concrete, etc.)
Blue 8) All painted surfaces of sign box
clear coated*
For additional
information on 2
8
Sign Type C11 and C11 Finishes
C12 contact Amtrak 1
1) Logo Curve Field painted AMT
Signage Brand 4 Blue* on sides A-D
Management. Station Name
Line Two 3 2) Amtrak logo painted White*
For information: 1-800-USA-RAIL Amtrak.com
5 3) Frutiger 65 Bold station name text
Optional Carrier painted AMT Blue*
Logo Area
6
4) Sign box painted Silver*
7 5) Optional Contact Information text
and Divider Rule painted AMT
C12 Sign Type, Side A
Blue*
6)  Optional carrier logo(s) painted in
carrier colors
7) Base cladded to match site materi-
als (granite, colored concrete, etc.)
8) Entire sign box clear coated*

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.21 Exterior Signage
C13 Sign Type

This page is
intentionally left
blank.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
C14 Sign Type 6.22

This page is
intentionally
left blank.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.23 Exterior Signage
Trailblazer Kits 1-5
C15, C16, C17, C18
and C19 Sign Types

Sign Overview

Trailblazer signs are

used to guide drivers on
public thoroughfares
to Amtrak stations.
Amtrak Trailblazer
signs are stocked in
five (5) kits available
from Amtrak Signage
Brand Management.
They are also available
on the Great American
Stations website (www.
GreatAmericanStations.
com). Each kit contains
C15 Sign Type (Kit #1) C16 Sign Type (Kit #2) sign panels in the
following assortments
along with mounting
hardware. All sign panels
reflect light from car
headlights to enhance
night visibility.
C15 Sign Type (Kit #1)
This kit consists of one
(1) large Trailblazer
and one (1) large arrow
panel, both with white
graphics on green fields.
This kit should be used in
jurisdictions that require
green fields for roadway
trailblazers.
C16 Sign Type (Kit #2)
This kit consists of one
(1) large Trailblazer
and one (1) large arrow
panel, both with AMT
Blue graphics on white
fields. This kit is preferred
and should be used in
jurisdictions that permit
display of trailblazers in
Amtrak’s brand colors.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Trailblazer Kits 1-5 6.24
C15, C16, C17, C18
and C19 Sign Types

Sign Overview
(continued)

C17 Sign Type (Kit #3)

This kit consists of one
(1) large Trailblazer with
the text “Auto Train”
and one (1) large arrow
panel, both with white
graphics on green fields.
This kit should only be
used in jurisdictions with
Auto Train stops.
C18 Sign Type (Kit #4)
This kit consists of one
(1) small logo Trailblazer
and one (1) small arrow
panel, both with AMT C17 Sign Type (Kit #3) C18 Sign Type (Kit #4)
Blue graphics on white
fields. This kit should
be used in jurisdictions
that permit display of
trailblazers in Amtrak’s
brand colors, and only
when conditions require
smaller trailblazers.
C19 Sign Type (Kit #5)
This kit consists of one
(1) small logo Trailblazer
and one (1) large arrow
panel, both with AMT
Blue graphics on white
fields, plus one (1)
symbol panel displaying
the Federal Highway
Administration (FHWA)
train station symbol in
white on a green field.
This kit should be used in
jurisdictions that require
use of the FHWA station
symbol. C19 Sign Type (Kit #5)

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.25 Exterior Signage
Trailblazer Kits 1-5
C15, C16, C17, C18
and C19 Sign Types

Mounting Option

The following Mounting

Mounting holes on back
of arrow panels allow Option provides a
for arrow rotation at 45˚ guideline for the
and 90˚ angles placement of Trailblazers.
Comments
• Trailblazers are for
placement on public
roadways only.
• Trailblazer location,
placement and
mounting height is
the purview of local
transportation officials.
• Trailblazers are
Perforated metal posts mounted to existing or
not included in kits new sign posts supplied
Sign mounting height determined by

by local transportation
local transportation officials

officials.
• All Trailblazer panels
are pre-drilled with
mounting holes spaced
for easy attachment to
standard perforated
metal sign posts. The
circular arrow panels
are pre-drilled with
holes spaced so the
arrow can be rotated in
45 degree increments
corresponding to the
direction to the station
C16 Sign Type (Kit #2)
at a given sign location.
• All Trailblazer kits
contain the proper
quantity of tamper-
proof mounting
hardware to attach
each panel in the kit to
perforated metal sign
posts.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Trailblazer Kits 1-5 6.26
C15, C16, C17, C18
and C19 Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

The sizes of all panels in 36" 36" 36"

each kit are shown on
this page.
The Trailblazer signs have
customized layouts. 36" 36" 36"
Comment
Various positions for
arrow panel mounting
are shown on this page. 18" 18" 18"

C15 Sign Type (Kit #1) C16 Sign Type (Kit #2) C17 Sign Type (Kit #3)
with arrow panel in with arrow panel in with arrow panel in
Hard Left position Straight Ahead position Hard Right position

30”

24" 30”

24"

24”

12"

18”

C18 Sign Type (Kit #4) C19 Sign Type (Kit #5)
with arrow panel in with arrow panel in
Diagonal Left position Diagonal Right position

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.27 Exterior Signage
ADA Station
Entrance Identifier
C20 Sign Type

Sign Overview

These signs are used at

the station entry from
LANCASTER curbside to identify the
station to the visually

STATION impaired.
Raised Character
messages must be
written in capital
letters, raised 1/32” and
be accompanied by a
Grade 2 Braille message
equivalent directly below
C20 Sign Type the Raised Characters.
The C20 Station Entrance
Identifier signs display
the city name and the
word “Station”; they do
not display a two letter
state designation.
C20 signs, which are
located at curbside
station entrances, are
often confused with A12
signs, which are located
at platforms and display
the city name and two
letter state designation.
At Amtrak stops with
only a platform and no
station building, the A12
sign is to be used, not the
C20.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
ADA Station 6.28
Entrance Identifier
C20 Sign Type

Mounting Options

The following Mounting 9" min.

Options provide
guidelines for the CL Tactile
placement Characters
of ADA Station Entrance
Identifiers.
C20 signs must be
mounted as shown
LANCASTER
STATION

for access to Raised

Characters and Grade
2 Braille on the sign
surface.
Comments
• Station Entrance
Identifiers shall be
located so that a
clear floor space of C20 Sign Type Mounted to Wall by Door
18” minimum by 18”
minimum, centered on
Tactile Characters, is
provided beyond the
arc of any door swing CL CL
between the closed
position and the 45
degree open position,
see Chapter 3.0. LANCASTER
STATION
LANCASTER
STATION

• One (1) sign minimum

per curbside entrance
5'-0" (60")
5'-0" 60")

zone, which may have

multiple entry doors.
If multiple entrance
zones, one (1) sign
minimum per zone.
• For ADA mounting
guidelines for Raised
Character signs refer to C20 Sign Type Mounted to Column C20 Sign Type Mounted to
Chapter 3.0. Freestanding Post*
* Sign should be
mounted to
freestanding post only When installing multiple tactile/Braille signs in proximity to each other,
when wall mounting is mount all signs at same height within ADA mounting guidelines.
prohibited such as on ** Field exceptions to mounting height must be in compliance with
the walls of historical DOTAS/SAD 703.4.
stations. Post should
be located as close to
building as possible.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.29 Exterior Signage
ADA Station
Entrance Identifier
C20 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

13 1/2" Graphic Components

4 1/2" 4 1/2” Module
9/16" Unit Size: 9/16”
Text size: 1 1/8” All Caps
Grade 2 Braille
CITY NAME
4 1/2"

9/16"
1 1/8" cap ht.
Comment
STATION
1/32" Raised Characters
Minimum spacing
(Grade 2 Braille) Grade 2 Braille between all Raised
9"

Character pairs shall be

1/8”. Refer to Chapter
3.0 for Raised Character
guidelines.
C20 Sign Type

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
ADA Station 6.30
Entrance Identifier
C20 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

* Paint Finishes
• Matthews Acrylic 1) 
1/4” thick exterior grade photo polymer panel with Raised Characters and
Polyurethane Low Braille, background field, edges, and back painted AMT Blue*
Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC) 2) Frutiger 55 Roman 1/32” Raised Characters, painted White*
specifications provided. 3) Grade 2 Braille painted AMT Blue*
• AMT Blue 4) Entire sign clear coated*
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
5) 2” diameter round post painted Silver* (post mounted signs only)
• Silver 6) 6 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver* (post mounted signs only)
Satin VOC# MP18073
7) 3/16” corner radius (post mounted signs only)
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP 8) Post mounting to anchor full height of sign back

• Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear Alternate Finishes
#281228
1/8” thick etched zinc panel with Raised Characters and Braille
For fabrication and
installation information 4 7
refer to Chapter 11.0.
Comments 1

• Alternate zinc panel CITY NAME 2

to be used for post

mounted signs
STATION 3

(Grade 2 Braille)
and high exposure
locations. 8

• A 6 1/2” diameter x
2” high concrete shoe
is needed below post
base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and
heights on page 6.28.

C20 Sign Type

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 6.31 Exterior Signage
Building
Identification Sign
C21 Brandmark
Sign Type

Sign Overview

The exterior building

mounted Amtrak
Brandmark identifies
a station building as
providing Amtrak service.
It consists of individually
Station Name Here
Second Line
cut or fabricated
elements of the Amtrak
7'-3"
logo, which may be
internally or externally
illuminated.
C21 Sign Type (Brandmark), Horizontal Orientation,
roof-mounted, with C22 Sign Type (Individual Station Name Letters), Depending on
wall mounted architectural conditions
at various stations, the
C21 Brandmark sign may
display the Amtrak logo
in a horizontal or vertical
orientation and the logo
may be white, Amtrak
Blue, satin finished
aluminum, or stainless
Station Name Here steel. Size varies with
Second Line architectural and viewing
conditions, and with local
ordinances.
C21 Sign Type (Brandmark), Horizontal Orientation, The C21 Brandmark sign
with C22 Sign Type (Individual Station Name Letters), both type is typically used in
sign types wall mounted conjunction with the
C22 Individual Station
Name letters sign type.
Depending on a station’s
overall site configuration
and sightlines, the
building mounted C21
and C22 signs may or
may not be paired
with freestanding site
identification sign types
C9, C10, C11, or C12.
Use of the building
identification sign
type C21 and C22
requires review by
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Exterior Signage
Building 6.32
Identification Sign
C22 Individual Station
Name Letters
Sign Type

Sign Overview

Individual Station Name

Letters identify the name ABCDEFGHIJKLMN
of an Amtrak station
building. Frutiger 65 Bold O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
letters are to be used,
typically cut aluminum a b c d e f g h i j k l m n
either surface or pin-
mounted to exterior wall o p q r s t u v w x y z
surfaces.
Depending on
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
architectural conditions Frutiger 65 Bold
at various stations, the
C22 Individual Letters
may be painted white
or Amtrak Blue, satin
finished aluminum, or
stainless steel. Size varies
with architectural and
viewing conditions, and Station Name Here
with local ordinances. Second Line

The C22 Individual 7'-3"

Station Name Letters

are typically used in
conjunction with the C21 C22 Sign Type (Individual Station Name Letters),
Brandmark sign type. wall mounted, with C21 Sign Type (Brandmark), Horizontal Orientation,
Depending on a station’s roof-mounted
overall site configuration
and sightlines, the
building mounted C21
and C22 signs may
or may not be paired
with freestanding site
identification sign types
C9, C10, C11, or C12.
Station Name Here
Use of the building Second Line
identification sign
type C21 and C22
requires review by
C22 Sign Type (Individual Station Name Letters), with
Amtrak Signage Brand
C21 Sign Type (Brandmark), Horizontal Orientation,
Management.
both sign types wall mounted

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 7.1 Regulatory
Signage
“D” Sign Types
Regulatory and
Security Signs

Signs for the Amtrak Graphics Signage System These signs are
have been categorized into five groups. to conform with
applicable codes and
“A” Sign Types represent Platform Signs
regulations, including
“B” Sign Types represent Interior Signs
the Department
“C” Sign Types represent Exterior Signs
of Transportation
“D” Sign Types represent Regulatory Signs
Accessibility Standards
“E” Sign Types represent Electronic Signs
(DOTAS), and are
This chapter includes a comprehensive review of all to be coordinated
static Regulatory and Security Signage (D Sign Types) with the appropriate
within the Amtrak Graphics Signage System. disciplines.
A sign overview, elevations of typical mounting
options, sign size and layout and a design intent
drawing is included for each Sign Type. Note that
not every mounting option is shown. “D” refers to
signs found on station platforms, in station interiors
or at a station exterior. Numeric codes (1, 2, 3, etc.),
following the location prefix “D” help organize and
codify all Sign Types within this category. Sign Types
are listed first by their name and are followed by
their identifying letter and number. For example:
Regulatory, D1 Sign Type.
For additional important information regarding
Regulatory and Security Signs, consult Chapters 1.0,
2.0, 3.0, 9.0, 10.0, and 11.0.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Regulatory
Signage 7.2
Regulatory Signs
D1 and D2
Sign Types

Sign Overview

These signs are used

in station interiors and
exteriors to display
regulatory messages.
D1 Sign Type
These signs display
regulatory symbols only.
D2 Sign Type
These signs display
regulatory symbols
with accompanying
support message text. D1 Sign Type
Comments
In the Event
Regulatory messages may of Fire
include: Use Stairs
• Authorized Personnel
• Do Not Enter D2 Sign Type
• Fire Extinguisher*
• In the Event of Fire
Use Stairs
• No Smoking*
• No Trespassing
• Smoking Area*
• This Is a Smoke-free
Facility
• Custom Message
• For the definition of
Custom Message and
proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 2.0.
* Messages for D1 Sign
Types displayed only
by the corresponding
symbol without text.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 7.3 Regulatory
Signage
Regulatory Signs
D1 and D2
Sign Types

Mounting Options

D1 and D2 Flag Mounted The following Mounting

Plan View Options provide
(Exterior Only) guidelines for the
placement of regulatory
Wall signs.
Mounting Options
2 1) Wall mounted
2) Flag mounted
(exterior only)
Comments
• Refer to state and
local building codes
for compliance.
• Local jurisdictions
2
may mandate use
of verbiage, graphic
style and mounting
requirements different
from Amtrak standards
for regulatory signage.
7'-1" min. (85") / 9’-0" max. (108")
8'-0" recommended (96")

1
4'-1" min. (49") / 5'-10" max. (70")

D1 and D2 Sign Type D1 and D2 Sign Type

Wall Mounted Flag Mounted to Wall or Column
(Exterior Only)

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Regulatory
Signage 7.4
Regulatory Signs
D1 and D2
Sign Types

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 9"

9” Module
Unit size: 1 1/8”
Symbol Field: 6 3/4” 1 1/8"
Mounting
Gripper
4 1/2” Module 3/4"
Unit Size: 9/16”
Support Text Size: Cap
Height just over 3/4”
(9/16” x-height) for three
lines
Comments 1 1/8"
• Mounting gripper for
flag mounted signs
9"

only.
• For additional
information on the
13 1/2"

use of modules, arrows,

symbols and text
refer to Chapter 2.0,
specifically page 2.7.
Line 1
Line 2
4 1/2"

9/16"

Line 3
D1 and D2 Sign Types

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 7.5 Regulatory
Signage
Regulatory Signs
D1 and D2
Sign Types

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Background field painted Scarlet Red* • Matthews Acrylic
Polyurethane Low
2) Symbol field painted White*
Volatile Organic
3) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Compound (LVOC)
4) Message field painted White* specifications provided.
5) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* • AMT Blue
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) 3/4” gripper extension on mounting side only for flag mounted conditions
(exterior only) • Scarlet Red
Satin VOC# SVOC1340SP
7) 1/8” thick aluminum panel for wall mounted signs, 1/4” thick aluminum panel
for flag mounted sign and entire sign clear coated* • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
6 7 • Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
#281228
For fabrication and
1
installation information
2 refer to Chapter 11.0.
D1

3 Comments
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
D2

Blue if there are no

graphics on back of
sign.

Line 1 4

Line 2 5

Line 3
D1 and D2 Sign Types

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Regulatory
Signage 7.6
Safety Signs
D3 Sign Type

Sign Overview

These signs are used

! !
in station interiors, on
platforms and exteriors
to display station
and platform safety
information.
These sign examples
represent some of the
support messages found
on Safety signs. Custom
Messages found on these Restricted Danger
signs should be based on
specific safety wayfinding
Area
needs.
Amtrak Do Not Cross
Comment
Personnel Tracks
For the definition of Only
Custom Message and
proper nomenclature
refer to Chapter 1.0.

! !
Caution Custom
Message
No Strollers or Custom
Large Luggage. Message
Use Elevator. Here

D3 Sign Types

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 7.7 Regulatory
Signage
Safety Signs
D3 Sign Type

Mounting Options

The following Mounting

Station Curb Options provide
Post * guidelines for the
placement of Safety
Signs.
Mounting Options
1) Wall mounted
2) Center post mounted
3 3) F lag mounted
(exterior only)
If sign face is placed
perpendicular to curb,
unattached sign edge
** Round is to point towards

7'-10"min. (94") / 10'-0"max. (120")

Corners curb (see page 6.3).

9'-0" recommended (108”)

Comments
Danger
• Refer to state and local
4'-4"min. (52") / 6'-10"max. (70")

1 Do Not Cross
Tracks codes for
compliance.
2
* Where a post does
not exist, provide a
3 1/2” round aluminum
5'-0" (60")

post with welded

mounting bracket.
Post shall be painted
aluminum extending 3”
above the top of the
sign. When mounting
signs to an existing post,
use a tensioned metal
strap system.
D3 Sign Type D3 Sign Type D3 Sign Type **3/16” corner radius on
Wall Mounted Post Mounted Flag Mounted
(Exterior Only) sign panel for center
post mounted signs.

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Regulatory
Signage 7.8
Safety Signs
D3 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 12"

12” Module Mounting

Unit size: 1 1/2” Gripper
1" 1 1/2"
Symbol Field: 9”
6” Module
Unit Size: 3/4”
Support Text Size: 1 1/2”
Cap Height for two lines 1 1/2"
Support Text Size: Cap
Height just over 3/4”
12"

(9/16” x-height) for three

lines
Comments
• Mounting gripper for
flag mounted signs
25"

only.
• For additional Line 1
6"

information on the
use of modules, arrows, Line 2
symbols and text
refer to Chapter 2.0,
specifically page 2.7. Line 4
3/4"
Line 5
6"

Line 6
1"

D3 Sign Type

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 7.9 Regulatory
Signage
Safety Signs
D3 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing
Finishes
*Paint
1) Background field painted Scarlet Red*
• Matthews Acrylic
2) Symbol field painted White* Polyurethane Low
3) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC)
4) Background field painted AMT Blue*
specifications provided.
5) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted White*
• AMT Blue
6) Background field painted White* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
7) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* • Scarlet Red
8) Safety bar stripespainted Scarlet Red* Satin VOC# SVOC1340SP
9) Safety bar reflective White vinyl** • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
10) 1” gripper extension on mounting side only for flag mounted conditions
(exterior only) • White
11) 3 1/2” diameter round post painted Silver* (exterior post mounted signs only) Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
12) 9 1/2” diameter round base painted Silver* (exterior post mounted signs only)
VOC Satin Clear #281228
13) 1/8” thick aluminum panel for wall mounted signs, 1/4” thick aluminum panel
for flag mounted sign and entire sign clear coated before vinyl application* **Vinyl
• 3M Scotchlite Reflective
Vinyl White #680-10 to
match White
For fabrication and
installation information
13
refer to Chapter 11.0.
1 Comments
2 • For exterior post and
3 flag mounted signs, a
10” diameter x 3” high
concrete shoe is needed
below post base covers
in paved installations
Line 1 4
at stations with winter
weather. Adjust overall
Line 2 5
sign height per ADA and
heights on page 7.7.
Line 4 6

Line 5 • Paint all exposed edges

7
Line 6 of sign Silver.
• Paint back of sign AMT
8
9
Blue if there are no
10
graphics on back of sign.
• 3/16” corner radius on
11 sign panel for center post
mounted signs.
12

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Regulatory
Signage 7.10
Platform End
Restrictive Sign
D4 Sign Type

Sign Overview

These signs are used at

!
platform ends to warn
passengers not to
proceed beyond that
point.
These signs always display
the restrictive message of
AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL
in Raised Characters and
Grade 2 Braille.

AUTHORIZED
PERSONNEL
Authorized Personnel

D4 Sign Type

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 7.11 Regulatory
Signage
Platform End
Restrictive Sign
D4 Sign Type

1 Mounting Option
!
AUTHORIZED
PERSONNEL
Authorized Personnel
The following Mounting
Option provides a

5’-0” (60”)
guideline for the
placement of Restrictive
signs. On side platforms,
only one sign is required
at either end. On island
platforms, either one
or two signs are to be
placed at each end,
depending on the
passenger access.
D4 signs must be
mounted as shown
for access to Raised
Characters and Grade 2
Braille messages on the
sign surface.

D4 Sign Type Mounting Options

At End of Typical High or Low Level Platform, Railing Mounted 1) Railing mounted
CL 2) Post mounted
Comments

AUTHORIZED
! • For ADA mounting
guidelines for Tactile
PERSONNEL

Character signs refer to

Authorized Personnel

2
Chapter 3.0.
**Field exceptions to
5’-0” (60”)**

mounting height must

be in compliance with
DOTAS/SAD 703.4.

D4 Sign Type
At End of Typical High or Low Level Platform, Post Mounted

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Regulatory
Signage 7.12
Platform End
Restrictive Sign
D4 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 12"

12” Module
1-1/2"
Unit size: 1 1/2”
Symbol Field: 9”
6” Module
Unit Size: 3/4” 1-1/2"
Text Size: 1” All Caps
Grade 2 Braille
Comments 12"
• Minimum spacing
between all Raised
Character pairs shall be
1/8”. Refer to Chapter
3.0 for Raised Character
19"

guidelines.
• For additional 3/4"
information on the use LINE 1
of modules, arrows,
LINE 2
6"

symbols and text refer 3/4"

to Chapter 2.0. (Grade 2 Braille)
1"

D4 Sign Type

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 7.13 Regulatory
Signage
Platform End
Restrictive Sign
D4 Sign Type

Finishes Design Intent

Drawing
1) 1/4” thick exterior grade photo polymer panel with raised tactile and Braille
letters, background field painted Scarlet Red* *Paint
2) Symbol field reflective White vinyl** • Matthews Acrylic
3) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
4) Message field painted AMT Blue*
Compound (LVOC)
5) Frutiger 55 Roman 1/32” raised characters, painted White* specifications provided.
6) Grade 2 Braille painted AMT Blue* • AMT Blue
7) Safety bar stripes painted Scarlet Red* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP

8) Safety bar reflective White vinyl** • Scarlet Red

Satin VOC# SVOC1340SP
9) 2” diameter round post painted Silver* (post mounted signs only)
• Silver
10) 6 1/2” Diameter round base painted Silver* (post mounted signs only) Satin VOC# MP18073
11) 3/16” corner radius
• White
12) Entire sign panel clear coated before vinyl application* Satin VOC# SV202SP
13) Post mounting to anchor full height of sign back • Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear #281228
Alternate Finishes **Vinyl
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl symbol field. • 3M Scotchlite Reflective
1/8” thick etched zinc panel with Raised Characters and Grade 2 Braille Vinyl White #680-10 to
match White
For fabrication and
12 11 installation information
refer to Chapter 11.0.
1
Comments
• A 6 1/2” diameter x
2
2” high concrete shoe
3
is needed below post
base covers in paved
installations at stations
with winter weather.
13
Adjust overall sign
height per ADA and
LINE 1 4
heights on page 4.36.
LINE 2 5
(Grade 2 Braille) 6
• Paint all exposed edges
of sign Silver.
7
• Paint back of sign AMT
8
Blue if there are no
graphics on back of sign.
• 3/16” corner radius on
9
sign panel for center post
mounted signs.
10

D4 Sign Type
Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018
Regulatory
Signage 7.14
Safety Tips Sign
D5 Sign Type

Sign Overview

This sign type is used in

station interiors and on
platforms in medium and Safety Tips
large stations to advise
passengers on protecting
their safety in stations In the Station:
and on trains. Always use uniformed
For custom messaging, Amtrak employees
contact Amtrak for assistance.
Signage Brand
Management. Never leave property
unattended.
On the Train:
Always keep valuables
with you.
Never place belongings
under seat.

Amtrak Police Department

1-800-331-0008

D5 Sign Type

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 7.15 Regulatory
Signage
Safety Tips Sign
D5 Sign Type

Mounting Options

1 The following Mounting

Safety Tips Options provide
In the Station:
Always use uniformed
Amtrak employees
for assistance.
guidelines for the
placement of Safety Tips
Never leave property
unattended.
On the Train:
Always keep valuables
with you.
Never place belongings
under seat. signs.
Amtrak Police Department
Amtrak Police Department
1-800-331-0008

Mounting Options
1-800-331-0008

1) Wall mounted

5‘-10” (70”)
2) Column mounted
Comments
• Placed on platforms.
• One (1) sign placed in
proximity to each active
platform stair, escalator,
and elevator landing.
• If sign occurs in interior
D5 Sign Type conditions, refer to
Typical Platform Wall Mounted DOTAS/SAD Table
703.5.5 on page 3.4 for
guidelines on Visual
Character mounting
CL and character heights.

2 Safety Tips
In the Station:
Always use authorized
Red Caps to carry luggage
Never leave property
unattended.

On the Train:
Always keep valuables
with you.
Never place belongings
under seat.

Amtrak Police Department

1-800-331-0008
5’-10” (70”)

D5 Sign Type
Typical Platform Column Mounted

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Regulatory
Signage 7.16
Safety Tips Sign
D5 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

The Safety Tips Sign has a 21"

customized layout.
Graphic Components
Header
Safety Tips
5 1/2"
2” Cap Height
Explanatory Text
1” Cap Height In the Station:
Always use uniformed
Amtrak employees
11"

for assistance.
Never leave property
unattended.
34"

On the Train:
Always keep valuables
with you.
11"

Never place belongings

under seat.

Amtrak Police Department

5 1/2"

1-800-331-0008
1"

D5 Sign Type

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 7.17 Regulatory
Signage
Safety Tips Sign
D5 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Background field painted Scarlet Red* • Matthews Acrylic
2) Frutiger 65 reflective White vinyl text** Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
3) Background field reflective White vinyl** Compound (LVOC)
4) Frutiger 55 and 65 text painted AMT Blue* specifications provided.
5) Background field painted AMT Blue* • AMT Blue
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Frutiger 55 and 65reflective White vinyl text**
• Scarlet Red
7) Safety bar stripespainted Scarlet Red*
Satin VOC# SVOC1340SP
8) Safety bar reflective White vinyl**
• Silver
9) 1/8” thick aluminum panel for all mounting options and entire sign clear coat Satin VOC# MP18073
before vinyl application*
• White
Satin VOC# SV202SP
Alternate Finishes
• Clear Coat
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl text & VOC Satin Clear
background fields. #281228
9 **Vinyl
• 3M Scotchlite Reflective
Safety Tips 1

2
Vinyl White #680-10 to
match White
For fabrication and instal-
4 In the Station: 3
lation information refer
Always use uniformed to Chapter 11.0.
Amtrak employees
for assistance.
Never leave property
unattended.
6 On the Train: 5

Always keep valuables

with you.
Never place belongings
under seat.

4 Amtrak Police Department

1-800-331-0008 3

D5 Sign Type 8

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Regulatory
Signage 7.18
Security
Warning Sign
D6 Sign Type

Sign Overview

This Sign Type is used for

security enforcement in
highly restricted, non Warning
public areas—typically
beyond platform ends
in large stations—to By Order of the Police
warn people of the legal Danger - Keep Off
consequences of entering
the restricted area.
Private Property
No Trespassing
For custom messaging,
contact Amtrak
Signage Brand
Management.
CCTV Cameras In Area
The Police will detain
and prosecute persons
found on this property
without the railroad’s
permission.

Amtrak Police Department

1-800-331-0008

D6 Sign Type

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 7.19 Regulatory
Signage
Security
Warning Sign
D6 Sign Type

Mounting Options

1 The following Mounting

Warning Options provide
By Order of the Police
Danger - Keep Off
Private Property
No Trespassing
guidelines for the
CCTV Cameras In Area
The Police will detain
placement of Warning
signs.
and prosecute persons
found on this property
without the railroad’s
permission.

Amtrak Police Department

1-800-331-0008

Mounting Options
1) Wall mounted

5‘-10” (70”)
2) Column mounted
Comment
• Sign use and placement
is coordinated by
Amtrak management.
• If sign occurs in interior
conditions, refer to
DOTAS/SAD Table
703.5.5 on page 3.4 for
D6 Sign Type
Typical Platform Wall Mounted
guidelines on Visual
Character mounting
and character heights.

CL

2 Warning
By Order of the Police
Danger - Keep Off
Private Property
No Trespassing

CCTV Cameras In Area

The Police will detain
and prosecute persons
found on this property
without the railroad’s
permission.

Amtrak Police Department

1-800-331-0008
5’-10” (70”)

D6 Sign Type
Typical Platform Column Mounted

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Regulatory
Signage 7.20
Security
Warning Sign
D6 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

The Security Warning 21"

Sign has a customized
layout.
Graphic Components
Warning
5 1/2"
Header:
2” Cap Height
Explanatory Text: By Order of the Police
1” Cap Height
Danger - Keep Off
Do Not Enter Symbol: Private Property
11"

3“ diameter
No Trespassing
34"

CCTV Cameras In Area

The Police will detain
and prosecute persons
11"

found on this property

without the railroad’s
permission.

Amtrak Police Department

5 1/2"

1-800-331-0008
1"

D6 Sign Type

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 7.21 Regulatory
Signage
Security
Warning Sign
D6 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing

Finishes *Paint
1) Background field painted Scarlet Red* • Matthews Acrylic
2) Frutiger 65 reflective White vinyl text** Polyurethane Low
Volatile Organic
3) Background field reflective White vinyl** Compound (LVOC)
4) Symbol painted AMT Scarlet Red*. specifications provided.
5) Frutiger 55 and 65 text painted AMT Blue* • AMT Blue
Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
6) Background field painted AMT Blue*
• Scarlet Red
7) Frutiger 55 and 65 reflective White vinyl text**
Satin VOC# SVOC1340SP
8) Safety bar stripes painted Scarlet Red*
• Silver
9) Safety bar reflective White vinyl** Satin VOC# MP18073
10) 1/8” thick aluminum panel for all mounting options and entire sign clear coated • White
before vinyl application* Satin VOC# SV202SP
• Clear Coat
Alternate Finishes VOC Satin Clear
#281228
* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl text &
background fields. **Vinyl
10 • 3M Scotchlite Reflective
1
Vinyl White #680-10 to

Warning 2
match White
For fabrication and
installation information
5 By Order of the Police refer to Chapter 11.0.
Danger - Keep Off
3
Private Property
No Trespassing
4

7 CCTV Cameras In Area

The Police will detain
and prosecute persons
found on this property
without the railroad’s
permission.

5 Amtrak Police Department 3

1-800-331-0008

D6 Sign Type 9

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Regulatory
Signage 7.22
Area of Refuge Sign
D7 Sign Type

Sign Overview

This sign is used on

center island platforms to
designate an area where
mobility impaired persons
can wait for assistance in
event of an emergency.

AREA OF
REFUGE
AREA OF REFUGE

In the event of
an emergency,
please wait here
for assistance.

D7 Sign Type

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 7.23 Regulatory
Signage
Area of Refuge Sign
D7 Sign Type

Mounting Option

1
The following Mounting
CL
Option provides a
guideline for the
placement of the Area of
Refuge Sign.
D7 signs must be
AREA OF
REFUGE
mounted as shown
AREA OF REFUGE

for access to Raised

In the event of
an emergency,
Characters and Grade 2
please wait here
for assistance.
Braille messages on the
sign surface.
Mounting Option
1) Post mounted
Comments
5'-0" (60")**

• Refer to state and local

codes for conformance.
• For ADA mounting
guidelines for Tactile
Character signs refer to
Chapter 3.0.

D7 Sign Type

** Field exceptions to mounting height must be in compliance with

DOTAS/SAD 703.4.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Regulatory
Signage 7.24
Area of Refuge Sign
D7 Sign Type

Sign Size and Layout

Graphic Components 12"

12” Module
Unit size: 1 1/2” 1 1/2"
Symbol Field: 9”
6” Module
Unit Size: 3/4” 1 1/2"
Support Text Size: 1” Cap
Height for three lines
Support Text Size:
3/4” Cap Height (5/8”
12"

x-height) for four lines

Comments
• Minimum spacing
between all Raised
Character pairs shall be
1/8”. Refer to Chapter
25"

3.0 for Raised Character AREA OF

guidelines.
REFUGE
6"

• For additional AREA OF REFUGE

information on the use

of modules, arrows,
3/4"
symbols and text In the event of
refer to Chapter 2.0,
an emergency,
6"

specifically page 2.7.

please wait here
for assistance.
1"

D7 Sign Type

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 7.25 Regulatory
Signage
Area of Refuge Sign
D7 Sign Type

Design Intent
Drawing
Finishes
1) 1/4” thick exterior grade photo polymer panel with raised tactile and Braille *Paint
letters, background field painted Scarlet Red*
• Matthews Acrylic
2) Symbol field reflective White vinyl** Polyurethane Low
3) Symbol painted AMT Blue* Volatile Organic
Compound (LVOC)
4) Background field painted AMT Blue*
specifications provided.
5) Frutiger 55 Roman 1/32” raised characters, painted White*
• AMT Blue
6) Grade 2 Braille painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# SVOC1142SP
7) Background field painted White* • Scarlet Red
8) Frutiger 65 Bold text painted AMT Blue* Satin VOC# SVOC1340SP
9) Striped safety bar painted Scarlet Red* • Silver
Satin VOC# MP18073
10) Warning stripes reflective White vinyl**
• White
11) Entire sign panel clear coated before vinyl application*
Satin VOC# SV202SP
12) 3/16” corner radius
• Clear Coat
VOC Satin Clear
Alternate Finishes #281228

* Matthews White Satin VOC# SV202SP paint for reflective White vinyl symbol field **Vinyl
1/8” thick etched zinc panel with Raised Characters and Grade 2 Braille • 3M Scotchlite Reflective
Vinyl White #680-10 to
match White
For fabrication and
12 installation information
1 refer to Chapter 11.0.
2 Comments
3 • For exterior post and
flag mounted signs, a
10” diameter x 3” high
concrete shoe is needed
11
below post base covers
in paved installations
5 at stations with winter
AREA OF weather. Adjust overall
4
REFUGE sign height per ADA
6
AREA OF REFUGE
and heights on page
7.23.

In the event of • Paint all exposed edges

7
an emergency, of sign Silver.
please wait here 8 • Paint back of sign AMT
for assistance. Blue if there are no
graphics on back of
9
sign.
D7 Sign Type 10

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 8.1 Electronic Signage
“E” Sign Types
Electronic Signs

Signs for the Amtrak Graphics Signage System have Electronic signage shall
been categorized into five groups. be closely coordinated
with the Amtrak IT
“A” Sign Types represent Platform Signs
department’s design
“B” Sign Types represent Interior Signs
standards, currently
“C” Sign Types represent Exterior Signs
a separate design
“D” Sign Types represent Regulatory Signs
document. Contact
“E” Sign Types represent Electronic Signs
Amtrak Signage
This chapter includes a graphic review of Electronic Brand Management at
Signage within the Amtrak Graphics Signage System. AmtrakSignageBrand-
Amtrak has updated most of its electronic Sign Types Management.com for
and is directing a national implementation of these an Amtrak IT point of
new units. Since this is a nationally coordinated effort, contact.
the PIDS (Passenger Information Display Systems) Sign
Types E1 through E9 cannot be ordered for individual
stations. Contact SignageBrandManagement@Amtrak.
com for information on PIDS.
Electronic sign systems require individual configura-
tions. A sign overview, elevations of typical mount-
ing options, sign size and layout, and a design
intent drawing is included for each electronic Sign
Type. Note that not every mounting option is shown.
General specifications given in this chapter are based
on available technology as of date of publication of
this Manual and they are subject to change. Sign types
are listed first by their name and are followed by their
identifying letter and number. For example: Visual
Messaging System, E3 Sign Type.
For additional important information regarding
Electronic Signs, consult Chapters 1, 2, 3, 9, 10, and 11.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 9.1 Typical Sign
Location Diagrams

Sign messages and their locations constitute the

Amtrak sign information content system. It is important
to follow Amtrak nomenclature and usage and
style guidelines in Chapter 1.0 to ensure consistent
sign messaging throughout the Amtrak nationwide
passenger facility network. Message hierarchy
guidelines are in this chapter.
The locations where sign messages are posted are
affected by a large number of factors, including
operating clearances for locomotives and service carts,
a wide range of DOTAS/SAD requirements (see Chapter
3.0), sight lines, obstructions, viewing distances, and
required placement distances, such as for platform
station identifiers and boarding locations.
Individual stations have unique needs, however.
In order to insure smooth traffic flow throughout
the facility, every station is at a minimum required to
implement the following signage:
Street and Parking
• Station Identification
• Direction to Trains
Station
• Direction to Trains, Ground Transportation,
• Identification of Major Amenities, Tickets and
Baggage, and Restrooms
Platforms and Tracks
• City, State Identification
• Direction to Station

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Typical Sign
Location Diagrams 9.2
Message Hierarchy

The Amtrak approach to To ensure functionality of the Amtrak Graphic Signage

providing information System, information must be presented in such a way
requires a systematic as to allow for smooth traffic flow throughout the
display of different station facilities.
types of messages as
The placement of all signs must reflect the needs of
passengers’ needs vary
the user. By presenting digestible amounts of messages
throughout the different
far enough in advance of a decision point, passengers
environments in the
can prepare for what is ahead. The progression usually
station.
starts with broad general information and moves, as one
Directional signing is of approaches a decision point, towards more specific and
great importance. When detailed information. Within the Amtrak Signage System,
used correctly, proper messages should progress from general (Trains) to specific
directional signing (Gate, then Track Number and Boarding Location). Note
will assist in the rapid that the following are amentity needs, not messages.
movement of vehicles,
visitors, and customers. The typical sequences of concern entraining are:
Success or failure of a 1. Approach/Parking/Passenger Drop-off
station’s design and its 2. Tickets
signing will be measured 3. Baggage Check-in
by the ease, speed, 4. Restrooms
comfort and access to 5. Trains
and from the various
destinations within the The typical sequences of concern detraining are:
station. 1. Station
Comments 2. Restrooms
3. Baggage Claim
• The location plans in this 4. Ground Transportation
chapter are diagrammatic 5. Street
and represent general
arrangements for various Exterior Site Conditions
platform and station Passengers approaching a station will require immediate
building categories. information directing them to Parking, Passenger Drop-
Configurations of actual off/Pick-up and the station entrance.
stations will vary and signs
should be located and Interior Conditions
messaged according to Once at the station entrance, these same passengers
each site’s layout. will require information leading to the interior of the
• The word “Exit” should station where they will then find information regarding
be avoided for wayfinding public and passenger services. Once the Tickets/Baggage
signage due to potential Check-in process is completed, the passenger requires
confusion with building guidance to the Waiting Area, Gate/Track locations as
code emergency exit well as additional reinforcement of train information.
signage. Instead, direct
detraining passengers from Platform Conditions
the platform to the station Once passengers have purchased tickets and checked in
and from the station to their baggage, they will require guidance to Track or
the street and/or ground Gate locations and finally Boarding Locations for proper
transportation. boarding and seating.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 9.3 Typical Sign
Location Diagrams
Historical Buildings

Any structure or collection of structures deemed A historic building is

important to the history, architecture or culture of an one that has received
area is considered a historic landmark. The Secretary an official designation
of the Interior has established standards for the from local, state, or
historic preservation of these properties. Guidelines for federal governmental
rehabilitating historic buildings have been established entities.
to ensure the preservation of qualities for which each
property was listed.
Accessibility to historic buildings is required by the
Americans with Disabilities Act as well as other state
or local laws. Federal regulations have been developed
to provide guidance on how to meet both accessibility
and historic preservation requirements. Compliance
with these requirements, in addition to local and state
regulations is required when incorporating the Amtrak
Graphic Signage Standards.
For additional information refer to The Secretary of
the Interior’s Standards for Treatment of Historical
Properties (updated 2017), available at www.nps.gov/
tps/standards/treatment-guidelines-2017.pdf.
Contact Amtrak Signage Brand Management at
[email protected]
regarding implementation of Amtrak Graphic Signage
Standards at designated historical facilities.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Typical Sign
Location Diagrams 9.4
Stub-end Platforms

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

Stub-end platforms are

Access from Station (refer to typical station plans)

approached from one
end only. This diagram
represents a typical sign
location plan for a
multiple platform site.
It may be accessible at
grade or by raised A1a A1a

A12
A7

A7
A7

A7
D4

platforms. A1a A1a

Stations at the end of

a line do not require
signs with information
regarding train’s origin/
destination. The city and A1a A1a

A12
A7

A7
D4

A7

A7
state name alone will A1a A1a
suffice.
Comments
• Columns, stairs,
elevators and other
structures along
platform centerlines
Recommended Sign Placement
can obstruct sightlines Signs should be placed along active platform at intervals indicated below.
of signs located
perpendicular to the A1 or A1a 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
platform. In such
A7 85'- 0" apart minimum, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
cases, signs should
be placed along both A12 Placed on platform in uniform location as approaching primary egress
sides of platform point(s) from platform, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
for obstruction-free
viewing.
• Electronic signage
is not indicated on
these sign location
layouts. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for more
information.
Key to Sign Layout
A1a Branded City Identifier
A7 Boarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier (suspended)
A12 ADA City/State Identifier
D4 Restrictive Sign

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 9.5 Typical Sign
Location Diagrams
Center Access
Platforms

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

Station This diagram represents a

(refer to typical station plans) typical sign location plan
Access not for a multiple platform
at Grade site not accessible at
(shaded area indicates track overpass grade.
or underpass from station)
Stations at the end of
a line do not require
signs with information
regarding train’s origin/
A2 A12 A2 destination. The city and
state name alone will
A1 A1
A12

A7

A7
A7

A7

D4
D4

A1 A1
suffice.
B7

B7

A2 elevator A12 A2
Comments
• Columns, stairs,
elevators and other
D4 D4

D4 D4 structures along
platform centerlines
can obstruct sightlines
A2 A12 A2 of signs located
A1 A1 perpendicular to the
A12

A7

A7

D4
D4

A7

A7

A1 A1 platform. In such
B7

B7

A2 elevator A12 A2
cases, signs should
be placed along both
sides of platform
D4 D4 for obstruction-free
viewing.
• Electronic signage
is not indicated on
these sign location
Recommended Sign Placement layouts. Contact
Signs should be placed along active platform at intervals indicated below. Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for more
A1 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
information.
A2 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management Key to Sign Layout

A7 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management A1 City/State Identifier
A2 Direction Bar
Placed on platform in uniform location as approaching primary egress A7 Boarding Location
A12 point(s) from platform, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management Marker and Track
Identifier (suspended)
A12 ADA City/State Identifier
B7 Gate Identification
(in overpass/underpass
from station)
D4 Restrictive Sign

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Typical Sign
Location Diagrams 9.6
Multiple Through-
track Platforms

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

The diagram shown Station

below illustrates a typical or Shelter
Track Crossing
sign location plan for a
Access at Grade
multiple platform site
(refer to typical station plans)
with through-track
traffic. A2 A2
A1 A1
Access is at grade. A12
D4

D4
A1 A1
Contact Amtrak Signage

A6

A6
A6

A6
A2 A2
Brand Management
for specific signage
requirements for
pedestrian crossings on A2 A2

A6

A6
A6

A6
active tracks. A1 A1
A12
D4

D4
A1 A1
Comments A6

A6
A6

A6
A2 A2
• Columns, stairs,
elevators and other
structures along
platform centerlines D4 D4

can obstruct sightlines

of signs located
perpendicular to the
platform. In such
cases, signs should Recommended Sign Placement
be placed along both Signs should be placed along active platform at intervals indicated below.
sides of platform
for obstruction-free A1 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
viewing.
A2 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
• Electronic signage
is not indicated on A6 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
these sign location A12 Placed on platform in uniform location as approaching primary egress
layouts. Contact point(s) from platform, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for more
information.
Key to Sign Layout
A1 City/State Identifier
A2 Direction Bar
A6 Boarding Location
Marker and Track
Identifier with Arrow
A10 Passenger Information
and Timetable Display
A12 ADA City/State Identifier
D4 Restrictive Sign

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 9.7 Typical Sign
Location Diagrams
Single Through-track
Platform

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

Station or Shelter The diagram shown

(refer to typical station plans) below illustrates a typical
sign location plan for a
A1a A12 A1a single platform site with
through–track traffic.
D4

A4

A4
A4

A4

D4
Access is at grade.
Contact Amtrak Signage
Brand Management
for specific signage
D4 D4 requirements for
pedestrian crossings on
active tracks.
Comment
Recommended Sign Placement • Electronic signage
Signs should be placed along active platform at intervals indicated below. is not indicated on
A1a or A1b 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management these sign location
layouts. Contact
A4 85'-0" minimum apart, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management Amtrak Signage Brand
A12 Placed on platform in uniform location as approaching primary egress
Management for more
point(s) from platform, consult with Amtrak Sign Brand Management information.
Key to Platform Layout
A1a Branded City/State
Identifier
OR
A1b Branded City/State
Identifier
(for platform areas
facing curbside parking)
A4 Boarding Location
Marker
A12 ADA City/State Identifier
D4 Restrictive Sign
*Single through-track
platforms typically do
not require signs with
information regarding train’s
origin/destination.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Typical Sign
Location Diagrams 9.8
Category 1
Large Stations

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

The illustrated station is Key to Sign Layout B17 Women (on wall) C4  Parking/Amtrak
shown for signage B18 Men (on door) Thruway Bus
B1 To Trains
purposes only. Additional B18 Women (on door) C9 -  Site Identification
B2 Trains/Restrooms C12 Monument (Sign Type,
requirements that may
B2 Taxis/Street/Parking B20 Mechanical Room size and illumination to
impact the station design
B21 Authorized Personnnel be determined)
and layout can be found B7  Tickets & Baggage
in the Amtrak Station Check-in B24 Branded Station Hours C20 ADA Station Entrance
Identifier
Design Guidelines. B7 Passenger Services B25 Horizontal Travelmark
Station is designed at Ticket Counter D2 Smoke-free Facility
B7 Amtrak Welcomes You
to efficiently handle to “City Name” B27  Station Identification
moderate to heavy B14 Telephones C1** Reserved Parking **Signage to comply
passenger loads. with all applicable
B15 Restrooms C2* Amtrak Thruway codes.
Comments B15 TTY Bus
B17  Baggage Claim C2*  Passenger Drop-off
• Electronic signage and Pick-up
is not indicated on B17 Men (on wall)
C2* Taxis
these sign location
layouts. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
NOTE:
Management for more
All signage for Large Stations needs to be reviewed with the assistance of design professionals
information.
*Sign face placed
perpendicular to curb. Platform (refer to typical platform plans)
Unattached sign edge
to point towards curb. B7 D2

Private
B15

B1 Offices
B14

B21

Baggage
Room

B25
B7

Station Interior
B7
B2
B7
B15

B2
B20 B18 B17 B17 B18
Vending

C1

B24 B24
C1

C20 D2
B27
C2
C2

C2

Sidewalk

One Way
C12

C10 or
C11 or

C9

C4
or

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 9.9 Typical Sign
Location Diagrams
Category 2
Medium Stations

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

Key to Sign Layout B18 Women (on door) C12 Monument (Sign Type, The illustrated station
B21 Authorized size and illumination to is shown for signage
B2 Trains/Restrooms be determined)
Personnel location purposes only.
B2 Taxis/Street/Parking C20 ADA Station Entrance
B24 Branded Station Hours Additional requirements
B7 Tickets & Baggage Identifier
B25 Horizontal Travelmark that may impact station
Check-in D2 Smoke-free Facility
at Ticket Counter design and layout can
B7  Baggage Claim
B27 To Trains be found in the Amtrak
B7 Amtrak Welcomes You **Signage to comply Station Manual. Station
to “City Name” C1** Reserved Parking
with all applicable is designed to efficiently
B14 Telephones C2*  Amtrak Thruway Bus codes. handle moderate
B15 Restrooms C2*  Passenger Drop-off passenger loads.
and Pick-up
B15 TTY
C2* Taxis Comments
B17 Men (on wall)
C4  Parking/Amtrak • Electronic signage
B17 Women (on wall) Thruway Bus is not indicated on
B18 Men (on door) C9 -  Site Identification these sign location
layouts. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for more
information.
Platform (refer to typical platform plans) *Sign face placed
perpendicular to curb.
B7 Unattached sign edge to
point towards curb.
D2 B21 B7

B27 Baggage Room

i.03
B21

Ticket
Office
Waiting Area
B7

B25

B18

B15
B17

C1

B2

B2
B17 B18

Vending
C1

B14 B15

C20 D2
C2

C2

C2

B24 B24 Sidewalk

C9 or
C10 or
One Way
C11 or
C12 C4

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Typical Sign
Location Diagrams 9.10
Category 3
Caretaker Stations

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

The illustrated station Key to Sign Layout C2*  Amtrak

is shown for signage Thruway Bus
B1 Street/Parking/Trains
location purposes only. C2*  Passenger Drop-off
B14 Telephones
Additional requirements and Pick-up
B15 TTY
that may impact station C7 - Site Identification Sign
design and layout can B17 Men (on wall) C8 (Post and Panel)
be found in the Amtrak B17 Women (on wall) C20 ADA Station Entrance
Station Manual. Station B18 Men (on door) Identifier
is designed to efficiently B18 Women (on door) D2 Smoke-free Facility
handle light passenger
B21 Authorized Personnel
loads. **Signage to comply
B24 Branded Station Hours
Comments with all applicable
B26 Vertical Travelmark codes.
• Electronic signage on Wall
is not indicated on C1** Reserved Parking
these sign location
layouts. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for more
information.
Platform (refer to typical platform plans)
*Sign face placed
perpendicular to curb.
Unattached sign edge
to point towards curb.
Utility
B21

Room C1 C1
B17
B17

B18 B18
D2

Storage
B14
C20
B21

B15
B26
B24
B1

C2
Waiting Area

B14

C7
C2

Sidewalk or
C8

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 9.11 Typical Sign
Location Diagrams
Category 4
Shelter Station

Recommended Sign
Location Layout

A11 & A12 Location in platform area to be determined for each station The illustrated station
Platform (refer to typical platform plans) is shown for signage
location purposes only.
Additional requirements
that may impact station
design and layout can
B14

C1 C1
be found in the Amtrak
Shelter Area Station Manual. Station
is designed to efficiently
Exterior
handle minimal
passenger loads.
C7
or
C8 Comments
• Electronic signage
is not indicated on
these sign location
layouts. Contact
Amtrak Signage Brand
Management for more
information.
Key to Sign Layout
A11 Station Information
Display Case
A12 ADA City/State Identifier
B14 Telephones
C1** Reserved Parking
C7 - Site Identification Sign
C8 (Post and Panel)

**Signage to comply
with all applicable
codes.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 10.1 Recommended
Maintenance of
Signs
Maintenance and
Parts Replacement

• S crews and bolts must be tightened periodically. To ensure that

Check for missing screws, nuts and bolts. These the Amtrak
tend to get lost during maintenance procedures. Graphic Signage
•D
 amaged bolts and screws must be replaced System continues
immediately. Damaged signs that may present a to effectively
hazard should be removed or replaced immediately communicate a
(i.e., rusting that threatens the structural integrity positive brand
of a sign unit, deterioration of electrical wiring or image, the following
broken sign faces). guidelines for repair
and replacement must
•C
 heck sign boxes and anchor bolts for cracks. be followed closely.
Suspended signs are in constant motion, putting
stress on bolts and stop nuts.

• F or the removal and installation of any sign,

contact a sign installation professional or
[email protected].
• F or additional signs required at a station site,
contact a sign installation professional or
[email protected].
•A
 ll signs must be checked after significant events
including hurricanes, earthquakes and wind loads
exceeding 60 mph.
•R
 emove graffiti and replace vandalized sign
components, such as broken glass, promptly
to prevent further vandalism. Contact
[email protected]
if information is needed on graffiti removal or
replacement of vandalized sign parts.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Recommended
Maintenance of
Signs
10.2
Cleaning

Amtrak Signs should Painted Metal and Plastic Signs, Unpainted

be properly and Aluminum and Stainless Steel Letters and
periodically cleaned to Graphics
maintain their clarity These surfaces are cleaned most easily using mild
and effectiveness. soaps, detergents or solvents applied to the surface
The following with a soft cloth or sponge. For more stubborn stains,
guidelines must solvents such as rubbing alcohol, mineral spirits or
be followed when Bestine may be used.
cleaning signs. Do not use scouring pads or cleaners containing
abrasives, which will scratch surfaces. If heavy duty
cleaning is required, professional assistance should be
requested.

Plastic and Vinyl Signs

Cleaning should be done with a soft cloth and
window cleaner. Do not use cloths containing grit,
abrasive particles or scouring compounds to clean
plastic as they will scratch and damage the sign
surface.

Brass Letters
Some older stations may have brass lettering that was
part of the original station design. Extreme care must
be taken when cleaning any brass surface. Cleaning
should only be done utilizing a soft cotton cloth. The
use of soaps, detergents or solvents is not recom-
mended as they may cause scratches in the finish,
requiring a new clear coat finish to deter the letters
from pitting.

Internally Illuminated and Electronic Signage

Maintenance contracts with the signage supplier are
strongly recommended. Frequency of cleaning varies
with local conditions. Specific methods of cleaning
must be coordinated with the supplier.
Supply voltage and grounding must be checked.
Voltage drops can affect the life of lamps and ballasts.
Time clocks and energy management systems must
be checked as they may be operating 24 hours a day,
shortening lamp life and increasing your energy costs.

Granite and Concrete

These surfaces should be cleaned with a mild soap and
a soft bristled brush for most cases. In the event that
the surface has an embedded stain, a power sprayer
and a mild soap may be utilized. However, this should
be done only by an experienced professional.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 10.3 Recommended
Maintenance of
Signs
Why Coating
Systems Fail

Many factors influence the life and performance

of coating systems. Recognizing the exposure condi-
tions and specifying the proper coatings is the first
step in obtaining satisfactory coating performance.
Specifying adequate preparation and coatings, com-
bined with on-the-job inspection during preparation
and application, serve to assure the best possible coat-
ing performance.
Broadly defined problems which cause deterioration
fall into one or more of the following categories. The
station site should be examined to assess the presence
of these either separately or in combination.
1. H
 eat
Heat can cause coatings to discolor, blister and
burn off.
2. M
 oisture
This problem may include exposure to steam,
humidity, condensation or actual immersion in
water. Coatings shall repel moisture to protect
the surface.
3. I mpact
Concrete will wear and can crack and chip. This
material may require special coatings.
4. A
 brasion
All surfaces in high traffic areas are subject to
damage from abrasion.
5. A
 tmospheric Corrosion
Constant exposure to the elements—rain, cold,
heat, temperature changes and the ultraviolet rays
of the sun—may wear away a protective coat-
ing. For a coating to work effectively, it must be
tough enough to resist the elements and be flexible
enough to expand and contract with the surface to
which it is applied.
6. C
 hemical Corrosion
Acids and alkalies will attack and destroy ordinary
protective coatings.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 11.1 Sign Fabrication
and Installation
The Amtrak
Paint System

Sign Paint System Description Amtrak Sign Paint

In general, the paint system used for Amtrak signs System
is a low VOC, ultraviolet inhibited aliphatic acrylic MPC – Matthews Paint
polyurethane applied over pretreatment coatings and Company
primers, as appropriate for each sign substrate material. MAP – Matthews Acrylic
All signs are clear coated with low VOC satin clear coat Polyurethane
unless indicated otherwise on design intent drawings.
MAP VOC-compliant
Matthews Paint Company (MPC) manufactures the
paint and clear coat
paint system used for most Amtrak sign applications,
designations, and
formulated around Matthews Acrylic Polyurethane
standard AMT colors, are
(MAP) as the pigmented topcoat. MAP VOC-compliant
included on page 2.10.
paint and clear coat designations, and standard AMT
colors, are included on page 2.10. Comment
This paint system is for
Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) Requirements
application over new,
To promote a greener environment, the Amtrak never-painted substrates.
paint system specifies paint coatings compliant with If painting over existing
governing VOC-emission requirements. VOC-compliant painted signs, this
coatings, although more expensive, are required to system will blister and
have equal performance properties to conventional peel. Therefore, another
coatings. paint system should be
Cleaning, Pretreating and Painting selected where painting
over existing paint is
Clean, pretreat, paint and clear coat according to
based upon a history of
procedures recommended for each substrate in the VOC
successful use. In general,
MAP Substrate Application Guide, available online at
painting over existing
www.matthewspaint.com.
signs is discouraged.
Touch-up after Installation
Perform after-installation touch-up with VOC-compliant
coatings in accordance with paint manufacturer’s
recommendations.
Touch-up of Damage: Signs damaged before or during
shipment are unacceptable. Only minor on-site damage
may be touched-up, subject to Amtrak’s acceptance.

Painting on Plaster, Gypsum Board and Cork

Do not use Matthews Acrylic Polyurethane (MAP) or any
other polyurethane on these surfaces. Another type of
paint system should be selected based upon history of
successful use.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

Sign Fabrication
and Installation 11.2
Graphics Application

Permanent Graphics
Permanent sign graphics are to be applied by frisket
(mask) painting or by silkcreening. Both processes
provide good durability and reproduction quality, and
can be substituted for each other. Silkscreen inks must
match Amtrak paint colors specified on page 2.10. All
painted and silkscreened graphics must be applied
before signs are clear coated.

Cut Vinyl Graphics

Cut Vinyl Graphics are for use on signs only where
specified, as the primary or alternate finish in the
design intent drawing for each Amtrak Sign Type.
Follow vinyl manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning
and preparation of specific surfaces to which the
vinyl is to be applied, and for application of the vinyl.
Apply clear coat before vinyl application.

Digital Printing
Exterior grade digital printing can be used, when
approved, for small portions of sign surfaces. Proofs
can be obtained to help ensure that digitally-printed
colors match the Amtrak standard Pantone colors on
page 2.10. Digital printing can also be used when
other transportation carrier logos are displayed
on Amtrak co-branded signage, upon approval by
Amtrak Signage Brand Management. All digitally
printed graphics are to be overlaminated with a clear
non-glare film.

2018 ■ Amtrak Signage Manual©

 11.3 Sign Fabrication
and Installation
Sign Construction
Drawings

Sign Construction Drawings

Drawings and specifications for fabrication of Sign
Types contained in this manual are the responsibility
of design professionals working on Amtrak facilities.
Amtrak may provide typical generic detail drawings
for reference by the design professional when
preparing construction documents upon request
and with submission of plans for review. These
drawings, which are not be used in lieu of obtaining
shop drawings from selected sign fabricators, can be
obtained by contacting SignageBrandManagement@
amtrak.com.
Amtrak personnel seeking to obtain signs for their
facilities should contact SignageBrandManagement@
amtrak.com.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018

 12.1 Sign Procurement
Process

Primary Resource
Consider Amtrak Signage Brand Management as
your resource for signage, branding and wayfinding
for your station project. Please contact us at
[email protected].

Design Review
The Great American Stations website contains the Amtrak
Station Program and Planning Guidelines and the Amtrak
Signage Manual to assist with developing the scope of
your project, available at GreatAmericanStations.com.
As all station projects have their unique characteristics,
the signage scope should be established in conjunction
with Amtrak Signage Brand Management. Amtrak
expects signage elements to be included in construction
document submittals no later than the 60 percent
submission, and preferably in the 30 percent submission.
Provisions for electronic signage should be made during
the early conceptual design stages.
Signage Fabricators

Amtrak Signage Brand Management may assist by

providing a list of architectural signage fabricators
experienced in meeting Amtrak standards. Amtrak may
have recently-competed, active procurement contracts,
which may be helpful in expediting the process.

Quality Control
Amtrak Signage Brand Management must provide review
and acceptance of shop drawings prior to fabrication.
This requirement is based on prior experience with
fabricators making changes in materials, fonts, sizes, and
other substitutions. To mitigate any delay in obtaining
shop drawing approvals, Amtrak Signage Brand
Management may designate its graphic designers to
provide this service directly to you.

Trailblazer Highway Signage

To complete wayfinding for your station project,
Amtrak offers trailblazer highway signage (see Chapter
6.0, pages 6.23 through 6.26) and “Community
Signage” to cities at no charge. Delivery is generally
to a Public Works yard or to a facility of the State
Highway Department. Requests are to be submitted to
[email protected] with
point of contact, delivery address, and phone number.

Amtrak Signage Manual© ■ 2018