An executive of Squamish Savings says the downtown branch may undergo a facelift a little sooner than expected after one of its two light-backed signage boxes plummeted to the ground from the second storey on Friday (Aug. 24). The sign came crashing down on Winnipeg Street around the corner from the main entrance just after noon and before the weekend -easily the busiest time of the week for any financial institution. Employees and customers of the credit union were shocked to hear, and feel, a loud crash, said Ian Cornish, interim general manager.
"Oh yes, we certainly heard it," said Cornish. "There were screams from the people inside. My executive assistant saw it go right past her window."
No one was injured, or even nearby, but Cornish said the institution is taking the matter very seriously nonetheless, and workers quickly removed a second sign above the main entrance on Second Avenue as well. The signage for the Garibaldi Highlands branch has also been checked closely to ensure it is secure.
"I don't know why it came down. It's a major concern for us - one would assume that a sign like that would be secure. Our facilities department in Vancouver will be reviewing what happened and trying to understand why [it occurred]," said Cornish, adding he is thankful no one was hurt. "We don't underestimate the importance of such a thing, we're taking it very seriously.
"Needless to say, the new one will be firmly secured."
The sign was installed in 2002, and why it came crashing to the ground is anyone's guess at the moment, said Cornish. However, some employees speculated it might have been due to nearby construction. Office workers reported feeling the building shake throughout the week, and it was evident again Friday morning.
"There was a quite noticeable shuttering. I was sitting in my office earlier in the day and felt it," said Cornish. "But it's only conjecture at this point. I can't say with any certainty what caused the building to shake or, ultimately, the sign to fall."
The downtown branch may be slated for possible upgrades to both the interior and exterior of the building, according to management. Cornish said it's possible the permanent signage won't be replaced until that has been finalized.
A temporary plastic banner is being produced for the location and will likely be up early next week. "Fortunately everyone knows where we are," said Cornish.
