BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A New Welcome Sign for Visitors
Bowling Green is set to gain a warm and inviting new feature for those coming into town. A project along I-165 is in the works to create a welcome sign that will greet visitors from Butler County and further afield. Although it may currently resemble a pile of dirt, this site will soon transform into a prominent marker welcoming drivers to Warren County.
Details of the Signage
The chairman of Operation PRIDE, Johnny Webb, shared his vision for the sign: “There’ll be two stone walls here… have big red Bowling Green letters at the top… Warren County and then home of Western Kentucky University… flagpoles behind it…” He went on to emphasize the display of patriotism with a 130-foot flagpole that will fly a 30 by 60-foot American flag. Additionally, there will be flagpoles displaying flags of all branches of the military.
Donation of Land
The land for this project has been generously donated by its owner, Malcolm Cherry. He revealed that the idea for the sign came up at a flag-raising ceremony at the Corvette Museum. Cherry recounted how Johnny Webb approached him about the space, asking if he was aware of who owned it. Cherry stated, “I don’t know if that was a set up or not, but I’m glad it happened… and I said, ‘I own it, and I will gladly donate it to this project.’” This gesture highlights community spirit and commitment to making Bowling Green a welcoming place.
Comparisons to Existing Signs
When completed, the welcome sign will bear resemblance to existing signs found on I-65 at various exits, specifically exits 20, 26, and 30. Webb expressed his hope that this new project will serve as a gateway for visitors coming into Bowling Green. He aims to ensure that everyone coming to Warren County, whether they are traveling from the south, north, or west, will feel welcomed. “People coming in to Bowling Green from western Kentucky, southern Illinois, southern Indiana… this is how they would come in to Bowling Green… so we’ve been missing… a gateway, if you will, for those folks,” he stated.
Timeline for Completion
Webb estimated that the project would be completed in about 6 weeks, signaling an exciting development for the community and its visitors. The hope is that this sign will not only welcome guests but also instill local pride within residents.
Community Significance
This project symbolizes more than just a welcome sign; it’s a representation of Bowling Green’s growth and aspirations. It signifies a collective effort to enhance the city’s image and to say, “You are welcome here.” As the work progresses, residents and travelers alike will be eager to see how this initiative unfolds and the impact it will have on community spirit.
As the countdown begins toward the unveiling of this new feature, there is a palpable excitement in the air. When the sign is finally erected, it will not only serve as a directional marker but also as a heartfelt invitation to all travelers to stop and experience what Bowling Green has to offer.
