Nearly 10 years after concepts for a similarly placed piece of welcoming public art fizzled out, the City of Eureka has announced that plans for the long-discussed South Gateway Monument Sign are starting to take definitive shape. And here’s the design we’re going with:

Do you not feel welcomed? Read more about the new sign in the City of Eureka release below:

The City of Eureka, in collaboration with Caltrans, is excited to unveil the design for the new South Gateway Monument Sign, a landmark that will welcome residents and visitors entering the city from the south via U.S. Highway 101 at the Herrick Avenue Overpass. This project is made possible through funding from Governor Gavin Newsom’s Clean California Program, a statewide initiative dedicated to enhancing and revitalizing public spaces.

“We want to express our gratitude to Caltrans. After years of working towards this project, we are finally able to move forward thanks to their support and funding,” said Swan Asbury, Economic Development Manager for the City of Eureka. “Our vision for this sign was guided by five objectives: authenticity to Eureka, durability and ease of maintenance, inspiration from local architecture, local craftsmanship, and nighttime visibility.”

The design was a collaborative effort between the City of Eureka, Caltrans District 1, and architect Julian Berg, with input from a subcommittee of the City’s Design Review Committee. The monument sign reflects Eureka’s architectural heritage, incorporating design elements from the Sequoia Park Zoo entrance and historic brickwork found throughout the city. The structure will be complemented by native plants, boulders sourced from State Route 299, and illuminated for visibility at night. Positioned at the Herrick Avenue Overpass, the sign will create a welcoming entryway for those arriving from the south.

“As a Eureka native, it has been an honor to contribute to this meaningful project,” said Julian Berg, Architect. “The design draws from the materials and architectural elements that define our region—brick, redwood timbers, black ironwork, and plaster—while also incorporating lush native plantings that reflect our coastal environment. After several design iterations, I believe we’ve created a gateway that truly represents our unique community. I’m excited to see it come to life and hope it instills pride in residents and visitors alike.”

Caltrans also emphasized the broader significance of the project. “Caltrans is proud to collaborate with the City of Eureka on this initiative,” said Julia Peterson, Clean California Coordinator, Caltrans District 1. “This new monument sign will enhance Eureka’s southern entrance while aligning with Clean California’s mission to create cleaner, safer, and more welcoming public spaces for all.”

The South Gateway Monument Sign is scheduled for installation this summer. Looking ahead, the City of Eureka aims to install a complementary North Gateway Monument Sign when funding becomes available, creating a cohesive and inviting entrance on both ends of the city.

For more information, please contact Swan Asbury, Economic Development Manager, at (707) 268-1830 or via email at sasbury@eurekaca.gov.

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