The city of New Port Richey is taking the initiative to welcome visitors in impressive fashion, with a unique 20-ft wide welcome sign boasting an avenue of sabal palms, lighted message board and other landscaping features set to adorn the city’s entryway near U.S. 19 and Main Street. Residents and city council members first posed the idea years ago, and grant money, along with working out the logistics with Augustine Constructions Inc., recently finalized their mission, proving that this quaint Florida town is serious about developing an inviting atmosphere for all who enter.
City Unveils New Welcome Sign and Landscaping Feature
New Port Richey is proud to showcase the progress it has made in recent years with the unveiling of its new welcome sign and landscaping feature. This impressive 20-foot wide sign will greet visitors entering the city from U.S. 19 and Main Street, marked by an avenue of sabal palms and a programable lighted message to share information about the city and its happenings. Work on this exciting project is set to begin soon, further demonstrating New Port Richey’s commitment to developing an inviting atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
The Community Redevelopment Agency, comprised of New Port Richey’s City Council members, awarded the project to Augustine Construction, Inc., the low bidder of two submitted proposals, earlier this month. The design was created by an architect hired in 2020, and will include the installation of palm trees, other landscaping and an irrigation system along the Main Street stretch off U.S. 19. According to Robert Rivera, the city’s public works director, the sign will be a proud focal point for tourists, declaring who they are and the events they have. He added that 60,000 people drive by the intersection every day.
City Manager Debbie Manns stated that the idea of establishing the formal welcome sign has been around for years and the time had come to create the iconic entrance as “an extension of our branding campaign.” The sign will be an exciting addition to the area, adding to the already existing Keiser University site and multi-story parking garage, as well as the newly reopened Hacienda Hotel, a part of the city’s history.
The city manager began by stating that the idea of establishing the formal welcome sign has been around for years and the time had come to create the iconic entrance as “an extension of our branding campaign.” The sign would be an exciting addition to the area, adding to the already existing Keiser University site and multi-story parking garage, as well as the newly reopened Hacienda Hotel, a part of the city’s history.
Council members Matt Murphy, Peter Altman, and Kelly Mothershead all expressed their enthusiasm for the project with Murphy noting that it will be tall enough to let floats through for the annual Chasco Fiesta parade. Altman added that he hopes the city can partner with Keiser University to develop an open area for college students to enjoy the outdoors. While Mothershead was concerned about the cost of the project, she acknowledged its necessity, saying “It’s definitely needed.”
Council Member Mike Peters added his own thoughts of support, saying “It’s a beautiful concept. If I saw it, I would want to drive in.” With the redevelopment agency money designed to enhance the redevelopment district, it was clear that all members of council were in agreement and proud of the project.
The new welcome sign and landscape design that will be established in New Port Richey will be a remarkable addition to a downtown area adorned with historical hotels, existing Keiser University sites, and multi-story parking garages. Through this project, New Port Richey is clearly prioritizing the presentation of their city to all who visit, hoping visitors and locals can experience the warm welcome within this iconic entrance. To conclude, rebranding the city through a powerful, focused symbol, such as this impressive 20-foot wide welcome sign, indicates great progress by signaling an official welcome to tourists and an emphasizing sense of community for local residents.
