DETROIT – The Detroit sign along I-94 continues to attract attention, and people are learning that there are rules to protect both the sign and the people who come to see it.
Detroit installed its own “Hollywood” style sign along the freeway for visitors of the upcoming NFL draft to see as they enter the city.
The sign, which was unveiled along eastbound I-94 between Central Street and Cecil Avenue, was a collaboration between the city, DTE Energy, MDOT, FHWA, and the Fairmount Sign Company.
The letters took several weeks to build and a few days to install, but now that they’re up, residents in the area want to keep it that way by protecting them as onlookers are parking along the emergency lane, climbing up the freeway to get a closer look.
“This is our landmark right here, not the tire,” said a resident. “This is Detroit right here.”
The sign celebration in southwest Detroit continues into another week, and driving by is the total effect.
“I love seeing the big bold letters as it makes me proud of the city,” said a woman.
“Driving by it is when you get the full effect,” said another woman.
If anything, many people online and on social media making fun of the sign and its stature only encouraged more people to come to check it out
No one has more fun celebrating the sign than District 6 Manager Eva Torres.
“I come by often because I am actually such a fan of it,” said Torres.
Reports of people climbing the sign brought back memories of those Sinola clocks placed around town that were tagged immediately.
The sign is protected by a tall fence and protected by the neighbors, who feel honored that it is there.
“We are protective of it,” said Torres. “The sign is something to be extremely proud of. The Detroit Police Department has been paying special attention to it. We want to make sure that everyone is able to enjoy it safely.”
“Leave the sign alone,” said the man. “I am grateful for it.”