Lorain County’s newest tourist attraction is clearly a vibrant sign of the times. The three-dimensional script “Lorain” sign, crafted by Kuhn Fabricating, is a fitting complement to the city’s burgeoning reputation as a premier destination for visitors and locals alike. Installed at the northeast corner of West Erie and Broadway avenues, the 17-foot-long, 8-foot-high white steel beacon has quickly become an attention-getter, as well as a fitting backdrop for photo ops. Throughout the coming months, it’ll be bathed in a changing palette of lights to reflect holidays including Christmas, Valentine’s Day, St. Patrick’s Day and Easter.
“We’re very excited about this project,” says Lewie Kuhn, president of Kuhn Fabricating, a Lorain-based firm specializing in heavy sheet metal, structural steel and plate weldments since 1970. “It’s going to be there for a very long time. The sign will become part of the city’s history, and I’m proud of the fact that our company will be part of that history.”
Kuhn adds that the idea was sparked by a community-wide collaboration which includes support from Lorain County realtor Andrea Neal and designer Brian Bartlebaugh. The cost is approximately $25,000, with donations funding the sign, as well as lighting and landscaping.
Born and raised in Lorain, Kuhn is excited about the changes he sees taking place in his hometown.
“Over the past five or six years, Lorain has really made a comeback,” the Lorain Catholic High School graduate says. “Restaurants are opening, the hotel has re-opened and the marina is being revitalized. I’m thrilled that I can do my part to help my city.”
