Governor Greg Gianforte unveiled the new design for Montana’s highway welcome signs on April 8, joined by Montana Department of Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio and Montana Department of Transportation Director Chris Dorrington.
The event marks the first update to the state’s border signage in over a decade. The governor said, “It has been over a decade since Montana had a new welcome sign at our states borders. The Treasure State is already the most welcoming, business friendly state in the country and now our brand will be one of the first impressions they get when they enter the state.”
In November, three final designs were presented to Montanans, who were invited to vote for their favorite until December 31. Over 11,000 residents participated in selecting the winning design. Director Bertoglio said, “This new sign incorporates the new Montana Brand, which we proudly unveiled last year at the World Famous Mile City Bucking Horse Sale. Montanans made a great choice. From the badlands and prairies of eastern Montana to the vast mountain ranges of western Montana, this design represents the Treasure State well.”
The updated signs are scheduled for installation at entry points across Montana later this month as weather and access allow. The previous signs were installed in 2014.
Director Dorrington commented on community involvement: “I’m excited to have the new ‘Welcome to Montana’ sign displayed at entry points across our great state. The design represents all of Montana and will be a refreshing sight for Montanans returning home. Chosen by citizens, it reflects the character of our entire state, and I look forward to seeing the team begin installation.”
Images and video from today’s unveiling are available online.
