This signage project was designed and constructed in 2014. Darden Architects worked with the Fresno Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Fresno Class to develop this structure as a gift to the City of Fresno. The city has not had a “welcome” identification sign until now, and the chamber felt it was long overdue. Fresno is the fifth largest city in California and it was important that the sign present a positive image and message to visitors.

The design is meant to represent some of the many facets of the community and history of Fresno. The metal banding represents the manufacturing and fabrication industry that provides so many jobs in the area. The use of timber represents the nearby national parks, and the rock base symbolizes the San Joaquin river. Finally, the seal of the city, which depicts grapes, represents the agricultural history of this area and its importance to the city.