Foundation Gifts New Digital Sign to College
The East Central College Foundation is gifting the college a new digital sign in recognition of 50 years in the community.
The ECC Board of Trustees Monday approved the bid of $119,920.71 from Ziglin Signs to design and install the message sign at Highway 50 and Prairie Dell Road in Union. Plans call for the sign to be erected later this spring.
There will be no expense to the college for the sign, according to Dr. Jon Bauer, ECC president.
“This has been on our radar since the mid-90s, if not earlier,” he told trustees. “The expense is not something we could afford ourselves.
“This will be a terrific addition to the campus, highlighting what is going on and marking the location,” Dr. Bauer added.
Foundation Executive Director Bridgette Kelch said the Foundation is honored to celebrate the 50-year anniversary.
“For half a century, East Central College has been the standard bearer for postsecondary technical and professional education in the region,” Kelch said. “The Foundation board is very excited to make this gift to the college and we are excited to see it go up.”
She noted that the Foundation board has been discussing a 50th anniversary gift for nearly a year before ultimately choosing the sign.
“This is a wonderful gift,” said Ann Hartley, board of trustees president. “I am really excited to see it.”
The pylon sign will be double-sided and visible from east- and westbound Highway 50.
“It will angled so that it will be visible to traffic from west and east from a good distance,” Dr. Bauer noted.
The sign will be 35 feet tall. It will be controlled remotely.