Sign of the times

Ava Adams
IVN intern

After a winter weather delay, a brand-new welcome sign is finally taking shape on the north side of town. The project, a collaboration between the city of Cave Junction and TLC Construction Contractor Tim Lemons, is expected to be completed within the next two weeks.
Roger Brant, Illinois Valley history enthusiast and former Oregon Caves employee, explained in an interview that the sign’s design is “rooted in history,” drawing inspiration from a 1930s catalog created by the Forest Service and Civilian Conservation Corps specifically for Oregon and Washington’s Pacific Northwest regions. Brant said, “The sign’s design is kind of a nod to the town’s past.”
Once complete, the sign will feature lighting installed by Pro Electric, enhancing its visibility, and a friendly Sasquatch fabricated by Big Dog Fabrication and Welding, representing the spirit of our town.
The purpose of the new sign is to boost tourism and beautify the area. With its rich history and natural attractions, Cave Junction is poised to attract more visitors, and this new welcome sign is the perfect introduction. City recorder Rebecca Patton said she and others working on the project “hope that adding visually appealing aspects like the welcome sign and the power boxes will draw the eye of travelers and give the town a better reputation.”
The city is excited for the town’s people to finally see the new landmark once its finished, which will join the ranks of other signs in the area, including those at The Oregon Caves, Grayback Campground and the Visitor Center.