More Than a Sign for Preston

Residents of Preston and tourists alike have taken notice of a huge welcome sign in a prime location facing the southbound traffic descending on Highway 52 where the speed limit drops to 40 mph.

This “WELCOME TO PRESTON” sign is pretty hard to miss.

Located at the city’s tennis courts (probably should be called pickleball courts based on usage), the big blue mesh sign with large white lettering measures at a whopping 8 feet tall and 65 feet wide.

While the sign was recently removed for safe storage during the winter months, Preston EDA Director Michelle Marotzke explained that the banner will be on display during the spring, summer and fall months.  Typically mid-March to mid-October.

The massive banner was purchased from LetterWerks Sign City in Decorah, Iowa, at a cost of $1,800.

This project was part of a more substantial grant, according to Marotzke.  “The City of Preston was awarded $25,000 from the Taylor Rural Improvements Grant to assist with the Follow the Trout Route! Project.”  The Taylor Rural Improvements Grant was administered by Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), which has provided support for many rural communities in our region with the establishment of area community foundations.

Wearing two hats, Preston Tourism Director and Preston Area Chamber of Commerce Director Mandy Huston shared, “Through a brainstorming session via the Preston EDA and Preston Area Chamber of Commerce, the idea of a ‘Trout Route’ was formed. The Trout Route is a colorful pathway guiding residents and visitors into the heart of downtown Preston and to our US-Hwy 52 businesses. And then through a collaborative effort with the City of Preston, Preston Economic Development Authority (EDA), Preston Area Community Foundation, Preston Area Chamber of Commerce, and Preston Tourism, it came to fruition. More signage is to come throughout town and the trail.”

Alison Leathers, serving as a Preston EDA board member and on the Trout Route EDA subcommittee, elaborated on the additional signage.  “The banner is just one part of the larger Trout Route project, which also includes the upgrades to the Main Street pocket parks, updated signage throughout town, and a new Preston map – as large signs at the Trailhead and City Hall and also printed copies for people to take – that highlights all of our evergreen assets as well as the two state bike trails’ maps on the back.” 

Gabby Kinneberg, representing the Minnesota Veterans Home – Preston, added “it’s funny we never thought of hanging a sign there before.  Sometimes having a fresh perspective really helps fuel new ideas and it’s been really fun to see all the new things that Mandy has come up with.  She is a great asset to Preston!”

Preston Tourism Director Huston said, “We’ve received nothing but positive feedback.  Both residents and visitors have commented on how nice it looks and how visible it is as they enter town.”  EDA Director Marotzke added, “It is an impressive and welcome sight to see when coming into town from the north on Highway 52.”

While the City of Preston has a typical community sign near the city limits on both ends of Highway 52, this new big blue banner represents more than a sign.  It represents collaboration and innovation involving various community members.  This “WELCOME TO PRESTON” banner represents a community that wants people to embrace everything they have to offer.  Just like the sign says, they want people to feel welcome.