Hudson landmark sign campaign launches this fall

by Judy Stringer

The Hudson Leadership Class of 2024 will begin fundraising this fall for the installation of a 20-foot-long “Hudson” sign, most likely to be placed on the Park Lane Green.

Hudson Leadership is an annual program administered by Hudson Rotary that introduces participants to business and community leaders in hopes of nurturing their own interest in civic service opportunities. Each class also develops a unique project that will benefit the community. Notable past projects have included the Hudson Farmers Market, Screen on the Green and the solar panels at Barlow Community Center.

This year’s class of 11 residents aims to endow Hudson with its own Instagramable landmark, much like the Cleveland Script Signs or those that can be found in Kent, Eastlake and Bay Village.

Michael Gaffney, a participant in the 2024 class, said he came up with the idea after thinking about how the Cleveland signs have become a go-to destination for tourists and special moments like wedding and prom photos.

“It seems to make sense to me that we would have one of those,” he said. “Fortunately, everyone else agreed.”

The sign also appealed to participants because it is more of a one-and-done, Gaffney said, as opposed to an annual or ongoing initiative.

“We wanted a project that we could do and be proud of and then go back to our otherwise busy lives,” he said.

Cost estimates peg the roughly 20-by-5-foot installation at about $25,000, according to Don Barker, another LH 2024 participant. The group presented plans for the sign to Hudson City Council on July 23. Some of the council feedback included placing the sign on the Park Lane Green (rather than First and Main Green as originally proposed), using block lettering similar to what is on the recently re-created Hudson flag and reaching out to the community for input prior to presenting a final design.

“Council talked about [the sign] being like a gateway to downtown, which would position it more on the corner [of state Routes 91 and 303], or it could be more embedded in the green, which is kind of what we would prefer,” explained class member Lisa Canterbury.

“In parallel, there is also a master plan that’s now being developed for all of the greens and Hudson,” Barker said. “So, while we are confident it’s going to be on the Park Lane Green, we are going to let that process play out for guidance on the best placement there.”

Class member Marietta Marquart said residents can show their support by donating. Plans are to inscribe the back of the landmark with the names of donors at selected levels. The group also will apply for grants.

“I think this sign is really important as a representation of the unity of our community,” Marquart said. “We are always there for each other. If there’s ever a family crisis, a house fire, a flood, we’ve proven time and time again that we can come together. … We’re proud of Hudson, and this is an opportunity to be a part of creating a lasting memorial of that pride.”

For information on how to donate, email Marietta Marquart at mariettamarquart@gmail.com. ∞