A local landmark in the San Diego North County town of Encinitas has received a fresh look with a refurbishment. It is the town identy – well, other than the surf spots and beach – the sign above Coast Highway 101 in its downtown area.
The rusting letters have been replaced and it now has energy-efficient LED technology. The project also included repairing rust and structural wear and repainting the sign.
“We are proud to partner with the City of Encinitas in restoring this historic landmark,” said Andrew Russell, California service general manager of YESCO, the company that handled the restoration and modernization of it. “A fresh coat of paint and upgraded lighting bring new life, visibility and vibrancy to an iconic sign.”
Like many cities and communities in San Diego, the sign stretches across a roadway that serves as a welcoming landmark to visitors. It was first erected in 1928 by the local Chamber of Commerce. and was illuminated by incandescent bulbs. The current sign was installed in 2001. The new LED lighting system uses a fraction of the energy required by traditional neon, improving efficiency while preserving the sign’s nighttime glow.
YESCO replaced the existing “ENCINITAS” letters, which had experienced corrosion after years of exposure to coastal elements. The new letters were fabricated to match the original design while improving durability and weather resistance. The project also included repairing rust and structural wear and repainting the sign.
The restoration also included updating of the sign’s lighting system from its original neon tubing to modern LED technology. While the existing neon has illuminated the landmark since its installation in 2001, the upgrade significantly improves efficiency while maintaining the warm glow that made the sign a beloved nighttime beacon along Highway 101. LED lighting consumes a fraction of the energy required by neon tubing, while offering greater reliability and longevity.
“Working on the City of Encinitas sign refurbishment project was an incredible experience,” said Justin Henderson, service account executive at YESCO. “It was rewarding to help refresh and highlight signage that represents such a vibrant coastal community. Seeing the finished result — and knowing it contributes to the city’s visual identity and welcoming atmosphere — made the project especially meaningful. YESCO is proud to have played a role in bringing new life to these important public signs.”
Read and learn more about Encinitas here, including its top bars and restaurants.
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