If you’ve driven through Goodland recently, you may have noticed something familiar — beautifully renewed and proudly welcoming you in. The iconic Goodland sign has officially returned.

Located at the foot of the Stan Gober Bridge, marking the gateway to the famous Goodland curves along CR 92, the sign has greeted residents and visitors alike for decades. Originally created by Kevin Hawke, many longtime residents remember it standing watch as far back as 1999, quietly becoming part of Goodland’s identity.

Time, however, takes its toll — especially in a coastal village. Sun, salt, rain, and repeated hurricanes slowly wore the sign down. Hurricane Irma proved to be the final blow, tearing the sign face completely off and tossing it into the lot across the bridge. Despite earlier community repainting efforts led by Denise Santos and local volunteers, the damage eventually became irreparable.

After receiving multiple costly bids, the Goodland Civic Association initially planned to replace only the top portion of the sign. Instead, the GCA chose a different path — turning the effort into a community-wide fundraiser and inviting everyone to become part of Goodland’s history.

Launched in June 2025 through social media, GCA members, and local businesses, the response was overwhelming. By July, the fundraiser not only covered the cost of recreating the sign, but exceeded expectations, allowing for additional improvements.

That community support made it possible to repaint the pilings, refresh the marketing boards beneath the sign, and begin plans for solar lighting, which are still in the works. A permanent donor recognition wall is planned for the Goodland Community Center.

The new sign was recreated as closely as possible to the original, honoring its history and character while ensuring it will stand strong for years to come.

So next time you pass through Goodland, slow down and take a look — it’s more than just a sign. It’s a reminder of what community spirit looks like in Goodland.