Phase 2 Plan Announced For 'Glenwood' Sign On Highway 34
This sign greets motorists on eastbound Highway 34 as they approach the Glenwood exit ramp.
Plans to enrich the appearance of the “GLENWOOD” sign that welcomes Highway 34 motorists to the community were unveiled recently to the Glenwood City Council.
“I’m excited to share that we are moving into Phase 2 of the Glenwood Sign Project along Highway 34,” said Michelle Grassau, who was among a group of Mills County Chamber Of Commerce Leadership program graduates to spearhead the project.
“As many of you know, this sign is a key landmark and one of the first impressions people have when entering our community.”
In Phase 2, Grassau said the plan is to enhance the sign’s visibility and overall appearance by laying out 40 feet of rock across the front, creating a clean, structured base that draws attention to the sign.
“This design also addresses a current challenge—brome grass growing in front of the sign, which reduces visibility and makes upkeep more difficult,” she said. “By replacing that area with rock, we ensure the sign remains clear and easy to see year-round.”
The planting of a selection of low-maintenance native plants will provide natural framing on each side of the sign, Grassau said.
“These plantings will not only soften the stonework but also highlight Glenwood’s connection to its local environment, while requiring minimal upkeep,” she said. “This next step will give the sign a more polished, welcoming and lasting look that reflects Glenwood’s pride and hospitality.”
Grassau said Mills County Master Gardeners are assisting with planning and plant selection for Phase 2 of the project.
The 6-foot tall by 30-foot wide limestone-based sign, which greets eastbound Highway 34 motorists as they approach the exit ramp to the city, was installed last fall. The word “GLENWOOD” is in black lettering and solar-powered “halo” lighting behind the letters lights the sign up during darkness.
Grassau, Amber McClary, Chloe Hammers and Kelsi Leininger worked behind the scenes for nearly two years working with Iowa Department Of Transportation officials, engineering consultants and contractors while securing funding for the nearly $50,000 required for the project’s construction.