New billboard installed on Highway 101
Second sign expected to be installed in spring 2021
One of two new welcome billboards has been installed on private property along northbound U.S. Highway 101, just south of the
Kenmar Road exit.
The billboard says “Welcome to Fortuna,” with a view of the Eel River as it flows by the River Lodge, along with bright yellow daffodils and a redwood tree framing the left side of the sign.
Noah and Jessica Collins, owners of Humboldt Connection in Fortuna, created and installed the new billboard. The couple said they wanted to create a design using classic postcard artwork as an inspiration.
“The real goal was to replace the old, rundown billboard with something bright and fresh that will grab attention from the highway,” said Noah Collins.
The Collins’ expressed appreciation for being given the opportunity to design the new billboard, as well as to all who helped with the installation. They said as it was being installed hundreds of motorists honked as they drove by.
Fortuna Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Renee Lindsay said the new billboard will help draw attention to the fact that there is something for everyone in Fortuna.
“Our goal with the first billboard is to encourage travelers heading north to pull off the highway and discover Fortuna,” she said, “and experience all that we have to offer, (like) lodging, retail, shops and restaurants, personal services, hiking trails, and beautiful parks.”
The Fortuna Chamber Tourism and Marketing Committee took the lead in coordinating the billboards project, something that has been under discussions for the last several years.
Lindsay said she and the Chamber of Commerce are delighted with the new billboard.
“I’m really proud of the work that Jessica and Noah did on it,” she said, “and feel that the simplicity of the landscape and colors captures the eye from the highway, without being ostentatious and taking away from the natural beauty of our area.”
The second new billboard along Highway 101 is a work in progress and installation is scheduled for next spring. It will be located in close proximity to the newly installed “Welcome to Fortuna” billboard.