Early on April 20, a striking new metal gateway sign was installed, unveiling a bold and iconic entrance on Mill Avenue just north of University Drive.
The gateway includes metal letters spelling ‘MILL AVE’ floating 20 feet above the street on flexible catenary cables. The artwork was fabricated by Spectacle, an Arizona-based company that has created public art across the Valley and custom fabrication for major events across the country.
“Mill Avenue is a global destination and plays a noteworthy part in the history of our city,” said Tempe Mayor Corey Woods. “By adding this gateway sign, we are honoring the significance of this place for all members of Tempe’s community.”
This is one of the final elements of the Downtown Tempe Refresh project, which has added more than 100 trees along Mill Avenue, renovated the traditional red brick sidewalks and updated electrical, irrigation and lighting systems. It’s the first complete update to the area in more than 40 years.
The gateway sign not only enhances the district’s identity but also celebrates Downtown Tempe’s ongoing evolution as an energetic and welcoming destination. As improvements continue throughout the area, Tempe remains committed to creating public spaces that reflect community pride and elevate the Mill Avenue experience for all.
Gateway sign fun facts: Each letter is 4 feet, 3 inches tall, and the entire sign spans 94.5 feet wide. The pylons stand 27 feet tall, high enough to clear the streetcar and its cables. Altogether, the gateway weighs approximately 36,300 pounds, with each pylon weighing about 17,000 pounds and the letters themselves weighing about 2,300 pounds. The cables are tensioned so the letters do not sway or bounce, and both the pylons and letters are internally lit to create a glowing effect at night.
