Apparently what goes up must come down, even at Domino Sugar.
Domino Sugar Baltimore disclosed today that it plans to replace the big neon Domino Sugars sign that’s visible from all around Baltimore’s Inner Harbor with an LED sign that will “mimic” the look of neon.
“For nearly 70 years, the Domino Sugars sign has lit the Baltimore skyline as an icon to locals, a beacon to travelers, an inspiration to artists and a symbol our refinery is thriving,” the company said in a statement announcing the change.
“Battered by the elements for decades, the badly deteriorated steel letters and border have come to the end of their useful life. However, as we approach 100 years of operation in Baltimore, we are renewing our commitment to the city by ensuring it stays lit for generations to come.”
To make sure the changes last a long time, Domino said, “we are investing in a large-scale, sustainable renovation of the sign, and it is important to us that Baltimore is pleased with the result.
“We will be making structural repairs and installing new letters and a border that include state-of-the-art LED [light emitting diode] lighting that will mimic the look of neon. We are going to great lengths to ensure the sign retains the same appearance, is more sustainable, stays fully lit and is built to last at least another 70 years.”
The 1951 sign will be “retired” on March 1 and the installation of its replacement is expected to take about four months.
Since the Domino refinery in Brooklyn, New York, was demolished several years ago, Baltimore has the largest Domino plant in the country. The sign change follows the disappearance of other neon signs around the city, including the blue neon wave on the south end of the National Aquarium in Baltimore, also replaced by an LED sign.
I am so happy that Domino Sugar is continuing to keep the sign glowing over Baltimore! Born and raised in Baltimore, I remember the sign well! Thank you Domino Sugar!