(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today unveiled new interstate highway “Welcome to Connecticut” signs that have been erected at seven key entry points near the state’s border, including on I-95 and I-84 entering from New York; on I-91, I-84, and I-395 entering from Massachusetts; and on I-95 and U.S. Route 6 entering from Rhode Island. The signs each showcase a unique aspect of Connecticut’s identity and the opportunities available in the Nutmeg State.
“These new signs are not just markers on our highways, they are a reflection of what makes Connecticut special,” Governor Lamont said. “We want everyone entering our state to immediately feel proud of what we do well here, whether it’s making the nation’s best pizza, world class meals, national championships, or the most complex machines in the world. Each sign is an invitation to experience all that we have to offer as one of the best states to live, work, and play.”
SIGN A: “Welcome to Connecticut, Home of the Pizza Capital of the United States” (Two locations: I-95 and I-84 entering Connecticut from New York)
Governor Ned Lamont declared Connecticut the Pizza Capital of the US in February 2024 with a gubernatorial proclamation and Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro read it into the Congressional Record in May 2024.
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SIGN B: “Welcome to Connecticut, Home of the Basketball Capital of the World” (Three locations: I-91, I-84, and I-395 entering Connecticut from Massachusetts)
Following the back-to-back national titles won by UConn Men’s Basketball in 2023 and 2024, the total of combined national championships won by the university’s men’s and women’s basketball teams grew to 17, six more than any other university in the nation.
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SIGN C: “Welcome to Connecticut, Home of the Submarine Capital of the World” (One location: I-95 entering Connecticut from Rhode Island)
The submarine was invented in Connecticut by David Bushnell in 1775, laying the groundwork for modern day submarines. General Dynamics Electric Boat of Groton has been the primary submarine maker for the U.S. Navy since the early 20th Century. The U.S. Navy’s primary submarine base is in New London.
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SIGN D: “Welcome to Connecticut, Stop for a bite in the Foodie Capital of New England” (One location: U.S. Route 6 entering Connecticut from Rhode Island)
Connecticut chef’s and restaurants have gained increased national recognition, capped by Chef David Standridge capturing the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast in 2024. Governor Lamont proclaimed Connecticut the “Foodie Capital of New England” in February 2024.
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These seven new interstate highway signs were designed and installed following all federal regulations and guidelines for interstate signage, ensuring both safety and visibility. The project was overseen by the Connecticut Department of Transportation with input from the Connecticut Office of Tourism to ensure the messaging aligns with Connecticut’s broader marketing and communications efforts.
“These new signs reflect our state’s pride, our commitment to excellence, and our dedication to making a great first impression,” Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. “Each sign is crafted to enhance travel for residents and visitors, embodying the best of what we do in Connecticut. Thank you to Governor Lamont and the Connecticut Office of Tourism for highlighting Connecticut pride with this new branding campaign.”
“At its core, Connecticut’s rebranding is about showing the world what we do and why we do it,” Anthony Anthony, Connecticut’s chief marketing officer, said. “The makers and creators here are the engine behind our efforts. These new signs are a visible reminder of their work and that Connecticut is a place where anyone can make their life, family, career, business, and fun. We’re proud to welcome everyone who enters our state with these powerful messages.”
The State of Connecticut rebranded in 2023 followed by the launch of its “Make It Here” campaign designed to create a firm Connecticut identity, increase state pride, and strengthen perceptions of the Nutmeg State. The four signs feature the “C+T” state logo that is now seen across state government, including on CTVisit.com, the state’s official tourism website.
In 2023, Connecticut experienced a record year for the travel industry with nearly 68 million visitors and $18.5 billion economic impact, according to Tourism Economics.
For more information on Connecticut’s attractions and offerings, visit CTVisit.com. For more information on the makers and creators that drive progress in Connecticut, visit CTMakeItHere.com.
