Wind-Damaged "Gateway to Apalachin" Sign Replaced

A service organization in Tioga County has taken steps to replace a roadside sign that alerted motorists that they were in the small community called "Apalachin."

An old wood sign that had been in place on the south side of Route 434 for several decades broke apart due to strong winds in July of last year.

The original "Apalachin, NY" sign off Route 434 in Tioga County. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Paul Huonker, who chairs the Apalachin Lions Club civic improvement committee, said a new sign was installed a few weeks ago.

Huonker said the sign is located on a state Department of Transportation extension of Route 434 where West Main Street begins.

Broken pieces of the "Apalachin" sign after it was damaged by wind in July 2021. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

Club members like to refer to the site as "Lions Park." Huonker said members have voluntarily maintained the site for many years. He said they cut the grass as well as remove tree limbs, weeds and brush around the roadway.

The new sign was created and installed by Anything Artistic in Owego.

In an email, Huonker said "our club takes great pride in reestablishing a visible, unofficial gateway to our beloved Apalachin."

The new Apalachin sign as it appeared on December 12, 2022. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

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