The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet has been getting some good-natured kidding about an odd-looking sign along US 60 eastbound near the KY 54/KY 603 Exit 18 Interchange at Owensboro.
The “hOsPitaL” sign has an unusual collection of letter sizes and fonts. It has a large “O”, “P”, and “L”, but a small “H” at the beginning.
When the sign contractor ordered signs for the US 60 Extension Project that opened in mid-September, a couple of signs along the 6-mile section had to be put on back order. As a temporary fix, the sign contractor came up with some leftover materials around their shop to alert eastbound motorists to use the KY 603/Pleasant Valley Road Exit 19 Interchange to reach the Owensboro hospital. The resulting creation with a recycled blue signboard and a mix of letters has generated some questions and comments.
Kentucky Transportation Cabinet District 2 Spokesman Keith Todd says the supplier has ordered materials to construct a new sign that meets national standards. In the meantime, the makeshift sign will provide adequate directions to travelers that they should use Exit 19 to reach the Owensboro Hospital.
Todd says the sign should provide some smiles until a new sign is constructed and delivered. The sub-contractor has not set a delivery date for the new sign.
