Deal reached to keep Citgo sign in Kenmore for 30 years, landmark unlikely

BOSTON — Boston's move for landmark status for the famed Citgo sign in Kenmore Square may come to a halt.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh's Office announced Thursday that a long-term solution has been reached to keep the Citgo sign in Kenmore Square "for years to come" but the mayor does not want landmark status.

Just a few weeks ago, the Boston Landmark Commission voted unanimously to approve the status for the sign following a two-year campaign from local preservationists and Citgo Petroleum Corp. to ensure the 60-foot sign retains its place in Boston's skyline.

The commission issued a report last month recommending landmark status, saying the sign has become a cultural symbol in Boston "far beyond gasoline."

On Thursday, the mayor's office released a joint statement on behalf of Walsh, CITGO, Related Beal and Boston University:

"We are pleased to share that we have reached a long-term resolution that will preserve the Citgo sign and allow for it to remain in place in Kenmore Square for years to come, recognizing the significance that this sign has on our landscape in Boston, while balancing the opportunity for our horizons to continue evolving in future years."

Walsh says he will veto the landmark designation because the agreement will keep the sign where it is for the next 30 years.

Boston 25 News has learned the deal will elevate the sign by a matter of feet on the same building. The slight move will still require final approval by the Boston Planning and Development Agency. This move would not be possible if the sign had been landmarked. Landmark designation would require all changes and alterations to the sign to go before a mayor-appointed board.

Cox Media Group