Criticized for its Signage

The City of Bismarck is being criticized for its "bland" signage welcoming tourists to the Capital City on South University. This beacon of geniality is located near the Bismarck Airport. This condemning review was posted on a social media forum known as the Bismarck Community Buzz on Facebook.

Colorful Comments

The author of the post shames the Mayor and the City Commission, saying we deserve better. The post goes on to say, "We the people of Bismarck deserve better." "Just look at Mandan across the river, it's beautiful."

(SEE ALSO: The 10 Snobbiest/Rudest Cities in North Dakota)

The post has drawn a wide array of comments on both sides of the fence. One that stood out to me was that the sign goes with how "ugly" our Capitol building is. Another person went on to say this sign is the perfect presentation for a "poophole" city. Others compared the sign to how Mandan and Minot both have better welcoming signs for their cities. Another comment went on to say that the blandness of the sign matches the whole state. One other person ripped on not only the sign, but how $hitty our city is in general, from never fixing anything, to lack of concerts (meanwhile we actually have 4 country concerts scheduled this fall) and even how bad our hospitals are when it comes to surgeries.

There were several level-headed comments as well, saying they liked the rustic or simplistic look of the sign. Another comment said they are fine with saving tax dollars for something other than aesthetics. Others pointed out that if you don't like the city of Bismarck, you are allowed to move.

Bottom Line

I have driven by this sign twice a day for the last seven years, and I can't say I once thought anything negative about it. I too kind of like the rustic look of it. If you really have a problem with it, I would suggest you take it up with city council or, better yet, pony up some of your own cash. In case you haven't noticed, life is pretty expensive these days. Just take a stroll down any grocery aisle or notice how expensive it is to fill up your tank. I think the sign will do just fine for now. What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

11 Town Names That Sound Out Of Place In North Dakota

LOOK: States With the Most New Small Businesses Per Capita

To find the top 20 states with the most new small businesses per capita, Simply Business analyzed the Census Bureau’s Business Formation Statistics from August 2020 to July 2021.

Gallery Credit: Eliza Siegel

More From US 103-3