Glenview turns on Rotating Rainbow Color Lights behind lettering on downtown signs

Downtown Glenview got an unexpected splash of color Thursday evening as a newly installed "Downtown Glenview" monument sign began mysteriously cycling through a rotating rainbow of LED lights—catching residents and passersby off guard.

None of the other entering downtown or entering the village signs had the lights turned on and the village did not announce a test.

The first sign, located on Harlem Road, flickered to life at approximately 6 p.m., its lettering quickly transitioning through a vivid spectrum of colors. The signs, installed roughly two months ago as part of a $395,200 branding and wayfinding project.

The broader project, which was approved by the Village Board in October 2024, includes four white-on-black monument signs, 15 to 20 directional signs guiding visitors to local amenities, and historical updates to iconic local locations.

The contract was awarded to Forge Signworks, LLC of Farmingdale, New Jersey, for an amount not to exceed $395,200 .

The timing of the lighting activation—and whether it signals a permanent change or a temporary test—remains unclear. The rainbow display comes just one day before scheduled road closures on Glenview Road between Harlem Avenue and Pine Street for paving work .