Garfield Ridge – The Rainbow Motel, a 72‑year‑old landmark at 7050 W. Archer Ave., is being renovated, but the fate of its towering neon sign is still up in the air. The sign, a 40‑foot high, rainbow‑colored beacon that has greeted drivers for decades, could be removed unless preservationists intervene.

Community Concern Grows

Visitors have reported that motel staff mentioned the signs would be “redone” soon, but no details were given. Instagram creator Margaret Bienert, who runs the account A Pretty Cool Hotel Tour, said she has not been told whether one or both signs will be changed.

Bienert reached out to the Chicago Sign Museum after learning the signs might be altered. The museum, led by director Kelsey McClellan, is now attempting to contact the motel owners to discuss preservation options.

Museum’s Offer to Help

“We started trying to get as much information as we can,” McClellan said. “If they need it to be de‑installed, we can do that.” The museum works with a network of sign shops and could remove, restore, and store the sign if the motel decides to replace it.

Ideally, the museum hopes the sign can remain in place, restored for public enjoyment. If the motel owner insists on removal, the sign would be placed in the museum’s storage alongside other historic Chicago signs.

Historical Significance

The neon sign, with its orange, blue, yellow and green arc, has long been a visual landmark along Archer Avenue, a historic route that predates the interstate system. McClellan noted that such signs were designed to catch the eye of passing motorists and are part of the city’s mid‑century heritage.

Chicago’s vintage sign code offers limited protection, but a 2023 ordinance strengthened safeguards for designated vintage signs, allowing new owners to keep them even if permits have expired. Preservationists, however, say financial incentives for owners are lacking.

Public Response

Local residents have expressed fond memories of the sign, with one Instagram commenter writing, “Nooooo the staple of my childhood! Let us know how else we can help.” The museum’s efforts highlight a broader challenge of preserving Chicago’s disappearing neon heritage as businesses change hands.

McClellan added that the museum plans to eventually display all its collected signs at a permanent public location, and they would welcome community support to keep the Rainbow Motel sign visible.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.