For more than 60 years, Kenmore Square’s CITGO Sign has been a defining part of the Boston skyline. Now, as part of the redevelopment of 660 Beacon Street, the sign will be repositioned to restore its original sight lines and preserve the iconic sign in Kenmore Square for the next generation.
The sign will be positioned 30 feet higher and 120 feet to the east onto a newly installed super-structure that meets today’s building codes and will safely support the CITGO sign into the future.
As part of this work, CITGO has contracted with Boston-based construction management firm, Suffolk, to carefully manage and complete the repositioning of Boston’s sign.
With site preparation finalized, including project signage and safety measures, the CITGO Sign Relocation project began on May 27, 2026, and is expected to be completed in December 2026.
In close coordination with impacted abutters, the Construction Management Plan was reviewed with subcontractors and approved by the City of Boston, with a focus on keeping neighbors informed and minimizing disruption where possible.
The seven-month schedule reflects the time needed to procure and fabricate major components, especially the new sign and structural steel, and to safely complete the demolition, erection, and installation in sequence.
As sign removal and installation move forward, neighbors can expect typical urban construction noise at times throughout the project. In the laydown area in the parking lot between Baystate Road and Beacon Street, the height of surrounding buildings may cause sound to carry more than usual.
Expected noise may include intermittent cutting, grinding, demolition, and diesel-powered equipment used for crane operations, hoisting, and material handling. The loudest periods are expected during demolition of the existing structure (May–June 2026) and erection of the new sign (July–November 2026). Work is expected primarily on Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 5 PM, and Saturdays from 8 AM to 4 PM. We appreciate the neighborhood’s patience as this work is completed.
Once crews are on site and safety measures are in place, the existing CITGO letters and logs will be removed. The current sign super structure and panels will then be dismantled, followed by roof repairs and electrical work through early July 2026. The photo below shows the expected parking lot impact.
Once crews are on site and safety measures are in place, the existing CITGO letters and logs will be removed. The current sign super structure and panels will then be dismantled, followed by roof repairs and electrical work through early July 2026. The photo below shows the expected parking lot impact.
Stay informed with official announcements and key project milestones.
Construction Begins on Repositioning of CITGO Sign in Kenmore Square
Construction kicks off today for the repositioning of Boston’s iconic CITGO Sign in Kenmore Square, marking the final phase of the Kenmore Square Redevelopment at 660 Beacon Street.
May 29, 2026
Kenmore Square’s CITGO Sign Ready for Repositioning – Preserving a Boston Icon for the Next Generation and Beyond
The final phase of the Kenmore Square Redevelopment at 660 Beacon Street, the planned repositioning and restoration of the iconic CITGO Sign.
Oct 15, 2025
Originally installed in 1940 as the Cities Service Sign and reinstalled in 1965 as part of the introduction of the CITGO marketing brand, the CITGO Sign has become one of the most recognizable symbols of the City of Boston.
For generations of runners, the CITGO Sign has been a beacon marking the final mile of the annual Boston Marathon presented by Bank of America.
Explore the moments that shaped one of Boston’s most recognizable landmarks.
The original sign was installed on top of a building at 660 Beacon Street to advertise Cities Service Company, which ultimately introduced the CITGO brand.
A new marketing brand was born, and the sign was redesigned to the now familiar red and orange trimark logo.
The sign’s location near Fenway Park made it a familiar backdrop for Red Sox fans watching games in person and on television.
The sign, originally constructed with neon tubing, was converted to LED lighting for improved durability, efficiency, and maintenance.
Over time, the sign became deeply embedded in Boston’s identity and campaigns emerged to protect the sign amid redevelopment concerns.
Organizations supporting the preservation of Kenmore Square’s CITGO Sign:
