Biddeford plans to bring new life to an old, towering sign at the Five Points intersection, about half a mile south of downtown.

The CITGO (and more recently, Mobil) landmark sign has stood vacant for years. Now, the Biddeford Downtown Development Commission is looking for a local artist to redesign it.

“It’s been empty and derelict for several years now,” Economic Development Coordinator Brad Favreau said at a committee meeting.

According to a statement from the city, the project aims to turn the sign into an engaging, vibrant visual statement that reflects Biddeford’s rich industrial and cultural heritage, its creative energy, and its commitment to public art.

“It’ll be a new gateway sign to downtown,” Favreau said.

According to officials, the design should foster a sense of place, welcome visitors, and celebrate the “evolving identity” of Biddeford as a hub for creativity and cultural exchange.

Mayor Martin Grohman said he’s committed to improving the Five Points area. The sign redesign is the first step in doing so.

“Our efforts downtown along Main Street are really paying off and I’ve asked our volunteer Downtown Development Commission to extend their efforts out to Five Points,” Grohman told Biddeford-Saco Now.

The design process also engages the community in public art, Grohman said, which has been a focus in the city.

On March 4, the City Council approved a public art ordinance that will allow the Biddeford Public Art Commission to create a Public Art Master Plan, approve public art proposals, and oversee the maintenance and care of public art.

In February, Art of Biddeford formed, bringing local art back to the city after another Biddeford arts nonprofit dissolved.

“It’s a hard time, and public art can provide those moments of beauty that brighten your day,” Grohman said. “It’s also a proven tool for public development. It signals that a place is cared for and worth investing in.”

Early this year, the city asked for quotes from local sign fabricators. One company, Favreau said, quoted the city anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000 for an update.

Currently, the city does not have funding for the project. Once a design is selected, the city will begin fundraising to bring the idea to life, Grohman said.

The open call to local artists is ongoing.

“This project has really captured the public imagination and we already have several strong submittals,” Grohman said.