Florida Keys

Welcome to Key West Sign Returned After Being Stolen Following Hurricane Irma

Distributions centers were set up in Key West Monday to get much needed water and food to residents who were victims of Hurricane Irma.

What to Know

  • Unveiled Tuesday, the sign was stolen last fall after Hurricane Irma hit the Florida Keys.
  • Featuring the image of a Key West sunset over water, the sign also bears a fluted pink-lined conch shell, a symbol of the Florida Keys.

All drivers entering Key West are again being greeted by a large painted sign welcoming them to "Paradise USA."

Unveiled Tuesday, the sign was stolen last fall after Hurricane Irma hit the Florida Keys.

A Key West Police Department investigation led to the placard being recovered in Fort Myers Beach. No charges were pressed.

Key West's three Rotary clubs helped underwrite its restoration by a local sign company.

Featuring the image of a Key West sunset over water, the sign also bears a fluted pink-lined conch shell, a symbol of the Florida Keys, and the message, "Welcome to Key West, Paradise USA."

The original sign, valued at $8,000, was a gift to the city more than a decade ago from the Rotary Club of Key West.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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