PHOTOS: New Connecticut welcome signs on interstates

NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — New “Welcome to Connecticut” signs have been installed along the state’s borders.

The four signs can be seen on Interstate 95 and Interstate 84 (entering Connecticut from New York), Interstate 91, Interstate 84 and Interstate 395 (entering Connecticut from Massachusetts) and Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 6 (entering Connecticut Rhode Island).

State officials said the signs highlight a unique aspect of Connecticut’s identity and opportunities.

“Welcome to Connecticut, Home of the Pizza Capital of the United States”

Two locations: I-95 and I-84 entering Connecticut from New York

Lamont declared New Haven the Pizza Capital of the U.S. in February 2024 with a gubernatorial proclamation, which Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro read into the Congressional Record in May 2024.

“Welcome to Connecticut, Home of the Basketball Capital of the World”

Three locations: I-91, I-84 and I-395 entering Connecticut from Massachusetts

UConn men’s basketball won back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024, bringing the total of combined national championships won by the men’s and women’s basketball teams to 17 — 6 more than any other university in the nation.

“ Welcome to Connecticut, Home of the Submarine Capital of the World”

One location: I-95 entering Connecticut from Rhode Island

The submarine was invented in Connecticut by David Bushnell in 1775, laying the groundwork for modern-day submarines. General Dynamics Electric Boat of Groton has been the primary submarine maker for the U.S. Navy since the early 20th century, and the U.S. Navy’s primary submarine base is in New London.

“ Welcome to Connecticut, Stop for a bite in the Foodie Capital of New England “

One location: U.S. Route 6 entering Connecticut from Rhode Island

Chefs and restaurants in Connecticut have garnered national recognition, including Chef David Standridge, capturing the James Beard Award for Best Chef: Northeast in 2024 . The governor also proclaimed Connecticut the “Foodie Capital of New England” in February 2024.

“These new signs are not just markers on our highways, they are a reflection of what makes Connecticut special,” Gov. Ned Lamont said. “We want everyone entering our state to immediately feel proud of what we do well here, whether it’s making the nation’s best pizza, world-class meals, national championships, or the most complex machines in the world. Each sign is an invitation to experience all that we have to offer as one of the best states to live, work, and play.”

State officials said the new signs were designed and installed following all federal regulations and guidelines for interstate signage, ensuring safety and visibility.

According to Tourism Economics, 2023 was a record year for the travel industry in Connecticut, with nearly 68 million visitors and a $18.5 billion economic impact.

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