Q: Why are you replacing the vertical sign?
The visible sheet metal portions of the sign, including the letters and lighting fixtures, have weathered and decayed beyond repair.

Q: Is the sign that’s coming down the original sign?
The original sign was placed in 1928 and said “Seattle.” In March 1930 it was re-skinned to say “Paramount” – so the current sign has been in place for over 79 years.

Q: How long will it take to replace the vertical sign?
Six days, weather permitting
2 days - disassemble
2 days - i-beams to be sanded, primed and painted with industrial grade protective coating
2 days - reinstall

Q: Will the sign look different?
No, the new sign will be an exact replica of the existing sign.

Q: What tools were used to ensure the sign is an exact replica of the original?
Hand rubbings of the existing sign were made on-site. In addition, measurements and detailed information was collected regarding every piece of steel, nut, bolt, sheet metal, screws and paint samples from all surfaces. All of the information was brought back to The Sign Factory shop and a computer design was made to match the data from the site.

Q: Will the new sign be more energy efficient?
The newly replicated sign will be approximately 90% more energy efficient. Currently The Paramount vertical sign has 1,932 incandescent bulbs using 11 watts per bulb, driven by several large mechanical chasers. We have tested many types of bulbs to find the right one and are happy to have found an LED bulb that will use .75 watts per bulb, driven by electrical chasers.

Magnetic transformers will be replaced with Ventex High Power Factor (HPF) electronic transformers to power the neon portions of the sign. These units will save up to 66% of the energy currently being consumed by the neon lights.

Q: Will the new sign be made of recycled materials?
As defined by Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), the aluminum for building restoration must be made of 30% recycled materials; The Paramount sign will exceed this as it is made of 17% post-consumer and 27% post-industrial aluminum materials.

Q: How much money will the new sign cost and who will pay for it?
The vertical sign replacement and marquee restoration totals $616,000. Currently $331,000 has been raised thanks to the support of 4Culture, Washington State’s Building For The Arts and Seattle Foundation. Our campaign “Paramount Sign of the Times – Replication, Restoration and Greening” is to raise an additional $150,000 for the project.

Q: What will happen to the old sign?
The existing sign will be taken down in sections and at this time we are unable to determine how the pieces will react once they are taken down. Once the replacement is finished, the old sign will be examined and if there are salvageable pieces, an inquiry will be sent to appropriate museums and local philanthropists. 

Q: Although you don’t know how the historic sign will react when taken down, how can I be contacted about possible future uses of the sign?
The existing sign is in rough shape and we are unable to determine the future use of the sign. If you are interested in learning more please contact Aaron Semer at 206.467.5510.

Q: If the vertical sign is being replaced, what is the condition of the marquee?
The marquee is in relatively better shape than the vertical sign and will be renovated at a later date. Funds for the Sign of the Times – Replication, Restoration and Greening campaign will go towards the renovation of the marquee as well.

Q: I want to donate, where can I?
More information on how to donate can be found here on our website at www.stgpresents.org/signofthetimes

Q: Will any streets be closed?
Yes, starting October 6th at 6am the eastbound lane of Pine Street and all lanes of 9th Street, between Pike and Pine will be closed until October 9th. Detours will direct local traffic around the closures.

Q: Will STG be open for business?
Yes, STG will remain open for regular business hours during the replacement of the vertical sign.

Q: Will The Paramount Theatre Box Office still be open?
Yes, the box office will remain open during regular business hours Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm.

Q: Will the Convention Center bus tunnel be open?
Yes, there will be no interference with bus routes or the tunnel.