Citgo Sign Takes Step Toward Landmark Status

Boston, MA - Kenmore Square's Citgo sign has achieved preliminary landmark status - a first step toward formal landmark designation.

The Boston Landmarks Commission on Tuesday granted it that status, WHDH 7News reports, meaning the sign can't be touched or taken down without the commission's approval.

More than 5,000 have signed a petition asking to protect the sign as a designated landmark. The impetus was Boston University's plan to sell the building on which the sign sits. At least some of site's would-be developers have said they'd take a hands-off approach to the historic sign, while others declined to comment in a recent Boston Globe story on the sign's future.

After a study on the sign's landmark potential, the Landmarks Commission will vote on whether to make the sign an official landmark. If approved, WHDH reports, it will move onto the Mayor and then the City Council.