Restored ‘Welcome to Upper Greenwood Lake’ sign reinstalled
West Milford. The “Welcome to Upper Greenwood Lake” sign, restored after years of damage, has been reinstalled atop Warwick Turnpike for residents and visitors to enjoy.
| 09 Jan 2026 | 04:03
Don Smith, Dennis Decina and Susan Bemel stand in front of the sign.
Don Smith helps touch up the sign.
Susan Bemel works on the sign.
The crew from Mr. Fix All installs the sign.
Sue Bemel does touch-ups on the sign after installation.
The iconic “Welcome to Upper Greenwood Lake” sign has been restored and reinstalled atop Warwick Turnpike, returning a familiar landmark to the community after years of weather damage and wear.
The sign, originally installed in 2012, was carved and painted by local artist Susan Bemel in collaboration with Dennis Decina, a member of the Upper Greenwood Lake Property Owners Association board. It replaced an older metal sign that had fallen into disrepair and survived Hurricane Sandy just days after its installation.
Over time, harsh weather, road salt and a fallen tree branch caused significant damage, warping the sign and loosening its attachments. Earlier this year, Decina and fellow board member Don Smith organized its restoration, including the deteriorating message board beneath it.
Bemel, who had retired from her sign-making business, agreed to return for the project, working from the workshop of local contractor Joe Biesiada, owner of Mr. Fix All. Over several weeks, she cleaned, repainted and applied gold leaf, while Decina and Smith assisted as needed.
On Dec. 18, the restored sign was carefully transported back to its original location in two sections and reinstalled with Bemel guiding the alignment and finishing touches.
