Smithville Charitable Foundation Awards $10,000 Grant to Daviess County EDC for County-Wide Signage Initiative

Request for Proposals Now Open for Design Firms

Washington, IN — The Smithville Charitable Foundation has awarded a $10,000 grant to the Daviess County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC) to kick off the first phase of the Daviess County Gateway & Wayfinding Project. In partnership with the Daviess County Visitors Bureau, DCEDC will launch the Washington Gateway Sign design phase, renewing the city’s most visible entry point.

An image of the current Washington gateway sign.

The Washington sign represents the first step in a larger county-wide signage and wayfinding initiative designed to improve navigation, safety, and community identity throughout Daviess County. This pilot project will help establish consistent design standards and serve as a model for future gateway and directional signage across the county. By creating a cohesive and professional signage system, the initiative aims to strengthen Daviess County’s sense of place, enhance tourism experiences, and support ongoing economic development.

The funding will support design and engineering services to create a durable, visually appealing gateway sign that reflects the character of Washington, leaving a positive first impression for visitors. The Daviess County Visitors Bureau will lead the project coordination and evaluation through its tourism and data-analysis initiatives.

To move forward, DCEDC is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to qualified design firms to provide design services to develop a monument/entry sign for the City of Washington, Indiana. Interested firms can download the RFP from www.VisitDaviessCounty.com with proposals due by November 17, 2025.

“We’re grateful to the Smithville Charitable Foundation for investing in Daviess County’s identity and future,” said Amber Warden, Executive Director of the Daviess County Visitors Bureau. “This collaboration ensures we build something both beautiful and strategic—a gateway that welcomes visitors and residents alike.”

Washington Mayor, David Rhoads shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Getting this grant for the entry sign design will be a great addition to the gateway to the City of Washington. This project will give visitors and residents a welcoming first impression that reflects the progress and pride of our community.”

For more information or to request the RFP, visit

www.VisitDaviessCounty.com or contact [email protected].

Washington Sign RFP.pdf

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5 Reasons to Visit Daviess County, Indiana This Fall

Fall in southern Indiana is a season filled with crisp air, golden leaves, and small-town charm. If you’re looking for the perfect getaway this autumn, Daviess County offers a mix of outdoor beauty, local flavors, and unique experiences that make it worth the trip. Here are five reasons to add Daviess County to your fall travel list.

1. Scenic Drives & Fall Colors

Daviess County comes alive in autumn with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Take a drive through the countryside and enjoy the rolling hills, family farms, and peaceful backroads lined with changing leaves. It’s the perfect backdrop for a relaxing weekend escape.

2. Local Harvest & Farmers Markets

Fall means fresh-picked produce and seasonal treats. Visit local farms, orchards, and markets for pumpkins, apples, cider, and homemade baked goods. You’ll get a true taste of Indiana’s agricultural heartland.

Pictured: Discover Downtown Washington Farmer's Market, 2 Blondes & Some Bread

3. Amish Country Charm

Daviess County is home to one of the largest Amish communities in Indiana. Fall is an especially picturesque time to experience Amish shops, bakeries, handcrafted goods, and horse-drawn buggies on country roads. It’s like stepping into a slower, more peaceful way of life.

Pictured: Odon Locker Inc

4. Outdoor Adventures

Cooler weather makes fall the perfect season to get outside. Explore the trails at Glendale Fish & Wildlife Area, enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting, or try your hand at fall fishing. Nature lovers will find plenty of ways to enjoy the season.

5. Festivals & Local Events

From harvest festivals to craft shows and community gatherings, fall in Daviess County is full of ways to connect with local culture. These events are great for families, friends, or anyone who loves small-town celebrations with big heart.

Pictured: White River Valley Antique Show

Plan Your Fall Getaway

Whether you’re coming for the colors, the food, or the charm of Amish country, Daviess County, Indiana, is the perfect place to experience autumn. Pack a sweater, bring your appetite, and get ready for a fall adventure you won’t forget.

Start planning your trip today at VisitDaviessCounty.com.

Introducing the 2025 Best of Daviess County Awards

Daviess County is full of incredible people, places, and experiences—and now it’s time to celebrate them in a big way! We are thrilled to announce the launch of the 2025 Best of Daviess County Awards, a People’s Choice recognition program that puts the spotlight on what makes our community so special.

What Are the Best of Daviess County Awards?

The Best of Daviess County Awards are designed to honor the outstanding businesses, events, attractions, and individuals that bring life, culture, and tourism to our community. From your favorite restaurants to unforgettable festivals, from inspiring artists to the friendliest local shops, these awards showcase the very best our county has to offer.

And the best part? YOU get to decide the winners.

How It Works

1. Vote: Community members can submit their votes in each award category.

2. Celebrate: Winners will be revealed in November.

Award Categories

Some of the categories you’ll see this year include:

• Best Event or Festival

• Best Dining Experience

• Destination Arts Award

• Excellence in Hospitality

• Best Outdoor or Natural Attraction

• Best Cultural / Heritage Site

• Best New Attraction or Project

Why People’s Choice?

We believe the true heartbeat of Daviess County lies in the people who live here and the visitors who fall in love with our community. By making this a People’s Choice award, everyone has the opportunity to lift up the places, creators, and experiences that matter most.

Get Involved

Do you have a favorite restaurant, shop, festival, or artist you think deserves recognition? This is your chance to show your support!

👉 Nominations are now open! Submit your picks by October 10, 2025 at 2025 Best of Daviess Awards | Daviess County Visit. Together, let’s honor the people and places that make Daviess County a vibrant community to live in and visit.