Rocky Marciano has scored another victory! The 22-foot Rocky Marciano statue, paying tribute to the Brockton-born undefeated heavyweight champion of the world, is now featured on the Attractions Sign Exit 17A on AMVETS Memorial Highway Route 24.
The Rocky Marciano Statue was unveiled in September of 2012 in Brockton, drawing thousands of people and garnering international media attention due to its record breaking size and Rocky’s inspirational story. Following the overwhelming
reception, the Metro South Chamber of Commerce and the Rocky Marciano Statue Committee urged the state to promote the attraction on the Route 24 highway signs. The state district highway director initially denied the request, stating that the statue lacked “regional significance”.
With the backing and support of State Representatives Claire Cronin, Michael Brady and Christine Canavan, Senator Tom Kennedy, Mayor Linda Balzotti and the Brockton City Council, state transportation officials have reached a compromise to promote Rocky Marciano Stadium, which includes an image of the statue.
“We’re very happy we’ve come to a compromise and come as close as we can to meeting that initial request that Mayor Linda Balzotti and folk in the city had initially requested,” said Michael Verseckes, spokesman for the Massachusetts
Department of Transportation.
The state transportation department will also pay for any signs needed for Belmont Street to guide visitors to Marciano Stadium located on the campus of Brockton High School off of Forest Avenue.