Concept art for the monument. Image via City of Porterville

The Porterville City Council approved plans for a new landmark monument at Veterans Park, the city announced Thursday. 

The new monument is a 16-foot granite replica of the Washington Monument to celebrate Porterville’s 100th anniversary as a charter city and the United States’ 250th birthday. 

The structure will sit on an illuminated pentagon-shaped foundation, which represents strength, unity and service, according to the news release. 

It will feature four bronze plaques that highlight key moments throughout American history, plus a separate plaque from Daughters of the American Revolution. 

“This monument reflects the values that George Washington stood for, courage, humility, service, and civility,” said Ed McKervey, vice mayor of Porterville. “The monument serves as both a tribute to our history and a reminder of the principles that hold us together. I am incredibly proud of our community for supporting a project that honors not only our past, but the example we should strive to follow moving forward.”

The Porterville Historical Museum is partnering on fundraising coordination and outreach. The monument will be a key part of 2026 events and serve as a centerpiece for residents and visitors.

“This is an opportunity for our community to come together and leave a lasting legacy,” McKervey said. “Every contribution helps ensure this monument stands as something we can all point to with pride for generations to come.”