The Golden Stripe is a unique and symbolic stretch of gold-tinted concrete located on Interstate 90 near Blue Earth, Minnesota. It marks the historic point where the eastbound and westbound paving crews met in September 1978, completing the final link of the longest road in America—Interstate 90, which spans 3,080 miles from Boston to Seattle.
Inspired by the “Golden Spike” that joined the transcontinental railroad in 1869, the Golden Stripe was created to commemorate the completion of this modern-day transcontinental highway. The original golden panel was poured using gold powder imported from Germany, and the event was celebrated with a large ceremony attended by 2,500 people, including Miss America and the Jolly Green Giant, who was hoisted into the air by crane.
Two Minnesota National Guard trucks met nose-to-nose on the stripe, symbolizing the interstate system’s original purpose as a National Defense Highway. The golden concrete endured decades of traffic before the road was repaved in 2006. While the original panel was removed, the golden shoulders were preserved as a tribute to its significance.
In 2023, the Minnesota Department of Transportation reinstated the Golden Stripe during a major reconstruction project. A new gold-colored panel was laid on the westbound lanes, with plans to install a matching panel on the eastbound side in 2024. The site remains accessible from nearby rest areas, where historical markers provide context for visitors.
Today, the Golden Stripe stands as a quirky yet meaningful roadside landmark, celebrating a milestone in American infrastructure and the spirit of cross-country connection.
Found before the hint:
- hhgygy
- Garfield
- Martin de Bock
- Paul Voestermans
- Phil Ower
- Bas van Limpt
- Glenmorren
After the hint :
- Lighthouse