A study by Bloomberg Philanthropies found that street art at intersections not only slowed vehicle speeds but also increased the likelihood that drivers would stop for pedestrians. Using this information, I sat down with my local government officials to talk about how we could use art to enhance public safety in Monroe, Michigan. Collaborating with the Michigan Fitness Foundation, we identified separate “problem sites” for crosswalks with poor visibility.

Completely making over 3 separate intersections with a total of 7 different crossings, I designed each site to be unique and reflective of the area. It was important to me that the community accepted the change that was about to happen. I chose to open the painting of the first crosswalk to a community painting event where anyone could be a part of the painting process. The event was a success, to say the least. The crosswalk was painted by hundreds of locals and praised by even more.

To make sure that the art was following all local and state-level safety regulations, I worked with the company Street Bond to find a product that would be durable, colorful, and street legal. I had to do extensive research on the preparation of the asphalt and worked closely with my sales representative to ensure that the murals would last for years to come.

This collection of murals is by far my favorite type of project to work on because of the impact that it has on everyone who comes in contact with it. The community crosswalk murals are more than just art; they are enhanced public safety and a connection to the community.