Transportation Department crews said assembling the artwork was like putting together a puzzle.
Public art can provoke thought, inspire creativity, and add to the vibrancy of a community. What you might not know is it can also play a role when it comes to pedestrian safety.
Enter the artistic curb extensions recently installed at the intersection of W. Hargett Street and Salisbury Street. This busy downtown intersection has a history of crashes involving pedestrians.
“Our team is very excited about this project,” said Jed Niffenegger, Traffic Engineer. “Not only does the art provide our residents and visitors with a visual benefit, but more importantly, curb extensions can save lives.”
Niffenegger points out that studies show improvements to crosswalk visibility reduce crashes up to 48 percent.
The City of Raleigh’s Transportation Department partnered with Raleigh Arts to find the right design for the pilot project. Well-known North Carolina artist, Jermaine “JP” Powell, was chosen through a competitive selection process.
His artwork was then transferred onto pre-formed thermoplastic panels, which typically have a longer lifespan than concrete or other materials.
Staff is considering a similar artistic approach at another downtown location in the hopes that drivers will slow down, pay attention… and yes, enjoy the art.