Kansas City, MO
Enhancing Vision Zero safety improvements with art
The Project
In Kansas City, the intersection of 12th street and Benton Boulevard was identified as having one of the highest rates of traffic-related crashes and injuries, and an ideal spot for asphalt art to be installed. This project sought to intertwine asphalt art with hardscape improvements through a community-driven process, in order to transform this dangerous intersection. The improvements stem from the Vision Zero KC initiative, which launched in May 2021 and aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and injuries in the city by 2030. Local urban design firm Street Smarts Design + Build installed various high-impact interventions at the intersection, including bump-outs, curb extensions, pedestrian refuge islands, and improved signage. Street Smarts Design + Build led the process of installing artwork designed by 6 local artists selected through an open call process. The combination of the hardscape improvements and murals not only created a vibrant space and improved visibility in the area, but also increased community support and participation in improving traffic safety overall, with students and locals working together to create the art. Since the installation, residents have remarked that the four-way stop and asphalt art are making the area feel safer, with fewer conflicts between drivers and pedestrians. Ultimately, this project resulted in a safer intersection for all modes of travel, and a beautiful space reflecting community pride in Kansas City.
“The first thing you notice here is it’s much calmer. It’s much quieter. Traffic is moving through the intersection just fine but at a much slower pace”
DuRon Netsell, Founder, Street Smarts Design + Build
Use the slider to see the transformation
Press
Art initiative making cities across America safer (NBC Nightly News, September 16, 2022)
An Artistic Day at 12th & Benton (Northeast News, August 11, 2022)
Artwork in Northeast Kansas City aims to improve pedestrian safety (KSHB, August 11, 2022)
Artists needed for Bloomberg Asphalt Art project, making Historic Northeast intersection safer (KCTV, July 1, 2022)
For inspiration and tips for the creation of art on roadways and public places, download the Bloomberg Associates Asphalt Art Guide which features successful plaza and roadway art activations around the world, as well as key steps for developing such projects.
