Providence, RI
Reclaiming asphalt for a community plaza
The Project
The City of Providence’s Art, Culture + Tourism (ACT) Department, Rhode Island Latino Arts, the Partnership for Providence Parks, and Providence Streets supported the installation of brand-new ground mural by local artist Rene Gómez at the intersection of Daboll and Public Streets. Reclaimed from a wide swath of underutilized asphalt, the new artful plaza will not only help slow traffic at the dangerous intersection, but serve as a pop-up event location where people can gather to experience performances and happenings, contributing to culturally relevant placemaking in South Providence. The artwork also accompanies the City’s recent completion of safety infrastructure upgrades to Broad Street, part of the City’s Great Streets Plan, which make the area safer and more accessible for people walking, biking, riding the bus, and driving. Together, the ground mural and street safety improvements demonstrate a holistic approach to public infrastructure by promoting safer, more vibrant, and more accessible public spaces in Providence.
“Any time we can reclaim some asphalt for public art, green infrastructure, or friendly pedestrian space, it’s a huge win for our neighborhoods and our environment. I hope to see more dangerous intersections converted to people-centered plazas throughout the City of Providence.”
Liza Burkin, People For Bikes
Press
A new mural brings beauty and safety to the Broad Street cultural corridor (NPR, August 25, 2022)
Vibrant art mural in Providence painted by local artist (ABC 6, August 15, 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.
