Volunteers needed for the city’s largest asphalt art installation at Canyon, Magnolia and Sherwood
The City of Fort Collins is set to transform the intersection of Canyon Avenue, W. Magnolia Street and S. Sherwood Street near The Lincoln Center into the city’s largest asphalt art installation to date, enhancing street safety while beautifying the space.
Funded in part by a Bloomberg Philanthropies Asphalt Art Initiative grant, this project will feature artwork by local artist Jess Bean, including radiant magnolia blossoms, black-tipped feathers and ribbons of blue water, which symbolize Fort Collins’ rich natural and cultural heritage. Bean’s design represents both the creative and practical intersection of our city’s past, present and future, telling the story of our environment and our community.
“This project is a perfect blend of art, safety and community involvement,” City of Fort Collins Active Modes Specialist Anna Kelso says. “We’re excited to see how this creative approach can make our streets safer and more beautiful for everyone.”
The installation, scheduled for Aug. 14-18, 2024, will combine art with innovative infrastructure to improve street safety. By narrowing the intersection with asphalt art, traffic striping and flexible plastic posts, the project aims to:
- Slow traffic speeds
- Shorten pedestrian crossing distances
- Reduce conflicts between vehicles and vulnerable road users
Community members ages 15 and older are invited to participate in the painting process alongside Bean. Volunteer shifts are available in the morning and afternoon throughout the installation period.
“We’re calling on our community to help bring this vision to life,” Kelso says. “This is a unique opportunity for residents to leave their mark on the city and be part of a project that will benefit Fort Collins for years to come.”
Volunteers will be provided with all necessary supplies and guidance. Volunteer shifts are available Wednesday through Sunday (Aug. 14-18) in the morning and afternoon.
For further information and volunteer sign-up, please visit fcgov.com/asphaltart.
