Junctions with murals had a halving effect on pedestrian accidents. More colourful artworks are now being planned for other intersections.
Street art is bringing more than just a feelgood boost to drab city centre junctions – it is saving lives, too.
In Kansas City, US, a “daunting and dangerous” intersection is one of many that have been transformed with murals painted directly onto tarmac.
Average speeds at the junction were slashed by almost half and the percentage of pedestrians who reported feeling “very safe” at the intersection jumped from 23 per cent to 63 per cent.
A study of accident statistics from 22 asphalt art sites revealed that pedestrian and other vulnerable road users were less likely to be involved in crashes than was the case for accidents involving them. However, injuries were more common.
Bloomberg Philanthropies was responsible for the research. Asphalt Art Initiative, which funds art projects to transform roads, pedestrian spaces, public infrastructure.
Janette Sadik-Khan, principal for transportation at Bloomberg, said: “This kind of information gives mayors, community members and national policy makers the evidence needed to show that not only will these projects do no harm, but they actually prevent harm from happening in the first place.”
A growing number of cities are adopting asphalt art, buoyed by the success stories of pilot projects. Image: Adam Vogler
Bloomberg’s scheme has backed over 40 projects in the US and three in Europe with a further round of European grantees set to be announced next year.
Gabriella Marcella, a Scottish artist from Glasgow, created vibrant murals to bring life to Anderson station’s entrance.
Meanwhile in London, British- Nigerian designer Yinka Ilori was let loose on pedestrian crossings on Tottenham Court Road for the capital’s Design Festival, reimagining them with playful designs in dazzling colours.
Main image: James Brosher
Help us continue breaking the bad news bias
Positive News is helping more people than ever to get a balanced view of the world – one that supports their wellbeing and empowers them to make a difference towards a better future. And as our audience and impact grows, we’re showing the rest of the media that good news matters.
But the UK’s cost of living crisis is affecting our income, with fewer people able to commit to a magazine subscription – which has traditionally been our main source of funding. Plus, paper and printing prices continue to rise.
We don’t want to put a paywall on our website, because we believe everyone should have the chance to benefit from good news. But we won’t be able to continue funding our online reporting without your help.
If you value what Positive News does and have the means to make a regular contribution, or a one-off donation, please consider becoming a Positive news supporter. We need 1,000 readers to contribute just £3 per month to get us through this challenging time.
Remember, we are a non-profit organization and all funds support our journalism.
SUPPORT POSITIVE NEWS TODAY
