Color Comes to the Square: Crosswalk Mural Project Begins Monday

A little more color is coming to downtown as a new beautification project gets underway Monday, August 17.

A section of Monroe Street on the square will be closed from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday while an artist begins installing the first of three colorful crosswalk murals planned for the area.

The project features a vibrant turquoise background accented with greenery and pink and white Mountain Laurel flowers. Three coordinating designs are planned, with Crosswalk C scheduled to be the first mural installed.

Barricades will be placed around the work area to provide a safe space for the artist, and motorists will see signs near the intersection of Monroe Street and Bridge Street alerting them to the temporary road closure.

The good news for downtown visitors and businesses is that parking on the square will not be affected by Monday's work.

Rather than completing all three crosswalks at once, each mural will be installed individually over the next several weeks. Weather permitting, the artist expects the entire project to be completed sometime in September.

The decorative crosswalks are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the appearance of the downtown area while adding another unique element for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Drivers traveling through the area Monday should be prepared for the temporary closure and allow a little extra time to navigate around Monroe Street.

When the work is complete, what was once an ordinary trip across the street will have a decidedly more colorful view.