Driven by community engagement, the Salem Turnpike street mural and improvements slows traffic and makes the street a safer and more colorful street to walk and drive in Northwest Roanoke. The design was developed by lead artist Simone Paterson, who worked with young people through her Dreamin Big Art Program at the Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority’s EnVision Center.
Project Partners
Carilion Clinic – Community Health and Outreach
City of Roanoke Transportation
EnVision Center – Roanoke Redevelopment and Housing Authority
Equitable Cities
Roanoke Arts Commission
Roanoke City & Alleghany Health Districts
Ride Solutions – Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission
Virginia Walkability Action Institute
Press
WFXR, May 11, 2024
Roanoke Times (PDF), May 12, 2024
Implementation
Three dozen volunteers pitched in to help throughout the project and on paint day — May 11, 2024. Check out these images by Artist in Residence Antonio Stovall.
Preparation
Watch lead artist Simone Paterson describe the project below.
View the presentation PDF.
