CINCINNATI –The City of Cincinnati just launched a Paint the Streets program which aims to calm traffic on residential streets through the use of colorful works of art.

Through the program, recognized community councils can apply to the Department of Transportation and Engineering (DOTE) for permission to paint large murals in the street at either intersections or mid-block locations. The murals promote traffic calming by contributing to a sense of place.

The program is one of the City’s ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian safety as part of the Vision Zero Cincinnati initiative.

“We’re excited to add this new tool to our traffic calming toolbox, particularly since its low-cost nature will make the program accessible to every neighborhood in our city,” said Mel McVay, Vision Zero program manager.

The first Paint the Streets mural was painted by community members Sunday, Oct. 27 in the center of the Dreman and Borden intersection in South Cumminsville. The location was selected by the neighborhood because of the adjacent bus stop and large number of children crossing the street on a regular basis. It was entirely funded through private dollars donated to the South Cumminsville Community Council.

Community Councils interested in participating in the program should contact Melissa McVay at melissa.mcvay@cincinnati-oh.gov to request an application packet.

You can find additional information about Vision Zero Cincinnati at Cincinnati-oh.gov/visionzero