The City of Reno has launched an asphalt mural pilot project aimed at improving pedestrian safety near schools. The intersection of Yori Avenue and Roberts Street, near Libby Booth Elementary School, now features a mural painted directly on the asphalt. The project includes bulb-outs designed to shorten crossing distances and increase visibility for pedestrians. An event to officially unveil the mural is scheduled for tomorrow at 12:30 p.m., with Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve, Ward 3 Councilmember Miguel Martinez, artist Nathaniel Benjamin, and Libby Booth Elementary Principal Mary Culpepper expected to attend, according to a City of Reno press release.
Advocating for the protective yet inventive initiative, Mayor Schieve celebrated the meld of artistic and civic minds, "I am so proud of our incredible Public Works and Arts & Culture teams for coming together to create something truly special for Reno," she lauded in a statement shared by the City of Reno "this project is a creative solution that helps keep our residents, especially our kids, safe as they travel on our roads and sidewalks."
Muralist Nathaniel Benjamin, a University of Nevada, Reno alumnus, was commissioned to create the asphalt mural as part of the City of Reno’s pilot project near Libby Booth Elementary School. Benjamin has previously contributed to public art projects in the city, including a sidewalk safety mural at Anderson Elementary School. According to a City of Reno announcement, the project had a budget of $11,600 from the City’s Street Fund, which covered paint, supplies, and the artist’s compensation.
