The Town of Southern Pines is proud to unveil a new artistic crosswalk on Memorial Park Court, bringing both color and safety improvements to one of the Town’s most active community spaces. This installation marks the launch of a pilot project to explore creative ways to incorporate public art into our town.
Located between Memorial Park’s ballfields, the vibrant crosswalk was designed with children and families in mind. The fun, colorful design reflects the energy and activity of this popular park and enhances safety in a high-traffic pedestrian zone.
The initiative was a collaboration between the Appearance Commission and the Town’s Public Works Department. The Appearance Commission guided the design and suggested locations, while Streets Superintendent Archie Daniel and his team identified cost-effective and durable materials that could be installed by Town staff.
“The Appearance Commission thanks the Town of Southern Pines leadership and Council for supporting the idea and our incredible streets crew who made it a reality. We also appreciate the City of Raleigh for providing instrumental guidance on their own artistic crosswalks,” said Kate Shinkwin, Chair of the Southern Pines Appearance Commission in a press release. “Public art has the power to do more than inspire, it can actually help make our community safer. We’re thrilled to have found a hybrid solution that’s proven successful in other communities: using art to bring both beauty and safety to a heavily trafficked corridor connecting the baseball fields, skate park, playground, and Boys & Girls Club. We hope this is just the beginning of many more artistic crosswalks to come.”
The Southern Pines Appearance Commission is made up of volunteers appointed by the Town Council to assist the Town with programs related to community beautification and aesthetics. The Appearance Commission oversees the Adopt-a-Street program, designs the materials for the downtown planters, and hosts the annual Arbor Day event.
The Commission also facilitates the annual "Sprucing Up Southern Pines” award program, recognizing residents and businesses who have made a noticeable effort to clean up, repair, improve, or otherwise enhance their exterior property. This year’s winners will be recognized at the September 9th Town Council meeting.
The Town looks forward to receiving community feedback and exploring more opportunities to combine public art with practical improvements to streets and parks.
For more information about the Appearance Commission, please visit sopinesnc.info/SPAC.
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