Project Summary
The City of Elk Grove is launching a pilot asphalt art project at the intersection of Franklin High Road and Hewitt Way. This creative placemaking project is designed to enhance traffic safety, revitalize the public space, and create a more welcoming and accessible environment for all road users.
Project Highlights
- Enhancing Traffic Safety: The artwork is intended to draw drivers’ attention to crosswalks and bike paths, helping to make the intersection safer for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers alike.
- Neighborhood Beautification: We’re incorporating vibrant street art that reflects the character of the area, making the space more inviting, lively, and inclusive.
- Student-Created Design: In collaboration with Toby Johnson Middle School, the final mural was selected through a student art competition—created by youth, for the community.
This project exemplifies how public art can foster community pride while promoting traffic awareness and pedestrian safety.
Winning Design
"This is an art of crayons. This represents our community, and our arts. The crayons are different in size. This shows that not everyone is the same, but we're all equal. We are all crayons at the end of the day. The crayons' heads may differ in size, thickness, and sharpness, but this just shows our diversity."
—Wilson Wang, Grade 8
Installed Mural
Frequently Asked Questions
What is asphalt art?
Asphalt art, or aesthetic surface treatments, are temporary street murals that are applied to streets, crosswalks, sidewalks, or plazas. These temporary surface treatments bring art to unexpected places, transforming everyday infrastructure into vibrant public spaces. Studies have shown that such installations can slow traffic and reduce collisions, making streets safer. Communities with asphalt art have seen fewer crashes and improved pedestrian safety at key intersections.
How was the design chosen?
The City of Elk Grove partnered with Toby Johnson Middle School to host a student art competition, which received over 70 creative entries. The theme, “Community Threads,” encouraged students to reflect on local landmarks, nature, and community values through their artwork.
Students participated in workshops led by Art Teacher Mr. Jaime Shilen and submitted hand-drawn designs. The designs were reviewed by a panel of judges, including city staff and Mr. Mike Mangonon, representing the City’s Arts and Creative Economy Commission.
Each design was reviewed for:
- Creativity and originality
- Visual impact and aesthetics
- Relevance to the theme
- Consideration of safety and functionality
The winner of the competition will be recognized at an upcoming City Council meeting and awarded gift cards from the City of Elk Grove and Toby Johnson Middle School (not to exceed $100 from each entity).
The first-place winner is Wilson Wang (Grade 8). View the winning design. Meadow Johnson (Grade 8), Hana Zhu (Grade 8), and Ming Li (Grade 7) achieved second, third, and fourth places, respectively.
Thank you to all participants for submitting your designs!
How was this location chosen?
The intersection of Franklin High Road and Hewitt Way was selected due to the high pedestrian and bicycle traffic given its proximity to two schools and a public library. The layout of the intersection also makes it well-suited for a pilot art project.
This location will serve as a test case for future initiatives. The City will assess community feedback and monitor safety outcomes to determine if the program should expand to other areas.
When will the art be installed?
The art/mural was installed in August 2025.
How long will the art installation last?
The mural is expected to last 3 to 5 years and will gradually fade over time due to weather and street wear.
Will the art affect traffic flow or cause road closures?
Installation was scheduled during off-peak hours to reduce traffic impact.
Who is installing the mural?
The mural was installed by a professional contractor experienced in painted traffic striping and pavement markings, under the supervision of city staff.
How can I share my thoughts/feedback about this project?
We welcome community input! Please contact the Project Manager listed below with your thoughts or questions.
Contact
| Civic Innovation and Sustainability | |
|---|---|
Project Manager / Senior Management AnalystAsh Kumar |
Email or (916) 627-3321 |