Sacramento Regional Transit riders in Rancho Cordova have discovered their daily travels are just a little more colorful lately thanks to a wonderful new “street art” project in that city. 

Artists along with city officials and dozens of volunteer residents of Rancho Cordova recently painted large-scale artworks on the asphalt at three intersections, creating a whimsical and colorful environment. Studies show that street art and traffic calming reduce crashes and increase safety for pedestrians. The city plans soon to take traffic calming steps as well.  

We at SacRT appreciate being given the opportunity to consult with the city and the project, near several of our bus stops, and are impressed with the results. “We’re always looking to coordinate with municipalities to ensure unified vision and goals when projects impact transportation infrastructure, “SacRT senior planner Sarah Poe said. “Kudos to Rancho for getting the neighborhoods involved; they took a really fun approach!” 

The artworks, created on May 17, are located along Lincoln Village Drive. “Turtle and flowers” was designed by artists Molly Devlin and Stephen Williams. “Sunset on the River” was designed by Matthew Cavanaugh. Sacramento artist Karen Chen designed the third piece, called “Play.” 

Rancho Cordova leaders say the project is part of their efforts to make the city a safe, family-friendly place. “The Asphalt Art Project is a beautiful example of how art can bring people together while making our neighborhoods safer,” Mayor Siri Pulipati said. “It’s truly a ‘for the people, by the people’ effort, created by local artists, residents, and volunteers to reflect the heart of the Lincoln Village community and turn intersections into vibrant, welcoming places.” 

Rancho Cordova residents who have thoughts about the art project, including those who are interested in street art for their neighborhood, can email Ian Winbrock at iwinbrock@cityofranchocordova.org