Traffic signal box art initiative
New artworks painted on traffic boxes are signalling a creative approach to graffiti reduction in Yarra.
In May 2012, colourful images were painted on four traffic signal boxes in Richmond, Fitzroy and North Fitzroy.
Another traffic box on the corner of Church and Victoria streets in Richmond was painted last November.
Council sought permission from VicRoads to decorate the roadside boxes which house electronic components that control the traffic and pedestrian signals at intersections.
Traffic signal boxes are prime targets for tagging and other forms of unsightly graffiti.
Brisbane City Council was the first Australian council to trial the idea with its Artforce program in 1999, which has since seen 900 of Brisbane’s 1000 traffic signal boxes painted.
More information about the Artforce program is available on Brisbane City Council's website.
Yarra City Council has followed the Brisbane example in the hope that it will reduce graffiti, provide opportunities for local artists and enhance local streets with new and vibrant art.
The City of Banyule in conjunction with VicRoads has successfully painted over 21 boxes, and the City of Darebin is looking at going through the process with VicRoads too.
Council aims to employ local artists to paint five more boxes in 2012-13.
Where are the boxes located?
The boxes painted in May 2012 can be found in the following locations:
Swan Street - 141 Swan Street, Richmond
Victoria Street - Cnr Victoria and Charles Street, Richmond
Bridge Road - Cnr Bridge Road and Lennox Street, Richmond
Queens Parade - Cnr Michael Street and Queens Parade
Smith Street - Cnr Charles and Smith Street, Fitzroy
Getting permission from VicRoads
Designs for the boxes are submitted to VicRoads for approval before they can proceed.
The boxes identification label must be retained in any design, and designs may not feature references to traffic control items (ie signs, traffic signals etc) or be offensive.
Further information
Sherie Cursio
Administration and Projects Officer
9205 5703
Sherie.Cursio@yarracity.vic.gov.au
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