City of Richmond aims to beautify utility boxes

Pilot program brings art to ten Broad Street boxes

RIC utility box

Richmond Deputy Director of Operations Torrence Robinson, graphic designer Terrell Mack, and Mayor Levar Stoney stand around the first beautified box.

Photo via City of Richmond

On Thursday, Feb. 29, the city launched a new pilot program focused on beautifying utility boxes around the city. The first of these boxes sits at the corner of Broad and 9th Street and is styled to look like a postcard for the city.

Also known as traffic signal cabinets, utility boxes are the site of street art in cities around the world. The designs for the next nine boxes will center around historically significant people, iconic structures, and local culture. Each box will specifically address the area it sits in along Broad Street. Plans are already in effect, and designs are in the works from the city’s graphic design team.

More from RICtoday
Check out these 15+ hiking trails in and around Richmond for your next outdoor adventure.
Find a map of participants and go yard sale shopping at the Fan Flea on Saturday, April 25.
See when the biggest River City parties are going down.
Join the James River Watch to help test river conditions and keep Richmonders safe.
Find your next favorite band or album at a local shop.
Browse through 100+ VisArt classes, and learn how to apply for financial aid.
What familiar faces fortify the realm of the inaugural Richmond Ren Faire?
Take a look at seven of the oldest restaurants in Richmond, Virginia, ranging from diners to restaurants and pubs.
Wisteria is a tell-tale sign of spring in Richmond, but there’s more to this beautiful plant than meets the eye.
See where to stock up on seasonal produce around the city, from year-round shopping to in-season markets.