Baltimore County unveils plan to add public art to streets

Baltimore County aims to brighten its streets with an initiative that invites residents to create art on roadways.

The county’s Department of Planning is accepting applications for DIY asphalt art projects within commercial revitalization districts, areas that have been targeted by the county for investment and redevelopment. The effort aims to enhance walkability and improve the aesthetic appeal of commercial corridors.

The artwork can be placed on shoulders and pedestrian-only areas such as bump-outs but not in travel lanes, crosswalks or intersections.

“Residents are clear that they want their neighborhoods and communities to be more colorful as well as safer,” Baltimore County Executive Kathy Klausmeier said in a statement. “This gives communities a way to bring art to their streets in a way that supports businesses and strengthens neighborhood identity.”

All proposed projects will go through an application process and be considered by the Asphalt Art Review Team, made up of staff members from multiple county departments. The application includes a project summary, budget, conceptual design, list of materials and maintenance plan.

If approved, applicants are responsible for the installation and ongoing maintenance of the artwork.

The policy leaves most aspects of the design up to the artist, though there are a few guidelines. Projects cannot resemble traffic markings, interfere with existing road lines, or use colors or features that could confuse drivers and pedestrians.

Applicants can propose temporary projects that display for under six months, short-term projects lasting up to three years and long-term projects lasting more than three years.

In a Public Art on Baltimore County Roadways policy adopted Jan. 21, the county said the benefits of street art can include slowing traffic and improving safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. It also can help create a sense of place, strengthen community identity and enhance mental well-being and the local economy.

“With this policy, we’re giving communities a chance to transform their streetscapes through art,” said Megan Oliver, a senior planner in the county planning department. “When residents, visitors, and business owners engage with art in their everyday environments, the benefits ripple across the entire community.”

For full eligibility requirements, design guidelines and application details, visit the Public Art on Baltimore County Roadways guide.