Warner Robins unveils new artwork for ‘Adopt-A-Box’ Program: Bringing technique to traffic boxes

WARNER ROBINS — The city of Warner Robins is aiming for aesthetics in the mundane, inviting local artists to collaborate. Warner Robins installed artwork for its Adopt-A-Box program last week, something local leaders said adds beauty to the city.

“Adopt-A-Box is a creative way to bring our community together while enhancing the beauty of the arts in Warner Robins and showcasing the pride we have in our city,” Mayor LaRhonda Patrick said.

Kate Hogan, the city’s community and economic development director, said the city is excited for the initiative. The artworks are now proudly on display on eight traffic signal boxes along North Davis Drive, stretching from Tabor Drive to Russell Parkway.

The boxes were funded by a grant from the Georgia Municipal Association’s Economic Placemaking Collaborative.

“Our Adopt-A-Box program aims to bring beauty to each intersection. We have utility boxes necessary for traffic signals, and we are just excited to be able to bring a little bit more beauty as far as highlighting local artists,” Hogan said.

Hogan said the city solicited work on two separate occasions. Then, an internal review committee of economic development, traffic and public works employees made final selections.

“They reviewed all of the art and chose ones that would also abide by the guidelines for Georgia Department of Transportation, and put together some approved designs,” Hogan said.

Once the designs were approved, the city contracted with a local auto wrapping business, choosing vinyl wraps that are cost-effective, high-quality, and graffiti-resistant.

“We wanted to prioritize longevity of the design, because our aim is beautification. Any degradation of that design would be counteractive to the motivations of the program,” Hogan said.

Hogan said the city’s selection of location directly ties to downtown development as well. The project also builds off Keep Warner Robins Beautiful’s Adopt-A-Spot program, she said.

“We’re looking to bring beautification efforts in and around the downtown revitalization project in order to highlight the fact that this area does have character, and bring people down to the Commercial Circle area,” Hogan said.

The program also serves as a spotlight for the local art scene, she mentioned.

“[We’re] looking for ways for our city to continue to add character and highlight a robust arts culture. This seemed like a logical first step as far as trying to bring in some art and beautify everyday places,” Hogan said.

Overall, the program gives the city the chance to promote artwork in public spaces and beautify ordinary areas. Hogan mentioned the call is ongoing for new talent.

“We are constantly accepting work. We would love to see what our artist community has to offer,” Hogan said.

More information about the program can be found on the city’s website.