CLEVELAND, Ohio — A recent study revealed a unique way to keep streets safer for pedestrians: by adding a bit of artwork.

“It gets attention,” said Rachel Oscar, a member of People’s Streets, a grassroots nonprofit aimed at helping make the streets of Cleveland safer for pedestrians, those on scooters and bicyclists, through the use of painted crosswalks.

“People can slow down, but it’s not distracting,” said Oscar about the new crosswalks seen driving down Payne Avenue.

The street is a critical road, connecting downtown Cleveland to the campus district and AsiaTown, where you’ll find most of these new crosswalks.

“People love seeing artwork," Oscar said. "It puts them in a good mood."

The design and the color are not just eye-catching to drivers, but also representative of the area.

“This kind of wave or scale design is in the blades signs in AsiaTown,” said Karis Tzeng, vice president of planning for Midtown Cleveland.

Payne Avenue is not just challenging for folks to cross. Many of the sidewalks were created without a cut, making it hard for those in wheelchairs and electric scooters. It’s a reason the painted crosswalks are only one part of this project. 

“These curb extensions here really ensure that there are safe turning radiuses, so if someone’s crossing they’re not going to get cut off at the pass,” says Oscar. 

Cleveland’s first-ever crosswalk and curb extension murals are made possible through the support of Spin and Cleveland artist, Mike Sobeck.

Oscar said she hopes the project serves as a model for cities and towns across Ohio to do the same. 

“We’re trying to make sure people are protected and feel that they’re represented by the streets in their built environment,” she said. 

Payne Avenue is expected to be resurfaced in the next two years. Oscar said hopes the design then becomes a permanent part of the street.