Committee backs $134,500 youth asphalt‑art pilot to make intersections safer

The Measure P Oversight Committee unanimously voted May 14 to recommend that the City Council authorize $134,500 for a pilot program, Vallejo Youth Create Asphalt Art for Safer Streets, which would install one asphalt‑art mural in each of the city’s six districts and run youth education camps.

Annette Taylor, senior community development analyst and staff to the Culture & Arts Commission, and Commissioner Chris Thorson described the program as an intersection of traffic‑safety measures and youth engagement. They cited research that intersections with asphalt art see reduced crash rates and argued the project would beautify streets, encourage drivers to slow down and offer leadership opportunities for local youth.

Speakers discussed durability and maintenance: staff said the program includes a maintenance allocation and that Public Works is advising on sealants to extend mural life. Commissioners asked how sites would be selected and how the project would coordinate with street resurfacing; staff said final site selection would involve district council members and Public Works.

Public commenters endorsed the project for youth involvement and safer streets. The committee’s unanimous recommendation advances the request to the Vallejo City Council for final authorization and appropriation.