Artworks Trenton, the city’s nonprofit visual art center, has unveiled an ambitious project to reshape the urban landscape and redefine pedestrian experiences in Trenton. In collaboration with a coalition of nonprofit organizations and local and state government partners, Artworks has announced Phase 1 of the Trenton Artwalk: the commissioning of a public art mural to animate the Route 1/129 underpass.

The proposed mural, a permanent artistic transformation of the underpass’s north wall along Market Street, marks the initial step in creating a visually captivating and pedestrian-friendly Artwalk connecting the Trenton Transit Center with downtown Trenton. This project aims to foster a safer, more inviting passage while promoting healthy living and public transit use among residents, commuters, and visitors.

The Trenton Transit Center serves as a transit gateway, accommodating Amtrak, New Jersey Transit, SEPTA, and the River Line light rail. Currently, pedestrians navigating the route to downtown Trenton face dark, unwelcoming conditions through the Route 1/129 underpass, according to a press release. The Trenton Artwalk initiative envisions a dynamic transformation, incorporating public art, wayfinding elements, traffic calming measures, and landscaping to create a safe and inspiring journey. Phase 1 of the Artwalk begins with the Route 1/129 underpass mural. This mural will brighten the underpass and reflect the history and culture of Trenton.

Artworks Trenton is inviting artists from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for this public art opportunity. The selected artist or artists will design, fabricate, and install a mural that captures the community spirit and enriches the city’s cultural landscape. Artists are encouraged to incorporate local themes and involve Trenton’s youth, schools, and communities in the creative process. Artists shortlisted for the next phase will each receive a $1,500 stipend to develop detailed proposals and present their ideas to the Art Selection Committee and community members. For more information, visit artworkstrenton.org.