Omaha Downtown Improvement District commences beautification project with Omaha area artists

Art wrap on downtown Omaha street corner utility box

The Omaha Downtown Improvement District (ODID) is excited to announce the launch of a project that will transform traffic cabinets in Omaha’s Central Business District and the Old Market District into vibrant works of art. This initiative is part of ODID’s ongoing efforts to beautify and activate Downtown Omaha while promoting community engagement. 

ODID has partnered with Omaha by Design, the City of Omaha, and Local Art, Local Art to bring this vision to life. The initial phase will start at 17th and Howard Streets and go on to 13th and Howard Streets. Weather permitting, the vinyl application on the eight boxes will begin on August 9th. Throughout August and September, the eight selected artists will paint custom designs directly onto the boxes, approved by the Omaha Public Art Commission.  

This process, modeled after the ORBT station utility boxes initiative, maximizes funding for artists and offers the public a change to see the creative process in action. Generous grants from the Nebraska Arts Council and the Midlands Community Foundation funded the initial phase.  

“We are excited to bring this project to life and add vibrant, engaging artwork to Downtown Omaha,” said Holly Barrett, ODID Executive Director. “This initiative not only beautifies our urban environment but also supports local artists and engages the community in a meaningful way.”

The Omaha Downtown Improvement District (ODID) is excited to announce the launch of a project that will transform traffic cabinets in Omaha’s Central Business District and the Old Market District into vibrant works of art. This initiative is part of ODID’s ongoing efforts to beautify and activate Downtown Omaha while promoting community engagement. 

ODID has partnered with Omaha by Design, the City of Omaha, and Local Art, Local Art to bring this vision to life. The initial phase will start at 17th and Howard Streets and go on to 13th and Howard Streets. Weather permitting, the vinyl application on the eight boxes will begin on August 9th. Throughout August and September, the eight selected artists will paint custom designs directly onto the boxes, approved by the Omaha Public Art Commission.  

This process, modeled after the ORBT station utility boxes initiative, maximizes funding for artists and offers the public a change to see the creative process in action. Generous grants from the Nebraska Arts Council and the Midlands Community Foundation funded the initial phase.  

“We are excited to bring this project to life and add vibrant, engaging artwork to Downtown Omaha,” said Holly Barrett, ODID Executive Director. “This initiative not only beautifies our urban environment but also supports local artists and engages the community in a meaningful way.”

About the Omaha Downtown Improvement District

Omaha Downtown Improvement District Association

The ODIDA’s mission is to support, preserve, create, and enhance a clean, green, safe, and vibrant Downtown Omaha that attracts and retains businesses, employees, residents, and visitors. Created in 2007, the association aims to create a more inviting and attractive Downtown region through projects that meet the District’s needs. Improvement activities include beautification and litter removal, economic development programs, safety and security enhancements, advocacy, and activation. Visit us at OmahaDowntown.org.


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