Public art adds to the cultural vitality of a community, but it can also serve a dual purpose of educating the public on important initiatives. As we’re currently nine months into the pandemic, a joint project with a local artist and the non-profit, Smart Growth America, enabled the RTC to promote COVID-19 safety protocols to thousands of transit customers who pass through the Bonneville Transit Center daily.

“A wave is as good as a smile” and “Your nostrils are showing” are two of about a dozen reminders at the transit center about social distancing, wearing a face covering and washing hands frequently. Ashley Hairston Doughty, who is a professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and a visual storyteller using verbal and visual language, spearheaded the art project. She was supported behind the scenes by Mark Salinas, a governor-appointed board member of the Nevada Arts Council and the former founding Director of the Carson City Department of Arts & Culture.

Amid the public health crisis brought on by COVID-19, transportation agencies across the country face challenges in continuing to provide transportation service while maintaining a focus on COVID-related safety measures. Smart Growth America’s initiative sees artists as unique partners to help solve these challenges. Watch the video below and visit rtcsnv.com for a look at the artwork and signage from the collaboration.