Transforming Omaha’s Traffic Cabinets into Works of Art
The Omaha Downtown Improvement District (ODIDA) proudly completed a beautification project that turned ordinary traffic cabinets into extraordinary works of public art. Across Omaha’s Central Business District and Old Market District, colorful designs now brighten the streetscape, celebrating local talent while making Downtown more vibrant and welcoming.
About the Project
In partnership with Omaha by Design, the City of Omaha, and Local Artist. Local Art., ODIDA invited eight local artists to design and paint utility boxes along Howard Street between 17th and 13th. Designs were reviewed and approved by the Omaha Public Art Commission, ensuring each piece enhanced the historic and cultural fabric of Downtown.
Generous funding from the Nebraska Arts Council and Local Artist. Local Art. made this project possible. Inspired by the successful ORBT art box initiative, this program brought together creativity, collaboration, and community pride.
“This initiative not only beautified our urban environment but also supported local artists and engaged the community in a meaningful way.”
— Holly Barrett, ODID Executive Director
Meet the Artists
Talented Nebraska artists brought their unique voices to the project:
👉 Meet the Artists & View the Artwork →
Community Impact
- Artists at Work: Residents and visitors could watch artists create live, turning sidewalks into open studios.
- Engagement: Conversations between artists and passersby fostered connection and curiosity.
- Beautification: Once-ordinary infrastructure is now part of Omaha’s public art collection.
Supporting Our Community
This project also spotlighted resources for individuals experiencing homelessness, linking public art with compassion and outreach.
What’s Next
ODIDA will continue investing in projects that bring together creativity, safety, and community pride. Building on the success of the Howard Street installations, Local Artist. Local Art. (LaLa) will expand the art wrap project with additional traffic cabinets along 10th Street—further brightening the corridor and connecting key destinations in Downtown Omaha.
