Quick build at 5th & 7th yields safer and more joyful space for all
Paint, flex posts, crosswalks, and curb extensions combined to make this busy intersection better for everyone using it
Aerial of the completed mural, surrounded by TENWEST Street Fest on November 4th, 2023 (Photo courtesy Lucas Boring)
Earlier this month Living Streets Alliance had the joy of leading yet another block-painting party at the intersection of 7th Street and 5th Avenue, which resulted in a big, bold, and vibrant transformation of the intersection.
The project came about as a collaboration with Startup Tucson, organizers of TENWEST Impact Fest, as a way to provide a lasting contribution to the area where their kick-off event—Tenwest Street Fest—would take place, and as something that participants could be a part of creating.
About the intersection
The area between 4th & 6th Ave and downtown and 6th Street has seen a LOT of change and development in the past few years, with more on the way. What used to be empty lots and vacant buildings are now being filled with multi-unit housing and new concept businesses and that’s led to a lot more activity in the area. 5th Ave & 7th Street is a perfect example of an intersection that was much bigger and wider than it needed to be, making it less than ideal to navigate on foot, bike, or in a car. Wide lanes, no crosswalks, and only a two-way stop created potential for conflicts as more and more people starting using this area regularly on multiple modes of transportation.
Here’s how the quick build helps:
By adding curb extensions, the project narrowed down the crossing distance for people on foot, reducing exposure time with people in cars.
Crosswalks were added on all four sides of the intersection to make it abundantly clear that people on foot have the right of way. This also encourages people on foot to cross in those locations, where drivers can look for and expect them
The two-way stop was converted to a four-way stop. This greatly reduces the potential for speeding, which reduced the severity of crashes in the event that they happen. It also give people approaching from each direction a methodical turn to go.
The bright murals signal to everyone that this is an actual place and to expect people out and about accordingly. It makes it more interesting and fun to pass through or by.
An aerial of the intersection from earlier this year. Note the new permanent curb extension installed on the Southwest corner as part of the new Corbett’s development.
The Speedy Striping crew installing the new curb extensions, crosswalks, flex posts, and stop signs (Photo courtesy Lucas Boring)
While planning for the project started in early 2023, the transformation happened quickly, over the course of just days. The Speedy Striping team was able to establish the new space in one day thanks, establishing the new intersection geometry with paint, flex posts, and signage. The murals were painting by about 80 volunteers during Tenwest Street Fest. Here are some photos from the day:
Finally, we’d like to thank our amazing partners and collaborators on this project, many of whom provided substantial in-kind support to make it possible:
