Project Description

Raton Great Blocks Placemaking Installations

Spurred by the New Mexico MainStreet’s Summer Leadership Network Meeting in 2018, Groundwork Studio assisted Raton MainStreet in the development of designs for multiple placemaking installations, including a 3D “floating” crosswalk, wayfinding footprints, painted games and portable benches/planters made of wooden pallets. Conference attendees had the opportunity to experience placemaking firsthand as they painted the crosswalk, created wayfinding footprints, and participated in ground-level games in Raton’s Great Blocks project. The 3D crosswalk creates a visually interesting traffic calming feature, while painted footprints lead transit station travelers to local businesses. Painted games, like Checkers, and dance prompts provide a fun way to pass the time as they wait for their bus or train, while the pallet benches provide shaded seating. City officials have reported that these installations have been so popular, they are currently looking for ways to make them more permanent.

Location

Raton, NM

Client

Raton MainStreet and NM MainStreet

Year Completed

2018

Services

Creative Placemaking
Community Engagement

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