Creekside Current

Description

Before the Downtown Greenway transformed this corridor, the Friendly Avenue underpass was an eroding, graffiti-covered space alongside the former railroad. Local Westerwood resident and artist John Gibbs reimagined the area through a vibrant mural inspired by the wildlife he and his family encountered while exploring the neighborhood and walking along College Branch stream.

The artwork celebrates the surprising abundance of nature found in the heart of the city, featuring turtles, a Belted Kingfisher, Hooded Merganser, and Great Blue Heron – species that are exciting to see in this urban environment.

Behind the mural, gabion baskets filled with stone help stabilize the streambank and control erosion. Hidden within six of the baskets are recycled wine bottles containing messages from donors whose generosity helped bring the Downtown Greenway to life, creating a lasting connection between the artwork, the landscape, and the community that made it possible.