Art has arrived at the Maplewood MetroBus Project at the corner of Manchester in Marshall as a part of the transformation project underway. The Maplewood Transit Stop Transformation project is a joint initiative between CMT, AARP in St. Louis, KaBOOM!, the City of Maplewood and Citizens National Bank to convert the space surrounding the Maplewood MetroBus stop into a fun, artistic space that encourages active play, cultivates community and increases transit use. The design for the overall project was led by BlackArc Design with input from residents. The public art installation is a key feature of the project, building on – yet distinct from – the architect’s design. The new refurbished shelters are the next stop in the next week or so.
The work of local, award-winning painter and mixed media artist Genevieve Esson, of Maplewood, was selected for the public art installation. Esson earned a Bachelor of Arts with an emphasis in painting from Webster University and has completed 17 public art projects. Her vision for the Maplewood Transit Stop Transformation Project celebrates the identity of the City of Maplewood and expresses a deep understanding and commitment to equitable development, the impact and possibility of play and the ability for creative interventions to produce long-term impact in neighborhoods.
“We are eager to see the true impact of this transformed site in the coming weeks on transit riders and the community at large,” said Kimberly Cella, executive director of Citizens for Modern Transit. “This special art component designed specifically for the Maplewood area will further enhance the engaging space being created at this busy transit stop.”
The Maplewood Transit Stop Transformation project serves as an extension to Citizens for Modern Transit (CMT) and AARP in St. Louis’ ongoing efforts to raise awareness about “placemaking” around transit. This is a concept that transforms places people simply pass through en route to their next destination – like MetroLink and MetroBus stations – into active, engaging corridors that connect individuals and neighborhoods by offering access to products, services, and green spaces.