Located throughout Riverside's 324 signalized intersections are objects that many drivers pass without a second thought: traffic signal cabinets. Painted in a dull gray, these cabinets quietly contain the equipment that regulates traffic signals throughout the city. Lately, however, some of them have begun standing out rather than blending in.
In spring 2025, the Public Works Department launched an initiative to transform ordinary traffic boxes, pieces of infrastructure that are common targets of graffiti, into decorative displays. The program reflects a larger initiative to beautify the city through objects often seen day-to-day.
Currently, 38 traffic boxes across Riverside have been redesigned to have a more appealing look. From schools to presidential streets, Public Works is eyeing a diversity of locations that could potentially house the newest redesigned traffic box. Looking ahead, the program plans to expand by highlighting nearby city facilities, as well as other sites that hold historical or cultural significance.
"We are currently working internally on other new cabinets with the intent of highlighting a nearby City facility, place of historic or regional significance, and more," Public Works Director Nathan Mustafa said.
Each traffic cabinet has an intricate and creative look, many designed by the City's Marketing & Communications team. However, to showcase a taste of the area's rich artistic talent, the Public Works Department invites art proposals, encouraging creators to submit their ideas for the community to see.
"Some cabinet artwork is designed in-house for City projects through our amazing Marketing & Communications team," Mustafa said. "When we need outside assistance, though, we put out a call for an art proposal. One we recently issued was for the Civil Rights Walk. These are posted on our webpage and we share them widely, and I'd encourage interested artists to email specialevents@riversideca.gov if they'd like to learn more about our art proposal process and how they can stay informed of future solicitations."
The designs plastered on the traffic boxes symbolize a variety of values, which ultimately stems back to the central vision of the city. In a mission "to inspire everyone through meaningful arts and cultural experiences," the program serves as an attempt to emphasize Riverside's cultural and diverse artistic hub.
To most Riverside residents, the rusty metal cabinets once seemed like nothing more than ordinary traffic hardware. Now, they are taking on a new life, serving as small canvases celebrating the history, artistic talent, and stories that make Riverside, Riverside.
From left, traffic signal cabinets honoring presidents Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe and Theodore Roosevelt stand at intersections across Riverside, part of the Presidential Park series of redesigned cabinets. (Titus Pardee)
