Coral Reefs Magically Appear at Local Bus Shelters

Takoma Park has moved closer to the Caribbean since colorful coral reefs have magically appeared inside two local bus shelters.

Vinyl wraps featuring a lively aquatic design have been installed on glass panels at the bus shelters to enliven community spaces and encourage public transportation. The City of Takoma Park’s Arts and Humanities Division organized the project using public art funds.

“We wanted to create a fun scene that would brighten people’s day while they’re walking by or waiting for the bus,” Arts and Humanities Coordinator Brendan Smith said. “They are the first bus shelters where you can sit next to tropical fish and sea turtles without holding your breath.”

Arts and Humanities Intern Paula Barrios designed the wraps which were installed on shelters at the ALDI shopping center at 1300 Holton Lane and at the intersection of Maple Avenue and Hilltop Road.

Grab a face mask and snorkel and dive in! Take some photos of yourself exploring the coral reefs and share them on the City of Takoma Park’s Twitter page at twitter.com/takomaparkmd and Instagram at instagram.com/TakomaParkMD.

Vinyl wraps promoting the Takoma Park Arts series also have been installed on three additional bus shelters. The wraps feature artwork and former performers in the Takoma Park Arts series, which features free arts events at the Takoma Park Community Center. Two shelters are located at the intersection of Flower Avenue and Houston Avenue, and the third shelter is next to Piney Branch Elementary School at 7510 Maple Avenue.

Go to takomaparkmd.gov/arts for more info about the Takoma Park Arts series and sign up for our e-newsletter.