The Lompoc Valley Community Healthcare Organization (LVCHO) is celebrating the 10th anniversary of Lompoc’s creative crosswalks, a project that continues to bring color, safety and community pride to Old Town.

An aerial view shows the newly repaved crosswalks in Lompoc patterns. (Courtesy photo)
An aerial view shows the newly repaved crosswalks in Lompoc that are decorated with orange and white patterns including wine bottles, sea creatures, and flowers. (Courtesy photo)

The creative crosswalks were first installed in 2015 through a partnership between LVCHO, the Lompoc Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the Lompoc Valley Arts Council, with $30,000 in support from the Santa Barbara Foundation.

Created by local artists, the walks were designed to increase safety, encourage walking, and strengthen the local economy through vibrant public art.

When the city of Lompoc began repaving downtown streets last year, City Manager Albro and LVCHO executive director Ashley Costa worked together to ensure the crosswalks were prioritized and repaved. Thanks to their effort, the creative crosswalks were reinstalled this summer.

“Coinciding with the 10th anniversary of their installation, the city is excited to have helped repave the creative crosswalks. We value the opportunity these crosswalks provide to showcase local public art throughout the community,” said Dean Albro, Lompoc city manager.

As LVCHO looks to the future, the creative crosswalks will continue to welcome community members and visitors for years to come, serving as a reminder that small changes in the built environment can have a lasting impact on health and quality of life, the city said.

“Our mission is to improve community health through five core strategies: healthcare access, healthy eating, physical activity, mental wellness, and community resilience,” said Costa. “Walking has long been a central focus of our work to promote physical activity.

“These crosswalks not only encourage walking, but they also reflect the creativity, culture, and vitality of our community. We’re deeply grateful to the city of Lompoc for partnering with us to ensure the crosswalks remain a proud part of our downtown identity.”

The nonprofit LVCHO works to address health disparities, promote wellness, and empower individuals and families to thrive. Learn more at www.healthylompoc.org.