Storm drain art brings creativity, conservation to Carrollton streets

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The third round of the City of Carrollton’s Storm Drain Art Contest is complete as the winning artists have successfully added seven more vibrant artworks to storm drains in Downtown Carrollton.

Following the success of the last two years of the storm drain art program, the City once again opened submissions for designs that fit themes of preventing stormwater pollution, maintaining safe drinking water sources or water conservation, and protecting natural habitats. A committee of City staff and Downtown stakeholders selected seven winning designs, and community members voted on a People’s Choice winner.

This year’s artists painted storm drain inlets spanning South Broadway Street in Downtown Carrollton. Using environmentally friendly acrylic paint, they brought bright colors, imagery of animals and natural environments, and even messages such as “protect our wildlife, only rain in the drain” and “keep it clean” to each storm inlet. City staff have applied a sealant over the designs to protect them from sun and rain exposure. A biography of each artist and photos of their work are also available on the City website.

The community voted on Kammie Powell’s design “Every Drop Ripples” as the People’s Choice Winner. The design features a colorful ripple of water with the thoughtful message, “Every drop matters. Its ripple reaches farther than we think.” This is Powell’s third year in a row participating in the Storm Drain Art Contest and her second time winning People’s Choice. Her family even joined the fun and helped with the painting process.

The installation of storm drain art raises awareness about stormwater pollution. Water that collects in storm drains may pick up pollutants such as trash or vehicle fluid from the street, and then flow directly into creeks and surface water throughout the City without being treated. Painting the storm drains is not only a unique art installation for the community to enjoy, but a reminder for everyone to help protect the local water supply and the environment.

“Storm drains are something most people pass by without a second thought, but they play an important role in protecting water quality,” Andie McClure, Carrollton’s Stormwater Coordinator, said. “What enters a storm drain doesn’t disappear – it ultimately impacts creeks, wildlife habitat, and regional water quality. This project helps visualize the connection between our built environment and the natural systems surrounding us.”

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