Downtown Altoona is seeing a change in its visual landscape. Residents and visitors have likely seen the progress on the former Gable’s building, where new, colorful murals have been installed. This Saturday, the community will gather to celebrate these additions during the Downtown Art Walk.
The event kicks off at 11 a.m. at the Railroaders Memorial Museum. From there, attendees can move through the downtown area to view the finished murals and other local works. A professional chalk artist from Pittsburgh will join the festivities to create live art on the sidewalk throughout the day.
Organizers designed the walk to draw more people to the city center. Visitors will have a role in the day as well, with the opportunity to cast votes for their favorite mural. This event is part of a larger plan to bring new life to the downtown core.
Jamie Foust, the Downtown City Manager, noted the dedication required to complete these projects. The artists spent many hours on the murals, and the finished products now line 11th Avenue. City leaders hope these efforts improve the atmosphere for everyone who works, shops, or lives in downtown Altoona.