Olympia opens public voting for 2026 Traffic Box Wrap project

The City of Olympia has opened public voting for the 2026 Traffic Box Wrap project. This year’s survey features 100 original entries for the next round of public art installations.

Through the annual project, the city transforms traffic signal boxes along sidewalks and street corners into colorful public art displays.

The top 10 designs selected through the public vote will be installed later on traffic boxes throughout Olympia.

According to the city, the wraps turn ordinary pieces of street infrastructure into public art, while also helping reduce graffiti and maintenance needs.

Voting is open through June 30 on Engage Olympia, the city’s online public participation platform. Olympia residency is not required to participate.

Winning Traffic Box Wraps are expected to be announced this summer, with installations planned for the summer and fall.

Since its launch in 2015, about 81 traffic box wraps have been installed throughout the city.

In April, the city invited artists living within 30 miles of Olympia City Hall to submit one original piece of artwork for consideration.

Submitted works underwent review by the Olympia Arts Commission and Olympia City Council before advancing to the public voting phase.

Selected artists will receive a $500 honorarium and recognition on the city’s website. The artwork is typically displayed publicly for two to three years, depending on wear and condition.

The final selections are expected to be confirmed later this summer.