Mural Creates Welcoming Gateway 2024

The Downtown District Alliance, a newly formed group of downtown small business owners, has launched its first community-driven project with a simple but meaningful goal: encourage people not to drive past Newburgh, but to drive into Newburgh.

Rather than pursuing an extensive wayfinding signage program, the group focused on creating a bold visual statement that reflects the spirit and identity of downtown. The new mural and signage concept is designed to welcome visitors, guide residents and tourists, and establish a stronger sense of place throughout the city.

“This is the first of hopefully many reimagined gateway signs that can establish a sense of place in downtown Newburgh,” organizers shared. “The new signage will welcome visitors to our city while promoting greater accessibility, connection, and pride throughout the community.”

Washington Street was identified as a key gateway corridor, connecting the waterfront and intersecting with the heavily trafficked Water Street. Additional entry points including South William Street, Renwick Street, and First Street were also recognized as important connectors into downtown.

The project was designed collaboratively by several downtown creatives and business owners: Pat Nunnari of Colorcube, Luke Williams of BONE NYC, and Jason Otero of Art and Anthropology. Together, the team developed a design that reflects both the creativity and character of Newburgh’s growing downtown district.

The mural marks the beginning of what the Alliance hopes will become a larger effort to strengthen neighborhood identity, support local businesses, and create a more welcoming downtown experience for residents and visitors alike.