Getting to Green: Routes to Roots
August 1, 2023
SEPTA partnered with Mural Arts and Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission (DVRPC) on Getting to Green: Routes to Roots - a multidisciplinary public art project aimed at inspiring Philadelphia residents to use public transportation - aka SEPTA - to explore the city’s green spaces. Through unique artwork that includes a bus wrap, posters in bus shelters, and print materials featuring hand-drawn maps - riders are encouraged to discover new pathways and routes.
The project has a special focus on promoting equity in public transportation by reaching out to immigrant, refugee, and non-native English speaking communities to provide access and facilitate a better understanding of the bus system. The goal is to encourage these communities to explore beyond their familiar routes and enjoy the city’s green spaces.
The project is a collaboration of two local Philadelphia artists. Shira Walinsky is an artist and educator that has worked with Mural Arts Philadelphia and has created over 40 murals across Philadelphia. Her work focuses on people and maps. Laura Deutch is an artist and educator that uses media and participatory art to build community and foster social change. Her projects use digital and analog mediums to investigate the relationships between people, places, and their stories.
Throughout the year - Getting to Green: Routes to Roots will highlight transit routes that lead to various green spaces throughout the city, including nature walks, picnic sites, bike paths, and special events. First up are SEPTA Routes 9, 38, and 7. Mural Arts created tips on taking transit to access green spaces in Philadelphia - including downloadable mini PDF guides:
Route 9 - Getting to Wissahickon: Route 9 travels along Walnut from 4th to 23rd street, then takes the highway to the Wissahickon Transportation Center (WTC). Along this route, you can explore the Schuylkill River Paved Trail and stop at Gorgas Park along the way.
Route 38 - Getting to Centennial District: Route 38 travels along Market Street in Center City, through West to the Parkside neighborhood or West Fairmount Park. How fun is Route 38! Explore Centennial Arboretum Ground and make a quick stop at the Shofuso House and Please Touch Museum next stop transport yourself into a beautiful escape to Concourse Lake and Pavilion in the Trees.
Route 7 - Getting to Lemon Hill: Route 7 travels along Oregon Avenue in South Philly. Walk along Waterworks Drive and try and find Tiger at the bay; after head towards Lemon Hill Mansion to explore the beauty it has to offer and finish off your trip at The Wedges Sculpture.
You can also check out short video profiles showcasing these routes and hear personal stories from riders and operators here. Mural Arts also has events planned that are open to the public.
Getting to Green is hosting - Rediscovering the Centennial District via Route 38 on Saturday, August 5, 2023 from 10AM–1PM. Registration is required.
Getting to Green will continue to host bus tours and events during the summer and fall months. Keep an eye out for transit itineraries to activities at parks and green spaces throughout the city. Check here for more info.
There are a ton of great parks and outdoor spaces along SEPTA transit routes. You may be surprised how quickly you can get from major urban centers to green spaces. And remember - you can bring your bike on the bus to explore and experience more!
Plan your trip HERE.
