The murals on the Ironton riverfront floodwall have been a beacon of community pride for decades. In 2021, Third and Center was able to refresh some of the existing murals, including the large, iconic “Ironton, Ohio Welcomes You” mural as well as add new installations by local artists. The revitalization was completed in time for a yearly music festival held on the river for thousands of people to enjoy. This project was funded by grants and community fundraising. Third and Center intends to continue the revitalization until complete.

The project that started it all….. adding art in the form of crosswalk murals and artistic bike racks thanks to an award from The Ohio Arts Council and community donations. The bike racks were designed and made by junior and senior welding students at Collins Career Center. Third and Center held a contest to award the crosswalk installations to the winning artists. Jesse Jiles, an artist from Lawrence County, won one of the crosswalk installations with his vibrant stepping circles design. The other two crosswalk installations were awarded to residents at STAR Community Justice Center and included vibrant geometric designs and paper airplanes. The goals of this project were to increase pedestrian safety and walkability in Historic Downtown Ironton, to increase interest in biking downtown, and most importantly to allow young people, specifically young artists, an opportunity to create something that will have a lasting positive effect on their community.

Events bring a strong sense of pride and friendship to our neighborhoods, and there’s no better way to get to know your neighbor. The free, donation-based, and fundraising events held in Ironton, OH and surrounding areas are guaranteed to showcase the best art, music, food, and attitude that the community has to offer.