University of Cincinnati
03/11/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 03/11/2026 23:12
Cincinnati’s top-ranking murals impact more than city aesthetics
Cincinnati's top-ranking murals impact more than city aesthetics
UC research highlights the impact of street art on vitality, economy
2 minute read March 11, 2026 Share on facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn Share on Reddit Print StoryLike
Cincinnati recently ranked second as the nation's runner-up for best street art.
Spectrum News turned to Hyesun Jeong, assistant professor of urban design at the University of Cincinnati's College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP), for insights on the tangible impact of these murals.
"I realized there was no empirical research on the degree these murals and public art can actually have on the economy and street vitality, like foot traffic," Jeong told Spectrum News.
She pioneered research into how murals energize Cincinnati's people and businesses. Her findings showed that street art can nearly triple foot traffic and she's expanding her work to help with urban design in Cincinnati and beyond.
"We are trying to make a greater impact beyond Cincinnati and seeing how we can replicate similar strategies in multiple cities and contexts," Jeong said. "How can we help communities through this data-driven research to impact future policies, designs and planning?" she added.
As Jeong's research expands to cities like Chicago, her team also grows. Graduate student Spencer Silverman told Spectrum News that collaborating with Jeong allowed him to "gain research and experience that not a lot of people have when joining the workforce."
Cincinnati is our city
Cincinnati is our extended classroom, lab, career network and a place to explore, learn and serve. UC's urban location gives students unmatched access to real-world learning, artistic inspiration and vibrant culture. Our research and community engagement continually benefit the city we call home.
Featured image at top of a mural representing Ukraine for Blink 2022 by UC faculty member Jenny Ustick. Photo/UC Marketing + Brand
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