Traffic calming project shutting down a portion of West Washington Street

SOUTH BEND, Ind. - The City of South Bend announced it's collaborating with neighborhood groups to install what's described as a traffic calming project in the 1000 block of West Washington Street.

The art installation began on Wednesday, June 5, with plans to be finished by Sunday, June 9, weather permitting.

West Washington Street will be closed to thru traffic between Walnut and Chapin Streets.

Local access will be maintained.

The project will also include temporary bumpouts and crosswalks.

The main project includes the installation of asphalt art created by local artist Chris Silva.

The street art will be installed in front of the Indiana University South Bend’s Civil Rights Heritage Center and the University of Notre Dame’s Center for Civic Innovation.

City officials say the artwork is expected to draw attention to the pedestrian crossing and calm traffic.