Patterson’s fire hydrants are a work of art.
No, really, they are works of art — or soon will be.
Mayor Dedi Thomas and City Clerk Laura Kate Dixon announced the city’s fire hydrants will soon feature art.
Emily Hadaway, public relations and accounts payable clerk with the City of Patterson, has been coordinating the painting project.
Several hydrants have already been painted and more are in the works.
While fire hydrant painting has been featured nationwide as part of America’s 250th birthday celebration, the inspiration for Patterson’s project came from right within city hall itself.
Mayor Dedi Thomas is credited with being the creator of the fire hydrant painting project.
“He wanted to add a little color to our city and he came up with the idea,” said Hadaway.
The painting is being done by a number of volunteers — both adults and children.
Artists for the project, so far, have included Ellie Blake Dixon, Keagan Moore, Morgan Rowe and Griffin Boyett.
Hadaway says the fire hydrant painting projects take about an hour and a half to complete.
“We start by bleaching and washing down the hydrant and then we decide on the design and begin painting,” she said.
Hadaway confesses there is no “rhyme or reason” to the designs.
Some of the items painted on the hydrants to date include citrus designs and a gumball machine.
Members of the city council requested a Georgia Bulldog motif, but that one hasn’t been undertaken, yet.
“We have plans for some in more obvious places that directly relate to Patterson and we will be looking for more skilled artists for these designs,” said Hadaway.
Hadaway says more skilled artists are needed for the project.
“Anyone interested in helping out can call us at city hall at (912) 647-5776,” she said.
One colorful hydrant is painted up to resemble a gumball machine.
