In partnership with the City of Omaha's Public Works Department and their Stormwater Program, Keep Omaha Beautiful commissions local artists to paint murals around select storm drain locations in Omaha. This public art campaign raises awareness about stormwater pollution, and promotes the theme “Healthy Waterways” with eye-catching designs on sidewalks near storm drains.
In October of 2025, this initiative launched with three storm drain mural locations at: 11th and Howard Streets in The Old Market, South 10th and Cass Streets near the CHI Health Center Arena, and 11th and Capitol in the Capitol District.
Preventing Water Pollution
Public storm drain art and related education efforts remind community members that Omaha storm drains flow to local waterways without being filtered or treated first. Polluted stormwater runoff is a leading driver of water quality degradation in our state. KOB's public awareness initiative around storm drains encourages mindfulness about where our water goes, and calls attention to the actions we can all take to keep our waterways healthy.
About the Artists
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Oria Simonini is an artist currently based in Omaha. She was born in French Guiana and grew up in Guatemala. She received her Bachelor of Fine Art from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2018. Oria describes herself as a visual artist, a painter, a muralist, and a community organizer. "I'm excited to be a part of this project that uses art to create awareness of our impact on our waterways' health. It not only makes our shared space more beautiful and activates the space in a unique way, but also is a great reminder that, even in the heart of the city, what goes down the drain goes directly to our rivers. And I love the idea of seeing a mural on the ground!"
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Eduardo Gardea is a suggestive and impressionistic artist whose work bridges personal memory, cultural identity, and collective experience. Born in Texas and raised in Nebraska, Gardea’s self-taught, multidisciplinary practice is rooted in both contemporary art foundations and an intuitive connection to the conscious and unconscious mind. Through painting, sculpture, and mural work, he explores themes of struggle, endurance, and transformation, creating work that invites a shared emotional and visual dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is it safe to install murals around storm drains?
Yes! The contracted professional artists were briefed on how to use concrete-appropriate paint and proper sealant, which helps prevent potential pollution from elements such as paint chips. Many similar organizations around the country have established safe and successful storm drain art programs, including the City of Colorado Springs, Keep Forsyth Beautiful, and more.
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How are the artists selected?
Keep Omaha Beautiful works with nonprofits and artist-collaboration organizations to identify the artists for mural installations.
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Can anyone paint murals at a storm drain?
This project receives special permission from the City of Omaha Stormwater Program, the City of Omaha Public Works Department, and support from organizations within the city. Painting drains without proper approval is not legal.
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Where can I find more information about the art locations?
Check out the map above, and click on a pinned location to learn more about the art and artists.
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How can I get involved?
If you would like to sponsor future storm drain murals, please email Grants@KeepOmahaBeautiful.org for more information.
Program Partners
Special thanks to Park Omaha for providing space during project installation.
