Q1. Does a mural attract more foot traffic?
The weekend foot traffic in mural areas is nearly three times higher than in non-mural areas when controlling for other factors such as commerce, mixed use, and pedestrian quality. For example, when optional amenities like cafes and restaurants are present, the daily average foot traffic in mural areas (2,921) is 43% higher than in non-mural areas (2,042).

Interestingly, having independent stores (fewer than 50% chain stores) and walkable streets (with no degrading factors like gas stations or car repair shops) is even more critical for increasing the difference in foot traffic between mural and non-mural areas.

Q2. What types of amenities are located near murals?
We find that mural blocks are significantly correlated with the presence of art galleries, performing theaters, food-serving amenities like coffee shops, bars, and restaurants, as well as transit stops.

Q3. How is the mural related to socio-demographic conditions?
In Cincinnati, housing density in mural blocks is on average 34% higher than in non-mural blocks. Alternative commuting in mural blocks is also 62% higher than in non-mural blocks. Interestingly, while the gross median rent is higher in mural blocks, the income is lower compared to non-mural blocks as of 2020.

Q4. How does a mural impact violent crime?
Mural installations are correlated with a decrease in violent crime, but this effect is observed only in commercial or mixed-use blocks. Interestingly, pedestrian quality alone does not show a positive impact on reducing crime. In summary, proximity to commercial amenities and a mix of buildings and small businesses around murals is crucial for reducing violent crime, which indicates the long-term vitality of the street.

Q5. Do art establishments lead to the growth of certain commercial amenities?
Our regression analysis shows that art establishments, such as galleries, museums, theaters, and independent artists, are associated with the growth of Third Places, such as cafes, bookstores, and barbershops, in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Cincinnati, and Portland.