Submitted by Whatcom Transportation Authority
Last year, WTA hosted a Kids Art Bus Contest, as part of the City of Bellingham’s Climate Action Week. Kids could participate in one of two ways: by attending our event at the Bellingham Farmers Market, or through their participating Fourth Grade Classrooms.
WTA received over 200 original works of art! All came from Whatcom County kids in the fourth grade or younger. A team of three judges reviewed each drawing anonymously. They selected 54 for their expressiveness, their creativity, and their ability to bring a smile. These 54 were then enlarged, printed on vinyl, and installed on three new WTA buses. Bellingham’s Special-T performed the installation. Their two-person crew finished all three buses in a couple of days.
In November, WTA hosted an outdoor Open House, so the artists and their families could be the first to see their buses. It was held in a large parking lot and visiting times were staggered to allow for social distancing. Below is a short video of kids’ reactions to seeing their “larger than life” creations, as well as some highlights from the installation.
Once they enter service in early 2021, these buses can be seen on routes throughout our service area. This includes all of Whatcom County and on I-5 between Bellingham and Mount Vernon. Watch for them, on a route near you!
WTA provides fixed route, paratransit, rural dial-a-ride, and vanpool service in Whatcom County, Washington. WTA’s mission is to enhance our community by delivering safe, reliable, efficient and friendly service. For route and schedule information, call (360) 676-7433 or visit www.ridewta.com.
