WASHINGTON BOROUGH, N.J. (Warren County) — A colorful new mural has been completed on the Railroad Avenue arch bridge at Route 57 in Washington Borough, marking the culmination of a community-led project that took nearly three years to bring to life.
The mural, located at the intersection of Railroad Avenue and Route 57 in the borough’s downtown area, was funded and organized by Conscious Community Creations Inc. (CCCNJ), a nonprofit organization focused on revitalizing and beautifying small towns through public art.
The project began in 2023 when organizers started pursuing approvals to paint the bridge structure. The effort required multiple applications and revisions before receiving final authorization from Norfolk Southern. Support was also provided by the Washington Borough Council, which passed a resolution backing the project, as well as offices of state Sen. Doug Steinhardt and U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr.
According to organizers, Norfolk Southern ultimately approved the project and waived a $1,600 application fee associated with the approval process.
The completed mural reflects both Washington Borough’s history and natural beauty. Featured elements include references to the historic Cornish Organ Factory, the Morris Canal, the Karen Nash Butterfly Garden and poppies honoring military veterans who lost their lives in service.
The artwork was created by artist Sitki Dogan, who was selected through a request-for-proposals process approximately 2½ years ago. Originally from Turkey, Dogan now lives in Florida with his family.
Organizers said Dogan’s design was chosen because it captured the themes of local history, community pride and nature that residents wanted represented on the bridge.
Conscious Community Creations said its mission is to strengthen communities through public art projects that celebrate local identity while enhancing public spaces.
Additional information about the organization and its projects is available at CCCNJ1.org.
