DeKalb’s popular public arts program in which community members turn fire hydrants into  works of art is returning for another year. 

The City and its Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) is now  accepting applications for Paint-A-Plug projects for 2024. 

Beginning in 2018, the Paint-A-Plug program has beautified the City by inspiring the  creation of colorful artwork throughout the community. Last year, nine Paint-A-Plugs were  created with various designs, including the Tyler Tigers mascot near Tyler Elementary  School, a sundae near DeKalb High School and three Paint-A-Plugs near the NIU campus 

created by NIU students. 

There is no specific theme for the fire hydrants, but artists are encouraged to submit  designs promoting a welcoming community while incorporating different elements of the City or their neighborhood into their art. 

“Paint-A-Plug is truly a public art initiative in that everyone in the community and beyond  has the opportunity to participate,” said CCEC Chair Brad Hoey. “The program’s  popularity continues to grow, and the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission is  looking forward to seeing the creativity and artistry of our neighbors on display throughout  the City.”  

Paint-A-Plug is not limited to only DeKalb residents. The CCEC encourages NIU students  and alumni, DeKalb School District students and faculty, employees of DeKalb  businesses and area artists to participate. While no fee is required to participate in the  Paint-A-Plug program, approved artists are responsible for providing their own materials  for painting.

Applications can be found at cityofdekalb.com/paintaplug. Submitted applications will be  reviewed by the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission, and once their design  is approved, artists will have until November 1, 2024, to paint their hydrant. 

Questions on the program can be e-mailed to paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com. 

Photo caption: Megan Flack created a sundae-themed Paint-A-Plug last year along  Dresser Road near DeKalb High School.