The project, called Neon Alley, will convert a walkway connecting a public parking area to the Plumas Street shopping district into an outdoor gallery. Photo courtesy of Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture 

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture will transform an alley along Plumas Street into a public art corridor featuring murals, restored neon signs and interactive displays.

The project, called Neon Alley, will convert a walkway connecting a public parking area to the Plumas Street shopping district into an outdoor gallery. Funding comes from a grant through the National Endowment for the Arts.

Organizers said the installation will center on vintage neon signs from former local businesses. Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture already holds signs once displayed near the Sutter Theater, including those from The Spur and the Town Pump.

“This project literally brings history to light,” Read said. “By blending nostalgia with contemporary design, we are preserving the spirit of Yuba City while creating a space for residents and visitors to visit.”

The group is seeking additional historic signs from the community. Residents with old signage are asked to call 530-742-2787 or email [email protected].

The alley will also feature large-scale murals enhanced with LED lighting and UV-reactive paint designed to shift in appearance after dark. QR codes placed throughout the space will link visitors to background information on each sign and mural.

Neon Alley builds on recent mural work completed in 2024 at the Sutter Theater Center for the Arts. Organizers said the combined efforts aim to strengthen Plumas Street as a cultural corridor.

Project leaders expect the installation to support nearby businesses by increasing foot traffic and drawing visitors to the downtown area. Its location near schools may also provide daily exposure to public art for students.

Design and installation are expected to begin in late spring. Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture plans to announce opportunities for artists and community participation in the coming weeks.

The nonprofit serves as the local affiliate of the California Arts Council and provides arts programming and cultural events across Yuba and Sutter counties.

More information is available at www.yubasutterarts.org.