From Storm Drain to Landmark: The Joyful Journey of Merriam's Dice

How a Storm Drain Became a Local Artwork and Tourist Attraction

As you cruise down Shawnee Mission Parkway in Merriam, Kansas, your eyes may catch something rather unusual: a set of oversized, colorful dice seemingly tumbling out of a storm drain. This whimsical sight isn't just a sculptural novelty; it serves a crucial purpose while bringing joy to local commuters. The creation of these artistic dice reflects the spirit of community engagement and creative thinking that blossomed during challenging times.

A Creative Spark During Difficult Times

Former city administrator Phil Lammers, who served from 2008 to 2016, was the mastermind behind this local landmark. In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many felt a sense of gloom and stagnation, Lammers saw an opportunity to uplift spirits. After years of passing uninspiring concrete blocks intended for erosion control, he decided it was time to transform them into something playful and engaging.

“It was about 2020, and it felt like everyone was depressed,” Lammers recalls. With a nudge from city colleagues who supported his idea, he molded his sketches into reality despite it being an 'ask for forgiveness, don't ask for permission' venture.

The Evolution of the Dice: From Idea to Reality

The original installation featured a 96-gallon barrel tipped on its side supporting a kinetic die. Although this temporary setup had a short life span due to harsh weather, it succeeded in generating smiles. When the city requested Lammers to bring back the art installation, he opted for a durable design: five painted concrete cubes arranged as if they’re rolling out of the drain with a vibrant sunburst framing the discharge pipe.

Now, this installation not only adds charm to the roadside but fulfills its original purpose of managing stormwater runoff, showcasing how art can intertwine with infrastructure. It’s this blend of functionality and delight that has caught the attention of local residents and tourists alike, with Google Maps listing the site as a must-see attraction.

Benefits Beyond Aesthetics

Public art installations such as the dice highlight that aesthetic considerations can elevate public works. Lammers emphasizes that future public works projects should incorporate artistic elements as part of their design. “There are opportunities to introduce interesting pieces when doing these projects,” he advocates, mirroring similar initiatives across the country.

For example, in Tampa, local artists are beautifying storm drains with designs emphasizing environmental messages, like “Only Rain Down the Drain.” The goal is not only to educate but also to engage the community in recognizing the connection between their actions and water quality. Such initiatives remind us that infrastructure can serve dual purposes, beautifying neighborhoods while educating residents.

Creating Connection and Joy

The ongoing success of the dice installation reveals the value of community engagement. As Lammers puts it, “I just wanted to make people smile.” Reviews like “these keep people sane on rough drives” echo the importance of creating joy in everyday experiences.

As Merriam embraces this quirky landmark, local businesses have also reaped its benefits. How about grabbing a bite to eat near the iconic installation? For those searching for tasty options nearby, visitors can find family-friendly restaurants, engaging BBQ joints, and delightful outdoor dining spots that Kansas City is renowned for. With the dice serving as a whimsical landmark, why not turn your visit into a culinary adventure and explore the best restaurants in Kansas City?

The Future of Merriam’s Iconic Dice

Phil Lammers isn’t stopping here. He hints at a potential third iteration of the dice, wanting to restore elements from the original concept with the help of his artist nephew. With each creative twist, the local landmark continues to evolve, reflecting the changing needs and preferences of Merriam’s residents.

As the community reflects on the significance of such projects, it’s clear that local culture thrives on innovation and togetherness. So, whether you're passing through or are a local, take a moment to appreciate the playful charm of the dice in the storm drain—they’re more than just art; they’re a beacon of community spirit.

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