The Fruita Roundabouts

In August of 2020 the final four sculptures of a total of six sculptures were installed on the Hwy 340 Roundabouts project here in Fruita. We are thrilled for this project to be complete as it has been several years in the making. The project was a direct result of the fundraising efforts of the Fruita Arts and Culture Board. Thank you to local artist Jeff Bates for creating the sculptures and every individual and business that donated to the project. All of the sculptures were paid for with private donations. Thank you to everyone who helped this long-envisioned dream become a reality!

The artwork showcases some of what Frutia is about. The southernmost roundabout, the “Agricultural Scene” which represents the City of Fruita’s rich agricultural heritage - features a cowboy rider, an apple tree and a tractor. In the northern roundabout, the “Recreation Scene” - a cyclist, hiker and kayaker are all nestled amongst natural boulders. This project is the “Gateway to Colorado” via I-70 and is often the first impression for visitors entering Mesa County.

In 2012, the Fruita City Council identified the need to develop the full potential of a strong downtown as a top priority and worked towards a conceptual master plan for downtown streetscape improvements that was adopted in late 2013. The creation of this downtown master plan included the involvement of numerous businesses, residents, and community groups, and summarized the vision for how the streetscape and public spaces in the downtown area might develop. The downtown streetscape improvement master plan included a framework plan that briefly addressed the need for creating defined gateways and better entry experiences from Interstate 70 and US 6/50 to the historic downtown area. It suggested the apparent and inviting use of high-quality bridge design, directional signage, enhanced landscaping, and sculptural elements.

In 2016 a Conceptual Design for Gateway Enhancement and Wayfinding Study was conducted ss an outgrowth of the framework plan developed in 2013. The Fruita Roundabout Project was just one phase of the multifaceted Gateway Enhancement and Wayfinding Study.

Under the leadership of the late Bill Holstien who was the chair of the Arts and Culture Board, The Arts and Culture Board took on the onus of fundraising for the artwork in the roundabouts by hosting an Annual Art Stroll and Gala. The Arts and Culture Board collected over $30,000 to kickstart the project. In 2018, the City of Fruita identified improvements to the roundabouts as a Capital Project and to cover the landscaping portion of the project. The Arts and Culture Board hit the ground running to raise the additional funds needed for the Artwork and did so through a direct ask campaign as well as an online campaign. After only a few short months, they raised enough money for all 6 sculptures.

We would like to thank our donors: The Fruita Arts and Culture Board, Family Health West, Dr. Michael Neste, Alpine Bank, Chesnick Realty, Timberline Bank, Kokopelli Animal Hospital, Lois and Edward Gardner, Bookcliff Gardens, Fruita Thrift Shop, FCI Constructors, Inc., Robinson and CO Realty, Donna Stratton, CC Enterprises, Sterling Crane, Happy Trails Colorado, The Holstein Memorial Fund