UTICA – Nearly a hundred new banners are set to be installed throughout the city of Utica.

The designs for the 96 banners were unveiled Wednesday by Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri, John Vella of Utica Sign and Graphics, and local artist Maria Vallese of Retro Sorrento, who designed the banners.

Beginning next week, the banners will be installed on utility and light poles along Genesee Street, the Parkway, Burrstone Road and other main thoroughfares throughout the city.

“It's really rewarding seeing my artwork and all of the hard work that's gone into it over the last 10 years or so,” Vallese said. “I'm loving that people are also loving it and … the response is positive. I'm glad that the city chose to work with me because I have always thought the brighter colors and a little bit more of a fun illustration would do well up on the banners.”

The banners are meant to add vibrancy to the main parts of the city while also promoting local businesses. The new banners are being put up through the Community Banner Program, with is a partnership with CGI Communications and Community Showcase Banners.

“We wanted to create banners that captures and promotes our city’s unique identity,” Mayor Palmieri said. “By collaborating with Maria Vallese, a talented local artist, we were able to achieve this goal. I thank Maria for her passion and dedication to this project.”