New Greenway Art Installation Chronicles Smithfield Flood History

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – A new public art installation along the Buffalo Creek Greenway is using historic Neuse River flood levels to tell the story of some of Smithfield’s most significant flooding events.

“Rising Crests,” created by artist Magen Pike, features a series of horizontal lines representing water levels from 13 major flood events that have affected Smithfield and the surrounding area.

The installation is located along the Buffalo Creek Greenway near the Neuse River Amphitheater.

Among the floods represented are Hurricane Fran in 1996, Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Florence in 2018.

The highest line marks the Neuse River’s record 29.1-foot crest during Hurricane Matthew.

Rather than a traditional mural, the artwork combines historical flood data with colors inspired by the local landscape. Earth tones represent area soils and river sediments, while blue horizontal lines show historic Neuse River water levels.

The flood lines were scaled for the artwork using historical data from the National Water Prediction Service.

An interpretive sign near the installation identifies the various flood levels and provides information about the storms and weather events associated with them. QR codes allow visitors to access additional information.

“Rising Crests is a unique way to tell a part of Smithfield’s story that has shaped our community for generations,” said Pamela Yelle, chairperson of the Smithfield Appearance Commission. “It combines art with our history and gives people using the Greenway an opportunity to see just how significant these flood events have been over the years.”

The project was coordinated by the Smithfield Appearance Commission with support from the Town of Smithfield.