This week, the Capital Market and the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Council met with the Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department (CHVFD) Board to kick off conversations about the possibilities of hosting a mural or art activations at the fire station.
The conversation is part of the Blue Line Corridor Placemaking Initiative, which will bring three new murals to the inner-beltway municipalities of Seat Pleasant, Capitol Heights, and Fairmount Heights.
The Capitol Heights Volunteer Fire Department has been protecting and serving this community for more than 100 years. But their role in town life goes beyond fire and emergency response. Board members carry a deep knowledge of local history, recalling when Central Avenue was the heart of the neighborhood, bustling with a movie theater, taverns, and small businesses. These stories remind us that Capitol Heights has always been a place of resilience and creativity.
The upcoming murals will build on that legacy. Each piece of public art will celebrate its community’s unique stories, culture, and heritage—honoring local history and progress while also envisioning future aspirations. More than decoration, these murals are designed to serve as lasting landmarks, places that spark pride and belonging for residents and visitors alike.
As part of the project, The Capital Market is helping to gather and preserve community stories so that the art reflects the lived experiences of those who call Capitol Heights home. Residents will be invited to share their own memories and perspectives, ensuring the work is rooted in authenticity. The Fire Department’s long history and firsthand knowledge will be an important guide in shaping the creative vision.
With support from the Prince George’s Arts and Humanities Commission, this collaboration is a true act of placekeeping. It honors the past, strengthens community connections in the present, and looks ahead to a vibrant future for Capitol Heights and the entire Blue Line Corridor.
