Imagine Alley
Where Art, Community, and Downtown Come Alive
Discover the story of Angola’s most creative public space — built by our community, for our community — and how a T-Mobile Hometown Grant is helping us take it to the next level.
A Vision Takes Shape – The History of Imagine Alley: From Empty Alleyway to Vibrant Gathering Space
Imagine Alley began as a dream by two Angola High School students, Teryn Stanley and Brooklynn Shively, who envisioned turning a quiet, underutilized downtown alley into a welcoming and creative space for everyone to enjoy.
Working with Angola Main Street, local artists, and the City of Angola, their idea quickly gained support. Through community partnerships and grassroots fundraising, the space transformed into a lively corridor featuring:
- Murals by local artists and organizations
- Custom-built furniture created by Trine University students
- Rotating art frames for fresh displays
- Greenery and plant installations to bring life and color
- Inviting seating and gathering spots for people to relax and connect
Imagine Alley opened as a symbol of what happens when creativity, collaboration, and community pride come together.
Imagine Alley opens in Angola | Heraldrepublican | kpcnews.com
Imagine Alley comes to Angola | Aim
A Community Space with a Purpose: A Place to Create, Connect, and Celebrate
Imagine Alley isn’t just a walkway — it’s a destination. Residents and visitors alike use it for:
- Casual meet-ups and conversation
- Photo sessions and backdrops for local businesses, families, and events
- Showcasing local art and talent through rotating displays
- Small performances, art shows, and gatherings
It has become a downtown highlight, drawing foot traffic to nearby businesses and inspiring other creative placemaking projects across Angola.
We all RISE in this alley | Heraldrepublican | kpcnews.com
The Next Chapter – Powered by T-Mobile: Enhancing the Alley Through the T-Mobile Hometown Grant
In 2025, Angola was selected as a recipient of the T-Mobile Hometown Grant, securing $50,000 to enhance Imagine Alley even further. This funding will allow us to:
- Commission a vibrant new mural celebrating kindness and inclusivity
- Upgrade infrastructure with additional seating, lighting, and landscaping
- Expand opportunities for community programming and events
The project is a partnership between Angola Main Street, the City of Angola, Easterseals RISE, and Relic Emporium, showcasing how local organizations can work together to create lasting impact.
This expansion ensures that Imagine Alley continues to grow as a place where everyone feels welcome — a true reflection of our diverse and caring community.
Angola Main Street wins $50,000 grant to improve Imagination Alley | Heraldrepublican | kpcnews.com
Public Art in Angola- Steuben County Tourism Bureau
Community Impact: Why It Matters
Imagine Alley has already made a difference in Downtown Angola by:
- Boosting economic vitality through increased foot traffic to local shops and restaurants
- Providing a public space for local artists and organizations to showcase their work
- Creating a welcoming, inclusive space for residents and visitors of all ages
- Strengthening community pride and a shared sense of place
The enhancements made possible by the T-Mobile grant will amplify these benefits and ensure the alley remains a beloved downtown destination for years to come.
Get Involved: Help Shape the Future of Imagine Alley
There are many ways to support Imagine Alley and the downtown community:
- Volunteer: Join us for cleanup days or installation events.
- Donate: Contributions help us maintain and expand the space.
- Share Your Talent: Are you an artist? Apply to feature your work in the rotating frames.
- Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates on the mural unveiling and upcoming events.
Thank you to our partners: City of Angola, Easterseals RISE, Relic Emporium, T-Mobile and of course the local businesses, volunteers, and supporters. Below is a slideshow of pictures of Imagine Alley from it’s conception through recent additions made possible via grant funds:
