What are these letters popping up all over Milwaukee? City leaders say the symbols tell you about your water

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A giant letter "L" was installed in the Lindsay Heights neighborhood on Tuesday, Nov. 12. It's one of six WaterMarkers in the city of Milwaukee. 

WaterMarkers show an illuminated blue letter, chosen by members of the community, in multiple spots in Milwaukee when a Water Drop Alert is issued by the Metropolitain Milwaukee Sewerage District (MMSD). It's meant to remind people to reduce water use before heavy rain. 

Katie Avila Loughmiller, the WaterMarks manager for programs & engagement, said the WaterMarks represent more than just the message about water in the city. She said after a decade of bringing together artists, scientists, and community members, WaterMarks help residents better understand their relationships with the water systems and infrastructure that sustain their lives. 

“When I see these, I know this means the community came together with artists and scientists and residents to talk about water and the water issues in their neighborhood, and the city at large," said Loughmiller. 

The residents of Lindsay Heights selected the "L" for their WaterMarker to represent, "love loyalty, and resilience," within the community, according to leaders with WaterMarks. 

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson joined leaders with MMSD at the celebration and remarks on Tuesday, declaring the day as WaterMarks Day.

“Water really touches everybody in this city," Mayor Johnson said.

“It’s a great effort to really engage the neighborhood in what we all want to do, which is to protect the environment," said Kevin Shader, the executive director of MMSD. 

In October 2024, WaterMarks installed five WaterMarks, and five more are on the way. More details on their exact locations are available on their website. 

WaterMarks is funded by a National Science Foundation grant, which is managed through a partnership between City as Living Laboratory, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI).