Toyota has paid for a plot on I-280 as part of a pilot beautification project, which includes eight other California roads. The 53 x 26-ft. floral mosaic on a hillside adjacent to I-280 forms the shape of a Prius. In return for picking up installation and maintenance costs for the landscaping efforts, Toyota gets a small Adopt-A-Highway-like sign that says "Toyota."
The Mercury News reported that the I-280 design, which comprises pansies, marigolds and alyssum, shows an orange car, which resembles a hybrid Prius, rolling over a blue bridge that connects two green hills.
Greenroad Media, which oversees the program and grows the plants in its nursery, has also contacted Apple and IBM for potential sponsorship.
Toyoto’s sponsorship began two years ago, before the recent acceleration/brake problems arose.
Commuters report they find it difficult to perceive what image the flowers form as they pass, but they find the colors to be a welcome sight.
The plots must have the proper sun exposure and the right tilt, and be at least a mile apart.