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A Look At Artist Chakaia Booker's Garment District Art Installation

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- They could have ended up in a landfill, but instead, thousands of recycled rubber tires and rims are adorning Broadway in the name of green art.

As CBS 2's Jennifer McLogan reported, the finishing touches are now in place as Broadway was suddenly filled with more than 5 tons of robber and steel from old tires.

"That's the great part of New York is taking a walk and stumbling into something like this," said Gerald Scupp, with the Garment District Alliance.

McLogan got a sneak peek of the colossal sculptures that will be unveiled Thursday by iconic New York-based artist Chakaia Booker, whose original works are towering over amazed pedestrians on Broadway's Garment District plazas.

"We're always looking at cement, so it's nice to see some art, especially recycled rubber. What a great thing to do," said Jamie Pearl.

A group of five rubber outdoor sculptures that are sturdy enough to withstand strong storms are piquing curiosity and conversation among passersby.

"It's creative and beautiful," one woman said.

The sculptures are free art displayed among tables and chairs between 36th and 39th streets just north of Herald Square.

"It's just been a great reaction to come out here and to see people enjoying the - and just having the greenery, and now the art work, it's just a really exciting place," Scupp said.

There will be a public dedication and ceremony with artist Chakaia Booker on Thursday at 10 a.m. All are invited.

The annual Garment District Summer Public Art Series will be captivating audiences until November.

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