The Free Expression Tunnel is an ever-changing artistic tapestry. Constantly expanded and altered by students of every major and year, the tunnel has become one of the University’s defining features and a true representation of the diverse student body.

The tunnel first opened in 1939 as part of the Public Works Administration project. At the time, it was only used as a service tunnel to connect North and Central Campus, which are separated by railroad tracks.

The tunnel was first painted in the late 1960s. The University was experiencing trouble with illegal graffiti around campus, and the tunnel was promoted as a place students could graffiti without worry of prosecution.

Since the Free Expression Tunnel was first painted, the site has become a popular means for students to express themselves in a myriad of ways. Clubs and organizations use the tunnel as a means of advertising upcoming meetings or events in a creative or colorful way.

The tunnel is also used as a way for students to express opinions on national issues and events. In the past, murals relating to Black History Month and Valentine’s Day have been painted in February, and this February will be no different.

A wide range of other topics have been featured as well, ranging from celebratory paintings for Wolfpack team victories to expressions of political opinion during election years. Other students may simply desire to try their luck at being creative for the sake of it.

Melissa Dalena, a sophomore in animal science, said the tunnel remains an important part of the N.C. State experience because of the school spirit it inspires.

“The Free Expression Tunnel is a great source of communication on campus,” Dalena said, “and at times is a wonderful way to celebrate Pack pride.”

Throughout the year, every inch of space in the tunnel is available for potential creativity. The walls, ceiling and floor are all available for students to spread their messages.

Tom Stafford, vice chancellor for student affairs, shared what he feels makes the Free Expression Tunnel such an enduring and important part of the University’s history.

“It gives anybody — primarily the students — a chance to display any message they want,” Stafford said. “It gives organizations a chance to advertise events. It’s a fairly unique way for N.C. State to offer a method of free speech to its students.

The Free Expression Tunnel has received criticism for controversial messages painted on its walls. In both 2008 and 2010, racially-charged illustrations directed at President Barack Obama have brought the tunnel under fire.

In the October 2010 incident, several students painted the tunnel black and prohibited others from passing through. Their goal was to make sure students appreciated the tunnel and what it should represent.

Luke Blackwood, a sophomore in computer engineering, said the tunnel needs the moderation these students were seeking out.

“The tunnel is an interesting thing,” Blackwood said, “but it can be risky. It needs moderation, just like any other forum, or you run the risk of more controversies in the future.”

Other students, such as Dalena, said the tunnel is fine remaining as an open forum.

“I think the tunnel does more good than bad,” Dalena said, “and should remain a distinguishing landmark on campus.”

Regardless of recent controversy, the 40-plus years of creativity and passion put into the Free Expression Tunnel certainly place it as one of the most important landmarks of N.C. State,  one many students will graduate with fond memories of. Hopefully, it will continue to provide a forum of free speech and communication among the student body for years to come.