Title
Artists' Contracts for Western Canalscape Public Art Project (Ordinance S-50064)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into contracts with artists Hector Ortega (AZ) and Ken McCall (ID) for an amount not to exceed $150,000 to purchase and install two artworks as part of the Western Canalscape Public Art Project near South 20th Street. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
Report
Summary
The Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-27 Public Art Plan includes a project to integrate public art into the Western Canalscape Improvement Project from 4th Avenue to 24th Street. The project enhances the pedestrian and bicycle trail, including concrete pathways, safe street crossing facilities, and improved neighborhood access points.
On May 22, 2023, a selection committee identified two finalists from a pool of 48 artworks submitted by 15 artists who had responded to a City-issued Request for Qualifications. The artworks were selected based on artistic quality, the appropriateness of the artwork for a public setting, the durability of the materials, and the ability of the two artworks to complement each other and enhance the canalscape design.
The selection committee included: Roc Welch, a community member; Cheryle Marine, a Public Art Specialist, Valley Metro; and Paul NjiRaini, Roadway Safety Project Manager, City of Phoenix Street Transportation Department.
Financial Impact
The Western Canalscape Public Art Project is one of 39 projects in the FY 2022-27 Public Art Plan that the City Council approved on June 15, 2022. The Plan includes $315,000 for this project. The proposed $150,000 budget will cover all costs related to the artwork’s purchase and delivery, site preparation, and installation coordination. The percent-for-art funds for this project come from Water Capital Funds.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
The Phoenix Arts and Culture Commission reviewed and recommended this item for approval on June 13, 2023, by a vote of 8-0-1.
Location
South 20th Street
Council Districts: 7 and 8
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Inger Erickson and the Office of Arts and Culture.