Title
Artist Contract for 55th Avenue Promenade Public Art Project (Ordinance S-50281)
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to enter into a contract with Creative Machines for an amount not to exceed $300,000 for the design, fabrication, and installation of four art structures along 55th Avenue between Camelback and Indian School roads. Further request authorization for the City Controller to disburse all funds related to this item.
Summary
The Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-28 Public Art Plan includes funding for artwork identified as Shade, Cooling, and Heat Mitigation. In collaboration with the Parks and Recreation and Street Transportation departments, the 55th Avenue Promenade has been identified as the location for this initiative. Artwork will be located within the median greenspace along 55th Avenue, between Camelback and Indian School roads in District 5. The artwork will be made of durable materials that can survive the desert climate, include shade elements supporting the City of Phoenix Cool Corridors Initiative, and enhance the pedestrian experience of this unique neighborhood amenity.
After reviewing a pool of 144 applicants, a three-person panel recommended Creative Machines as the selected artist for the project. Creative Machines was recommended based on his experience creating site-specific public art projects and demonstrated ability to involve the community meaningfully. Community engagement is at the center of public art projects when approved. The artist will work with the nearby neighborhood, schools, and community members on the project’s design.
The selection panel included Leticia Castro, John F. Long Elementary School Principal; Andrea Ramirez, District 5 resident; Victoria Sajadi, Public Art Coordinator, Scottsdale Arts.
Financial Impact
The 55th Avenue Promenade public art project, under the title of Shade, Cooling, and Heat Mitigation, is one of 42 projects in the FY 2023-28 Public Art Plan that the City Council approved on July 3, 2023. The proposed $300,000 budget will cover all costs related to the artwork's design, fabrication, and installation. Additional funding in the Plan for this project covers staff time, contingency, and administrative costs. Funding is available in the Public Art Program using Arizona Highway User Revenue funds and Water funds.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
The Phoenix Arts and Culture Commission reviewed and recommended approval of this item on Sept. 12, 2023, by a vote of 12-0 and one abstention. The Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee reviewed and approved this item by a 4-0 vote at its October 11, 2023 meeting.
Location
55th Avenue between Camelback and Indian School roads
Council District: 5
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Inger Erickson and the Office of Arts and Culture.