Title
Report on Art in Private Development Research and Ordinance Framework
Description
This report provides information to the Economic Development and the Arts Subcommittee on research, stakeholder feedback, and program structure for an Art in Private Development ordinance. The Subcommittee may provide direction to staff on program structure, ordinance language, and/or stakeholder engagement strategies.
THIS ITEM IS FOR INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
Since its establishment in 1986, the City of Phoenix Public Art Program, managed by the Office of the Arts and Culture, has served as a national model for engaging artists in designing and building a better city. The program is funded through an ordinance that allocates one percent of the City's annual Capital Improvement Program to public art projects integrated into a wide range of public buildings, spaces, and City infrastructure.
In addition, the private sector has bolstered its investment in the arts community by commissioning murals, incorporating sculpture and architectural enhancements into development projects, and creating vibrant environments that attract businesses, thereby boosting local economies. Regions with thriving arts and culture ecosystems consistently outperform peer markets in attracting and retaining talent and companies.
This report is in follow up to the Art in Private Development presentation shared with the Subcommittee in October 2025. Since then, staff hosted several listening sessions with various stakeholders, conducted additional research with assistance from Bloomberg Associates and their contracted attorney, and spoke with leadership from the Community and Economic Development and Planning and Development departments, with the goal of developing an Art in Private Development ordinance for the City of Phoenix.
Stakeholders engaged to date:
- Mayor and City Councilmembers.
- Artlink Artist Council (local artists).
- Valley Partnership.
- Individual developers (Sharon Harper, Kyle Jardine, Trevor Barger).
- Sarah Conely Odenkirk, attorney (AIPD expertise).
- Phoenix Community Alliance - Arts, Culture, and Public Life Committee.
- Community and Economic Development Department leadership.
- Planning and Development Department leadership.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Frank McCune and the Office of Arts and Culture.