Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst
Title
SUBJECT: Commission to Review and Approve Utility Box Refresh Project
REPORT IN BRIEF
Review and approve the Utility Box Refresh Project as one of the 2024/25 City Council sponsored art projects.
RECOMMENDATION
Arts and Culture Commission - Adopt a motion approving the Utility Box Refresh Project as one of the 2024/25 City Council sponsored art projects.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommend by Staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by Staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to Staff for reconsideration of specific items; or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission Ordinance #2489, Section 2.54.060 Jurisdiction of the Commission
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2024-25 Council Goals and Priorities: Public Works & City Beautification.
DISCUSSION
As part of the 2024/25 Budget, the City Council allocated $100,000 for art installations across Merced. The Arts and Culture Arts Project Subcommittee has recommended the Utility Box Refresh Project as a key initiative for these funds.
The Subcommittee suggests issuing a Call for Art Projects RFQ for the Utility Box Refresh Project, designating it as one of the City Council’s sponsored art projects for 2024/25. The refresh project will include up to 15 utility boxes, with each box receiving a $1000 budget totaling $15,000. Artists will be responsible for prepping their designated utility box, which includes removing the existing mural and items per Public Works guidelines.
The utility boxes will be themed as follows:
16th Street:
The theme will be inspired by travel and transportation, drawing on elements like the railway and the nostalgic feel of old Highway 99-reflecting how we want to welcome travelers as they enter our community.
• V and 16th Street
• R and 16th Street
• O and 16th Street
• M and 16th Street
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, and 16th Street
Main Street:
The theme, "The Heart of Merced," will capture the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and forward-thinking spirit. Artists are encouraged to incorporate elements like cityscapes, nightlife, shopping, music, art, and designs that embody the energy of the downtown community.
• N and West Main
• M and West Main
• Canal and West Main
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Way, and West Main
18th Street:
This theme will reflect the city's history and growth, honoring its historic homes and neighborhoods. Designs may draw inspiration from stained glass windows, architectural blueprints, landscaping and gardens, portraits of early residents, neighborhood gatherings, community gardens, tree-lined streets, children at play, and streetlights.
• R and W 18th
• M and W 18th
• Canal & W 18th
• G & W 18th
R and Bear Creek:
The theme will focus on Bear Creek and Applegate Zoo, celebrating the natural beauty in the area. Images that capture native plants and animals active to the area and images that tribute to the area around the creek.
Once the commission reviews and approves the project, it will be presented to the City Council for final approval.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
None at this time
ATTACHMENTS
None