Public Art Commission Seeks Design Proposals

The City of Salida Public Art Commission has issued a Request for Design Proposal (RFP) for a major new public art project.

The design project in question is the site-specific renovation/conversion of a 5,578-square-foot City-owned property into an artful community space celebrating Salida’s diverse character and heritage. The space will showcase a major new work or works of art, and incorporate landscaping and public viewing considerations.

The project location is at the corner of US Highway 291 (W 1st Street) and G Street, at the entrance to the downtown business sector and the Creative Arts District. Currently, the site is designed and used as a recreational skate park, including concrete ramps and bowls traditionally associated with such facilities.

The space under consideration is bounded by G Street on the east; W. First Street on the north; the Monarch Spur Trail on the west; and parking facilities on the south. The site currently is mostly covered in concrete, with several deep bowls used by skateboarders. There is a small building on the site that may be retained or not, at the designer’s recommendation.

Desired characteristics for the renovated space should possess these qualities: landmark stature, visually inviting, beautiful yet durable, year-round access and use, and preserving the town’s heritage.

Design Proposals should include several specific elements (outlined in the RFP) as well as the proposer’s qualifications and preliminary renovation budget.

Complete requirements and details about the project may be found online by going to cityofsalida.com/bc-pac and clicking on “Design Services Request for Proposals”.

This is a paid design project; and the chosen design Proposal will receive significant compensation from the City of Salida.

Deadline for receipt of Proposals is 2 PM on July 19. 2021. Three hard copies and one digital copy of Proposal should be submitted to: City of Salida Public Art Commission, 448 E. First St., Salida CO 81201, Attn: Michael Varnum, Arts and Culture Director.

Questions regarding the Request for Proposals must be in writing and emailed to Michael Varnum at pac@cityofsalida.com. (Applicants are directed not to contact any other person with inquiries regarding this RFP.)

Dan R
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