HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-19-2016 Item 07 Consideration of the Proposed Changes to the City's Public Art Policy
Meeting Date: 7/19/2016
FROM: Shelly Stanwyck, Parks and Recreation Director
Prepared By: Melissa C. Mudgett, Parks and Recreation Manager
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF THE PROPOSED CHANGES TO THE CITY’S
PUBLIC ART POLICY
RECOMMENDATION
As recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission, review and approve proposed
changes to the City’s Public Art policies to include an update to the Utility Box Art program
specifying the program’s maintenance, replacement, expansion and archival of box art murals.
DISCUSSION
Background
In March 2015, the City Council approved updates to the City’s Public Art Policy to include the
Utility Box Art pilot program as an ongoing temporary public art project within the City’s Public
Art Program. In December 2015, consistent with the adopted policy for temporary public art,
Council approved funding for the 2016 Box Art Repainting project. While conducting the public
outreach and engagement for the 2016 Box Art Repainting project, the community provided
Council with input and recommended additional amendments to the public art policy for the Box
Art program. These amendments addressed maintenance, duration of mural exhibits, expansion
of the program and archival of the box art murals. In response to Council’s direction received on
February 22, 2016, the Box Art Stakeholders Group was formed to address these community
concerns and propose policy amendments for Council’s consideration. The Parks and Recreation
Commission reviewed the proposed amendments at its May 4, 2016 meeting (Meeting Minutes
provided as Attachment A) and recommended Council adoption of the City’s Public Art Policy
for the Utility Box Art program as proposed.
Utility Box Art Program
Initially conceived as a program to discourage and abate graffiti and to enhance unattractive
utility/traffic signal boxes at various high visibility intersections in the Downtown core, the
Utility Box Art Program received funding from the City Council in 2010 for sixteen downtown
utility boxes. The City, with the support of the San Luis Obispo Downtown Association and Arts
Obispo, initiated the Utility Box Art pilot project as part of the City’s Downtown Maintenance
and Beautification capital project. Widespread popularity of the box art program quickly grew
and enabled the pilot program to expand. A second phase of utility box art was rolled out in
2012, adding seventeen more utility boxes to the program. Currently, the Utility Box Art
Program has thirty-three painted boxes throughout the City (Box Art Map provided as
Attachment B).
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Box Art Stakeholders Group
The Box Art Stakeholders group consists of various City staff, artists and community
organization representatives. The Program Manager for Public Art facilitates the group, and they
met bi-weekly for the past several months to develop program and policy recommendations for
Council’s consideration (the Stakeholder Member list provided as Attachment C).
Summary of Proposed Box Art Program Changes
The purpose of the Temporary Public Art policy for Box Art is to encourage the creative uses of
public art on utility boxes throughout the community based on established guidelines. The
proposed Utility Box Art program modifications include updated policy language identifying
new parameters in support of providing ongoing maintenance and care, guidelines for mural
replacement, expansion of the box mural locations as well as guidelines for the archival of box
art murals that are officially removed from the program. The proposed additions to the Utility
Box Art program are summarized in the table below and are provided in greater detail as
Attachment D with the proposed policy language.
SUMMARY OF PROPOSED BOX ART PROGRAM CHANGES
FOCUS
CURRENT
PROPOSED
BENEFIT OF
ADDITIONAL
LANGUAGE
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance
program not
addressed in
current policy
Proposing both short & long-term
care for the preservation of artwork.
- Short Term: annual box
cleanings
- Longer Term: Contract with
artists for repairs when
needed & re-application of
protective UV coating every
3-5 years
-
Increases the mural "life"
for resident & visitor
enjoyment
DURATION
Duration of box
art murals to be 5
years
“Downtown Core", as defined by the
Downtown Association Map, to
repaint every 3-5 years as funding
permits
Other City locations (outside of
Downtown Core), to repaint every
10 years as funding permits
Repainting as determined by
Evaluation Criteria which includes
an evaluation of time, maintenance
needs, location of box (highly
visible areas) & public engagement
(consideration of public input when
determining mural replacement)
Using the adopted
evaluation criteria allows
flexibility in determining
the "life-span" of the box
art murals & repainting
More frequent rotation of
art in the “Downtown
Core” promotes vibrant
tourism & opportunities
for new emerging artists
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EXPANSION
Expansion of the
box art program not
addressed in
current policy
Expand Box Art to remaining blank
city-owned boxes. The proposed
Box Art expansion will use the
evaluation criteria which includes a
combination of community input,
public exposure, vandalism,
proximity to other public art & city
ownership to determine expansion
Public "voting" for boxes (in
combination w/ other evaluation
criteria) to prioritize remaining
boxes for painting
Seek partnership opportunities to
expand art murals on privately
owned boxes
Promotes public
participation in the art
process
Lays the foundation for
box art program growth
while meeting community
needs
ARCHIVAL
Archival of
artwork not
addressed in
current policy
Preservation of Box Art murals
shall be provided in both print &
electronic formats, in a way that
ensures artwork is accessible to the
public.
(Examples of archival methods
could include books, coloring
pages, postcards, website, database,
relocation of deaccessioned boxes
for continued public display, or
private purchase of signal cabinets
when removed from the box art
program etc.)
Establishes a program
legacy for public art
Program Next Steps
Modified Boxes
The Box Art Stakeholder Group recommends proceeding with program expansion of the art
murals to include the four (4) recently modified traffic signal box locations and the remaining
blank city-owned utility boxes first. The evaluation criteria, as proposed, includes the
consideration of mural replacement with new art when a significant portion of the original
artwork has been modified. Currently, there are four traffic signal box locations that have
received this battery backup unit modification to the front panel of the utility box. The battery
back-up unit is necessary to integrate the boxes into the City’s signal systems and provides a
continued power source in the event of a disruption (such as with a power outage) to prevent the
loss of data and productivity. The recently modified utility box locations (as provided in
Attachment E) have met this proposed replacement criteria and are being recommended for
consideration of new artwork as part of the next box art painting phase.
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Designated Areas
The Box Art Stakeholders group is proposing to designate two specific areas with defined
lifecycles for box art murals; the “Downtown Core” and “Other City Locations.” Box art murals
located within the “Downtown Core” (as identified in the Downtown Association’s Downtown
Boundary Map and provided as Attachment F) would be subject to a more frequent rotation of
artwork every 3-5 years. Box Art murals located outside of the downtown area in “Other City
Locations” would have a longer lifecycle of 10 years. All artwork would be evaluated against
the proposed box art mural replacement criteria which includes a combination of the following:
Community engagement for prioritizing the replacement of art murals
Level of exposure of the box art to pedestrian/vehicle/bicycle traffic
Maintenance needs; as result of repairs, relocation or vandalism
Proximity of the box art to other public art
Ownership of the utility box; city-owned versus private
Box Art murals meeting these criteria could be recommended for replacement as funding is
available.
Value of New Art Murals
As beloved as these box art pieces are, they were never intended to last forever. While it is true
that some of these art pieces have held up remarkable well given the high quality paints and the
protective UV coating used, the art will eventually succumb to the outdoor elements or
maintenance/repairs and require repainting. The evaluation criteria as proposed above provides
an assessment structure that allows for flexibility in determining the "life-span" of the box art
murals and repainting. The intent behind the two area designations as proposed by the Box Art
Stakeholders Group is to offer a healthy balance between keeping our beloved art murals a little
longer while promoting both tourism and community vibrancy with a more frequent rotation of
art murals.
A more frequent rotation of artwork in the “Downtown Core” would be alignment with the
City’s efforts to promote tourism, as well as create new opportunities for emerging artists to
generate art that is visible and accessible to the public. The nineteen utility box art murals
located in the “Downtown Core” are more susceptible to increased maintenance as a result of
higher pedestrian and vehicle traffic, graffiti and road grime caused by heavy vehicle traffic.
Boxes located in outside of the downtown core have less pedestrian and vehicle traffic making
these neighborhood locations conducive to an extended display of artwork with minimal
maintenance needed. Artists that desire to have their art murals on display for an extended
period of time could opt for locations outside of the downtown core area.
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Program Expansion
The City of San Luis Obispo owns and
operates a total of sixty-four (64) traffic
signal utility boxes. Of this amount, there
are still 31 blank city-owned traffic signal
utility box locations that can also be
prioritized for new art murals. A map of
city-owned traffic signal location and
future box art mural locations is provided
as Attachment G.
Consistent with the City’s adopted Public Engagement and Notification (PEN) Manual, the Bo x
Art Stakeholders group recommends using a unique public engagement voting opportunity to
seek community input in prioritizing the boxes for future painting phases. The “vote for the box”
public engagement opportunity will utilize “vote for me” signage on the remaining blank traffic
signal box locations. The number of votes a box receives, in addition to an evaluation against the
approved criteria (maintenance needs, high public areas, proximity to other public art, etc.), will
be used to develop a priority list for the remaining blank city traffic signal boxes to be painted. It
is anticipated that the painting of these new utility boxes could occur in phases over the next
three to seven years, as public art funding is available.
Once all city-owned utility boxes are painted with murals, the program will then focus on the
repainting the older, original boxes with new art murals. The repainting of the original utility box
art murals (currently in the “Downtown Core”) would not begin until after all of the city-owned
boxes have been painted out. This could mean that the utility boxes located in the “Downtown
Core” could be eligible for repainting as soon as 2019, or as late as 2023.
Program Schedule
Upon adoption of the policy recommendations, the Box Art Program will begin with an
evaluation of the utility boxes to prioritize maintenance, repairs and program expansion. The
location and total number of utility boxes to be painted and locations will be determined
following this public engagement and evaluation period; resulting in a painting priority order list
for the remaining blank utility boxes. Once locations for new box art have been identified, an
Art Jury will assemble to review design proposals and make selection recommendations to the
appropriate Advisory Bodies. The City Council will have the final consideration of box art
designs and locations prior to painting; which is anticipated for the late Fall/Winter. The revised
timeline for the 2016 Box Art Painting project is provided below.
Staff has confirmed compliance with the
City’s Municipal Code for signage, which
provides the lawful authority to the City for
placement of official program signage on the
traffic signal control boxes for the purpose of
this public engagement opportunity. Parks
and Recreation staff will continue to work
with the City’s Transportation and Streets
Division to develop the appropriate signage.
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CONCURRENCES
For the past several months a group of stakeholders interested in the box art program
(Attachment C) has worked to develop the proposed program amendments. Community
representatives of this stakeholders group concur with the policy language as proposed. The
Public Works Department staff has reviewed the recommended public art policy additions and
concurs with the recommendations included in this report. At its May 4, 2016 meeting, the Parks
and Recreation Commission provided input on proposed policy additions to the Box Art
Program. The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously supported the additional Box Art
Program language.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This project is not subject to environmental review because it is not a “project” within the
meaning of the California Environmental Quality Act. Alternatively, if the project is subject to
CEQA, the project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines section
15601(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in
question may have a significant effect on the environment.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no General Fund fiscal impact associated with this update to the City’s Public Art
Policies to include new language addressing the ongoing art mural maintenance, replacement,
expansion and archival of Utility Box Art program murals. The total number of traffic signal
utility box murals painted with each phase will be dependent upon available monies in the Public
Art Fund and Council’s allocation of those funds for future box art painting projects. In
December 2015, Council approved $48,000 of Public Art Funds which will be used to support
the upcoming 2016 Box Art painting project.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Do not approve proposed Public Art policy changes. The City Council could decide not
to approve one or more of the proposed Public Art policy changes. In this case, direction
should be given to staff regarding the related issues and any other changes desired to the
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public art policies.
Attachments:
a - PRC Minutes 5.4.16
b - BoxArtMap
c - Box Art Stakeholder List
d - Amend to BoxArtPolicy2016
e - Modified Box Locations
f - DA Boundary Map
g - Box Art and Future Locations Map
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City of San Luis Obispo, Title, Subtitle
1
Ludwick Community Center
864 Santa Rosa Street
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Wednesday, May 4, 2016, 5:30 p.m.
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Whitener called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Chair Jeff Whitener, Commissioners Susan Olson, Douglas Single, Susan
Updegrove
ABSENT: None (Commissioner Single absent for Agenda items 3-6)
COUNCIL: John Ashbaugh
STAFF: Shelly Stanwyck, Melissa Mudgett, Jamie Bell, Amanda Golden (Designing
Local)
Public Comment
John Stocksdale, SLO Pickleball Club, asked for clarification of the Commission’s direction to staff at the
April 6th meeting. He asked when information following the sur vey will be provided. He urged the
Commission to allow pickleballers to the share in the use of French Park Tennis courts twice weekly. Director
Stanwyck responded that the sports court survey closed on April 30th and that staff is analyzing the data. She
reminded the Commission that SLO High School tennis courts will be under construction this summer/fall and,
as per the Joint Use Agreement, the School District shall have priority use of the Sinshiemer Tennis Courts.
This will result in an increased use of Islay and French Park tennis courts of contract classes, tennis lessons and
public tennis use during the summer/fall 2016. She anticipates that the Commission should receive the survey
results and staff recommendations by summer; possibly July/August.
Jean Hyduchak, SLO Pickleball Club, thanked the Commission for their support of Pickleball and asked for
increased playing time while the survey results are being analyzed. She asked the Commission to consider
increased days at Meadow Park Basketball Courts or French Park Tennis Courts. Chair Whitener responded
that an increase in pickleball play is not on the agenda and therefore no action could be taken. He reiterated
that the Commission will be awaiting the sports court survey results in the summer.
Michael Parolini, SLO resident, supported the Pickleball Pilot Program and felt the City has done a good job in
accommodating the Pickleballers needs in a short amount of time. He felt that tennis players and Pickleballers
could reasonably share the courts.
Mila Vujovich-La Barre, SLO Resident, spoke about the property at 71 Palomar. She urged the Commission
to support the City’s purchase of this property for use as a City park. She added that this property is currently
in escrow with a private developer and she would like to see the City make a counter -offer for purchase of this
property. Chair Whitener clarified that the purchase of propert y it outside the purview of the Parks and
Recreation Commission.
Cheryl McLean, SLO Resident, also spoke in favor of having the City purchase the property at 71 Palomar for
use as a city park; adding that this location is ideal for pedestrian access.
Meeting Minutes
Parks and Recreation Commission 7.a
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City of San Luis Obispo, Title, Subtitle
2
1. CONSIDERATION OF MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 6, 2016.
MOTION: (Olson/Updegrove) Approved the Minutes of April 6, 2016 as amended.
Approved: 4 yes: 0 no: 0 absent
2. COMMUNITY WORKSHOP AND INPUT ON DRAFT PUBLIC ART MASTER PLAN
(Golden)
The Parks and Recreation Commissioners joined the audience to directly participate in the workshop activities.
Director Stanwyck introduced the Public Art Master Planning consultant, Amanda Golden of Designing Local.
Ms. Golden provided an outline of the Community Workshop activities. She added that the PRC Community
Workshop was intended as an opportunity to share the draft Public Art Master Plan with community members
and for the Commissioners and public to provide feedback about the draft Master Plan and proposed
recommendations. She reminded the group that a survey is also available through the City’s Website Open
City Hall Forum through June 15th for those who wish to provide the Advisory Body with feedback.
Ms. Golden presented the draft Master plan recommendations which were developed to help maintain and
nurture the public art program in SLO and to maximize the effectiveness of the public art program. The
Community Workshop was designed to be interactive with feedback and discussion; therefore no action was
taken by the PRC. Instead, the public attending the Community Workshop provided the Commission and staff
with feedback on the following draft recommendations. A summary of this feedback is provided below:
a. Maintenance of the Public Art Collection. The public attending the community workshop supported
addressing short and long-term maintenance plans for the art pieces and provided feedback on the
types of maintenance plans and activities they would like to Commission to consider.
b. Funding Analysis. Input was provided in support of pursuing new and diverse funding opportunities
including grants, partnerships (with TBID, schools, Cal Poly), special arts districts, and incentive
programs.
c. Community Engagement/Marketing. Input was provided about various types of communication
and marketing strategies that would better promote the City’s public art program.
d. Public Art Review Process. Input was provided about process enhancements would the community
recommend to streamline the public art process such as a mentor program and developing a directory
of artists and services.
e. Dedicated Public Art “Resource”. Input was provided about the level of staffing resource needed to
support a growing public art program.
f. Other Ideas. The community group provided additional input and feedback for the Commission to
consider when determining the strategic direction and growth of public art programming.
Parks and Recreation Manager, Melissa Mudgett, shared that the next step in the process will be the PRC’s
review of the updated draft Master Plan and the community’s feedback (received both at the workshop and
through the Open City Hall survey) at its next meeting on July 6, 2016. City staff and Ms. Golden thanked the
community members for attending the workshop and providing valuable feedback.
3. CONSIDERATION OF PUBLIC ART POLICY ADDITIONS TO THE BOX ART PROGRAM
(Mudgett)
Parks and Recreation Manager, Melissa Mudgett, presented an overview of the proposed changes to the City’s
Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art. As part of the 2016 Box Art Repainting project, the City Council
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City of San Luis Obispo, Title, Subtitle
3
recommended staff return to the Council with additional amendments to the public art policy for the Box Art
program to address maintenance, duration of mural exhibits, expansion of the program and archival of the box
art murals. Staff Mudgett said that the Box Art Stakeholders Group (which consists of various City staff,
artists and community organization representatives) was formed in response to Council’s direction and the
policy additions recommended this evening are in support of these community concerns. She added that the
purpose of the Temporary Public Art policy for Box Art is to encourage the creative uses of public art on
utility boxes throughout the community based on established guidelines. Staff Mudgett summarized the
proposed Utility Box Art program policy language and reiterated that the new language helps identify
parameters when expanding box locations as well as guidelines for mural replacement, ongoing maintenance
and care, and the proper archival of deaccessioned box art murals.
Public Comment
Michael Parolini, SLO Resident, asked the Public Art Program staff to consider adding QR codes to the utility
boxes which would link the public to the City’s website and information about the artists and box art. Staff
Mudgett responded that this is currently under consideration.
Commission Comment
Commission Updegrove asked for clarification that the yellow highlighted areas were the recommended
additional policy language; which were not a part of the adopted policy prior. Staff Mudgett confirmed that
this was correct; the highlighted areas were the newly recommended policy additions.
Commissioner Updegrove asked for clarification of “archival” and “deaccessioned”. Staff Mudgett responded
that archival refers to the preservation of the art mural in both print and media form; deaccessioned refers to
the removal of the physical utility box from the City’s traffic signal system. Staff Mudgett added that a
glossary of terms is also provided as Attachment 3 to the staff report for further clarification. Commissioner
Updegrove thanked the Box Art Stakeholder Group for their efforts.
MOTION: (Updegrove/Olson) Recommend that the City Council adopts the proposed additions to the Public
Art Policy for the Utility Box Art Program.
Approved: 3 yes: 0 no: 1 absent (Commissioner Single)
4. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Stanwyck provided a brief overview of current Parks and Recreation programming.
3 PRC Advisory Body vacancies
Monster Skate on May 21st
Currently recruiting and training for lifeguards
Rangers working on Reservoir Canyon Trails
Kindergarten registration a success on May 2nd
Golf Course Restroom Remodel project is completed. Ribbon Cutting event to be scheduled.
Jack House Elevator Removal and Restoration project is completed. Ribbon cutting
ceremony on May 10th at 3:00pm
5. SUBCOMMITTEE LIAISON REPORTS
Adult and Senior Programming: No Report.
Bicycle Advisory: No Report.
City Facilities (Damon Garcia, Golf, Pool & Joint Use Facilities): No Report.
Jack House Committee: Commissioner Updegrove reported that the Jack House Elevator
Restoration project is now complete with a ribbon cutting ceremony is planned for May 10th
at 3:00pm. Jack House Mother’s Day will be on Sunday, May 8th from 1-4:00pm. There
will be live music and if there are three generations of a family present, they can tour the
house for free.
Tree Committee: Commissioner Olson said there was nothing significant to report.
Youth Sports: No Report.
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City of San Luis Obispo, Title, Subtitle
4
6. COMMUNICATIONS
No other communications.
Adjourned at 8.17 pm to the Regular Meeting on June 1, 2016 at the City Council Chambers, 990 Palm
Street, San Luis Obispo at 5:30pm.
Approved by the Parks and Recreation Commission on June 1, 2016.
________________________________________________
Melissa C. Mudgett, Parks and Recreation Department Manager
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|SLO BOX ART
The City of San Luis Obispo invites artists and community members residing in
San Luis Obispo County to apply for the 2016 Box Art Repainting Project.
|the project
The City’s Box Art Program began in 2010 as a
creative way to deter graffiti. The goal of the Box Art
program was to use the utility boxes as “canvases”
for original art pieces. The Box Art has contributed to
the vitality and attractiveness of our community while
effectively deterring graffiti and adding to SLO’s “curb
appeal”. SLO Box Art is a streetscape showcase
for talented local artists and community members to
transform standard utility boxes into new public art-
works, adding to the vibrancy of our cityscape while
creating a sense of place and identity.
|More information: facebook.com/SLOPublicArt | Instagram: @slopublicart
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City of San Luis Obispo, Parks and Recreation, 1341 Nipomo Street, San Luis Obispo, CA, 93401-3934, 805.781.7300, slocity.org
2016 BOX ART STAKEHOLDERS GROUP
MEMBER LIST
Name Representative
1. Melissa C. Mudgett City of San Luis Obispo, Public Art Program
2. Jamie Bell City of San Luis Obispo, Parks & Recreation Marketing
3. Barbara Lynch City of San Luis Obispo, Public Works (Box Maintenance)
4. Lt. Bill Proll City of San Luis Obispo, Police Department (Graffiti)
5. Dominic Tartaglia Downtown Association, Executive Director
6. Landy Fike The Tribune News & Downtown Design Committee
7. Charlene Rosales SLO Chamber of Commerce, Governmental Affairs
8. Aaron Gomez Local Business Owner & SLO Chamber Economic Vitality
Committee
9. Angela Tahti Arts Obispo, Executive Director
10. Allen Root Local Artist & ARC Advisory Body
11. Colleen Gnos Local Artist & former Artist for Box Art (Phase I)
12. Marcie Hawthorne Local Artist & former Artist for Box Art (Phase I & II)
13. Ann Dover Community Member & Arts Advocate
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
1
Program Background
In 2010, as part of the City’s Downtown Maintenance and Beautification project, the City Council
approved funding for the Utility Box Art pilot project. This temporary public art pilot project was
initiated by the City of San Luis Obispo with the support of the San Luis Obispo downtown Association
and Arts Obispo. Initially conceived as a graffiti abatement measure to enhance unattractive utility/traffic
control boxes at various high visibility intersections in the Downtown core, widespread popularity of the
box art program quickly grew and enabled the pilot program expand.
The Utility Box Art Program was designed to use the funding for regular lifecycle maintenance of city
assets in a creative way. The program allowed for these street level artworks to add vibrancy to our
cityscape, while creating a sense of place and identity for our community through a resident art selection
jury. These public artworks were not intended to be permanent but as a temporary canvas through which
artists and community members could express themselves and their identity.
Since 2010, various painted utility/traffic control boxes have required maintenance upgrades, installation
of necessary battery back-up cabinets or repairs as a result of unanticipated damages which have had an
impact on the artwork. In 2015, updates to the City’s Public Art policy included the adoption of the
Utility Box Art program a regular, ongoing public art program. Additional program updates were
identified in 2016 to clarify maintenance procedures for the artwork should the utility/traffic control
boxes require repairs, removal or modification, and to address expansion of the program, the life-span of
the artwork and proper archival methods for the box art murals.
The goal of the Utility Box Art Program is to encourage the creative uses of public art throughout the
community through the promotion of new artist opportunities to create works of art that contribute to the
vitality and attractiveness of the streetscape. Artwork on utility boxes function as a form of
communication to a moving audience with the goal of creating a vibrant, inclusive and interesting urban
environment.
PROGRAM
1. Mission of Box Art Program: The primary mission of the “BOX ART” program is intended to
invigorate the City of San Luis Obispo for both residents and tourists alike through the
incorporation of public art on traffic signal utility boxes. The utility boxes serve as community
“canvases” for original pieces of art, contribute to the vitality and attractiveness of the city while
deterring vandalism and graffiti.
2. Glossary of Terms: A Glossary of Terms for the Utility Box Art Program is provided as Exhibit
A.
3. Box Specification: Dimensions of the large utility boxes are generally 5’4” H X 3’3” W x 2’,9”
D. Dimensions of the small utility boxes are generally 3’ H X 2’2” W x 1’6” D. Art should cover
all exposed sides including the top. Utility box sizes may vary; selected artists must be willing to
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
2
adjust designs to the box assigned. There are a total of sixty-four (64) City-owned traffic signal
boxes that are included in the Box Art Program. A map of City traffic signal box locations is
provided as Exhibit B.
4. Maintenance of Box Art Murals: The Public Art Program Manager shall prioritize the box art
mural maintenance needs on an annual basis. Utility Box Art murals shall be cleaned annually.
Additional cleanings could be provided through volunteer and partnership opportunities as
available. To help protect the utility box art murals from the environment and extend the life-
span, the utility box art murals located outside of the Downtown Core (and refreshed less
frequently) shall be recoated with an anti-graffiti UV protectant sealant approximately every three
(3) to five (5) years as funding permits. Deaccessioned utility boxes on display as part of an
archival program shall be included in the box art maintenance program, cleaned and re-coated as
needed to protect the integrity of the artwork.
5. Duration of Box Art: Utility Box Art murals shall be on public display for a recommended
period when the utility box would then be eligible for refreshing of the box art mural. The
replacement schedule of the exterior box art murals shall be determined by both the extent of
maintenance and/or repairs required and a box’s location.
a. Significant Repairs: Utility box art murals that are subject to significant repairs (such as
but not limited to: extensive graffiti, vandalism, damaged traffic signal casings, failure of
the internal electrical components, or subject to mechanical maintenance upgrades as
referenced in Exhibit A) shall be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Public Art
Manager to determine the extent of repairs or replacement. Any boxes identified for
significant repairs should be designated for a subsequent Box Art painting phase.
a. Location: The duration of display for box artwork shall be subject to the box locations as
follows:
1. Downtown Core (as defined by the SLO Downtown Association boundaries,
Exhibit C): In effort to promote vibrant tourism of the downtown core, the
utility box art located within this area will be refreshed approximately every
three (3) to five (5) years as funding permits. The frequent rotation of artwork
in the downtown promotes economic vitality by attracting new and visiting
populations.
2. All Other City Locations: The utility box art murals located outside of the
Downtown Core boundaries, and in residential neighborhoods, shall be on
display for an extended period of time. The utility box art located in these
areas shall be refreshed approximately every 10 years as funding permits.
6. Utility Box Art Program Expansion: Program expansion shall include utility boxes that are not
currently painted with art. Each expansion phase of utility box art should consist of a
recommended amount of utility boxes; preferring fifteen utility box locations or less. These
utility/traffic control box locations shall be determined by Public Works and Public Art program
staff, with input from community organizations such as the Downtown Association, SLO
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
3
Chamber of Commerce, Arts Obispo and neighborhood groups; as meeting one or more of the
following criteria for program expansion.
a. Criteria for Box Art Expansion:
1. Community engagement: The City shall facilitate public engagement
opportunities seeking the community’s input and prioritization for program
expansion.
2. Exposure: The level of pedestrian, bicycle and vehicle traffic surrounding the
potential box location shall be considered. Preference shall be given to box
locations with the greatest exposure.
3. Vandalism: Utility box locations that are routinely subject to vandalism and/or
graffiti shall receive consideration for subsequent program expansion.
4. Proximity to other art in public spaces: Proximity of the traffic signal utility
box location to other community art. Preference shall be given where there is
minimal public art in close proximity.
5. Ownership: Staff will evaluate both City-owned and privately-owned utility
box locations. Preference shall be given to 64 City-owned utility locations.
The City will explore partnership opportunities for program expansion to
privately-owned utility box locations (such as electrical, television and phone
utilities).
7. Artist Eligibility: The Box Art program shall be open to individual artists, a team of artists or
community groups with a designated lead artist who have the vision and skills required
completing the project to the highest standards of innovation and technical expertis e. Qualifying
applicants must reside in San Luis Obispo County. Artists should carefully read the description of
the project and Request for Proposals (RFP) and decide if the project is suitable to their interests,
capabilities and experience.
8. Public Works Department Review: The Public Works Department shall provide input in the
development of the Box Art RFPs before advertising. Prior to beginning the Art Jury review, the
Public Art Manager shall arrange for the proposals to be reviewed by appropriate Public Works
Department staff. The purpose of this review is to identify any significant engineering or
maintenance issues that may arise out of the placement of art or the choice of materials for the
artwork for the particular site. If the artwork is part of a larger construction project, it may be
valuable to have the project contractor present, as well. This information will be presented to the
Art Jury to help guide their decisions when selecting an art design and location.
9. Selecting an Art Jury: Art Jurors evaluate the artist qualifications and box art proposals received
and make a recommendation for selection. The preferred approach in assembling an Art Jury is
to create a five/seven member selection committee for the Box Art project. The Art Jury,
consisting of volunteers from Arts Obispo, SLO Downtown Association, San Luis Obispo
Chamber of Commerce, local artist(s), interested community member(s), City staff and a box art
neighbor(s). A neighbor or representative for each of the affected neighborhoods for the traffic
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
4
utility boxes will be selected for an Art Jury. Art Jury names shall be included in the staff
reports.
10. The Jury Evaluation Process: Box Art proposals submitted in response to a Box Art RFP will
be reviewed by the Public Art Manager who will then forward all complete and eligible
applications received by the deadline to the Public Works Department for review. Following this
internal review, proposals shall be provided to the Art Jury for evaluation.
a. Evaluation Criteria: The criteria used to select eligible artists and designs shall be in
accordance with the approved Guidelines for Public Art (Appendix B) and in meeting the
criteria as follows:
1. Evaluation of artistic excellence
2. Appropriateness of scale, form, content and design
3. Relationship to the social, cultural and/or historical identity
4. Experience in working on comparable projects
5. Artists (or lead artist of a team) must reside in San Luis Obispo county
The Art Jury will evaluate all complete, eligible, Box Art proposals received by the deadline. If
the number of qualifying applications does not meet the number needed; City staff and/or the
Council may decide to reopen the selection process. Upon evaluating the qualifications provided
in the Box Art proposals, the Art Jury will recommend to the appropriate Advisory Bodies the
artist designs, totaling the amount of utility/traffic control boxes within a phase, and location.
11. Guidelines and Review Process for Public Art: The adopted Guidelines for Public Art
(Appendix B) will apply in making a determination that the proposed project is acceptable to the
City and should move forward in the selection and approval process. Box art designs and
locations, as recommended by the Art Jury, shall be reviewed by the appropriate Advisory
Bodies. The Cultural Heritage Committee (CHC) shall review for consistency with historical
context of the surrounding area and the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) to ensure the
design meets the adopted Guidelines for Public Art. Designs that do not garner the support of
Advisory Bodies shall not proceed, unless appealed to City Council pursuant to Municipal Code
Section 1.20. Staff shall present the final recommended designs and locations to the City Council
for final approval.
12. Artist Selection and Contract: Following the City Councils’ approval, the Public Art Manager
shall enter into a public art contract agreement with the selected artists for the installation of
utility box art. The Utility Box Art Artist Agreement is provided as Appendix O.
13. Artists’ Stipend: Selected artists shall be compensated for the application of their artwork and
designs. Stipends are based upon the size of the utility box. The stipend amount shall be all-
inclusive and cover costs incurred by the artist in the course of designing and installing the
artwork. In addition, artists may apply for reimbursement of materials, with original receipts. A
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
5
maximum value of reimbursement shall apply. The final selected artists will also receive an
honorarium upon the completion of their artwork for their conceptual renderings. The approved
artist stipend amount (as referenced in Exhibit A) shall be reviewed and updated prior to each
Box Art phase.
14. Media and Materials Guidelines: The Media and Material Guidelines is provided as Exhibit D.
These guidelines identify the prerequisite materials such as paints, primers and sealants required
for the exterior box art murals. The approved Media and Materials Guidelines shall be reviewed
and updated prior to each box art phase.
15. Permitting: The selected Artists are required to obtain a no-cost Encroachment Permit through
the City’s Community Development Department prior to the painting of the utility box art mural.
16. Maintenance, Repairs, Modification of Utility/Traffic Control Boxes: The Public Works
Department is responsible for maintaining City facilities, which includes all City-owned or City-
sponsored public art. The City reserves the right to modify or remove artwork should a
utility/traffic control box require maintenance, modifications or repairs as a result of
unanticipated damages. Should this occur, the City shall provide public notification consistent
with the City’s adopted Public Engagement and Notification policies regarding the affected
public art. The City shall notify the affected artist(s) and provide him/her the opportunity to
repair the affected mural. Should the artist be unable to repair the mural, the box art would be
eligible for new public art in the subsequent phase of Box Art. Should the timing of the
subsequent Box Art phase be greater than one year, the utility/traffic control box shall be reverted
back to the standard utility/traffic control box color until it can be incorporated into the next
phase of painting.
17. Archival and Deaccessioning of Box Art Murals: At the end of either the pre-determined
artwork lifespan, or the deaccessioning of the utility boxes as a result of
maintenance/repairs/relocation, the artwork shall be archived in a way to preserve the integrity
and historical context of this public art program.
a. Archival: The preservation of the box art murals shall include both print and electronic
preservation that is accessible to the public. Print materials for the purpose of archival
could include, but are not limited to, brochures, interactive coloring books, postcards,
books, etc. Electronic archival could include, but are not limited to, digital images,
virtual tours or database available via the City’s website.
b. Deaccessioning: In instances where the physical utility box is decommissioned and no
longer in use, the public art program shall identify and recommend options for the
relocation and continued display of the public art mural. Deaccessioning of the utility
boxes could include, but is not limited to, a box art memorial garden or an “adopt-a-box”
program which would provide for ongoing public display of the artwork. The public art
program shall incorporate the maintenance of any deaccessioned boxes on display as part
of the maintenance program, unless otherwise specified.
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
6
BOX ART PROGRAM EXHIBITS (included in Public Art Policy as Appendix O)
Exhibit A – Glossary of Terms
Exhibit B – City-Owned Traffic Signal Utility Box & Box Art Map
Exhibit C – Downtown Association Boundary Map
Exhibit D – Media and Materials
Adopted by City Council as amended on XXXXXX, 2016
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
7
Exhibit A – Glossary of Terms
Utility Box Art Program Glossary of Terms
Archival: The preservation of the box art murals (both present and past), in both print and electronic form,
in a way that remains accessible to the public.
Art Jury: A selection committee comprised of community volunteers assigned to evaluate art proposals and
make selection recommendations to the appropriate Advisory Bodies. Art Juries consist of volunteers from
Arts Obispo, Downtown Association, Chamber of Commerc e, local artist(s), interested community
member(s), City staff and neighbors to the proposed box art.
ARTS Obispo: The San Luis Obispo County Arts Council (ARTS Obispo) is a local arts non -profit that is
committed to advancing visual, literary and performing arts within the community.
Box Art: A City program for public art where the exterior of utility traffic signal boxes have been painted
with artwork.
Deaccessioned: Relinquishment of artwork from the Box Art Program collection when a utility box is no
longer in use. When possible, deaccessioned boxes will be relocated where the artwork can remain on
public display.
Downtown Association (DA): A local organization supporting the needs of downtown SLO merchants in
the areas of Parking, Promotions, Design, Economic Activities, Food, Beverage & Services and Thursday
Night Promotions.
Downtown Core: In reference to the boundaries assigned by the DA for downtown San Luis Obispo. The
boundaries extend to the West (at Palm Street), South (at Beach Street), East (at Pacific Street), and to the
North (at Santa Rosa Street). Refer to Downtown Association map.
Expansion: The addition of new blank utility boxes to the Box Art Program that are eligible to receive new
artwork. New utility boxes will be added to the program based upon evaluation criteria as determined in
the Box Art Policy.
Evaluation Criteria: A set of conditions identified to help prioritize the next utility boxes eligible for new
artwork. This criteria will utilize community engagement, the level of pedestrian/vehicle/bike traffic of the
area, consideration of any box repairs resulting in vandalism, the box location to other public art and
whether a box is city-owned or privately owned when determining which utility boxes will receive artwork.
Media & Materials: Any paints, primers, wraps, protective coating and sealants used in the application of
exterior box art murals.
Mural: A piece of artwork painted, or applied directly, on the exterior of a utility box.
Painting (new): Refers to the application of a new box art mural on a blank utility box that is currently void
of public art.
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
8
Phase: A collection or group of utility boxes that are painted with artwork during a given time period.
Private Utility Boxes: Any utility box that is not owned or operated by the City of San Luis Obispo and that
provides community utilities primarily for power (PG&E), telephone (AT&T), television (Charter) or other.
Refresh (rotating art): When existing box art murals have either reached the pre-determined life span or
require “significant” repairs, the utility box is eligible for a new art mural. Existing box art murals are then
“refreshed” with new art.
Repair: Refers to routine box art mural repairs to correct chipping or minor damage to the artwork.
Significant Repairs: Refers to the extent and cost of repairs to the utility box case and the affected artwork.
“Significant” is determined when the cost of repair exceeds 50% of the value of the artwork stipe nd.
“Significant” is also determined when the extent of the damage to the artwork surface area is greater than
25% (one side panel). Any boxes identified as needing “significant repairs” will be designated for a
subsequent Box Art painting phase.
SLO Chamber of Commerce: The San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce is an independent non-profit
corporation that works to enhance economic prosperity of its membership and the community well -being of
San Luis Obispo County.
Stipend: Compensation provided to selected box artist for the application of their artwork and mural
designs. Stipends are based upon the size of the utility box. The stipend for a large utility box is $1,500,
and small utility box $700 which shall be all-inclusive of material costs. A materials reimbursement is
provided to selected artists in an amount not –to-exceed $200 (original receipts required). Following the
completion of the box art murals, the artist will receive an honorarium of $100 for their mural design .
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
9
Exhibit B – City Traffic Signal Locations
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
10
Exhibit C – Downtown Association Boundary Map
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ATTACHMENT D – Proposed Amendment to Public Art Policy for Utility Box Art Program
Public Art Policy (Excerpt Pages 19-21)
Proposed Policy Updates = Highlighted (Yellow Highlights represent new Box Art policy
language as proposed by the Box Art Stakeholders Group and as recommended by the
Parks and Recreation Commission)
11
EXHIBIT D - Box Art Media and Materials Guidelines
The following is a guideline for paint, primer and sealant materials to be used by the City and selected artists for the
Box Art program murals. The Media and Materials Guidelines shall be reviewed and updated prior to each box art
phase.
Media
The submitted Artwork must be original and may not contain advertising, religious art, sexual or illegal drug -related
content, negative imagery or convey political partisanship.
Vinyl wraps of “digitally enhanced works” are permitted.
Materials
Paints, primers and sealant materials to be used for Box Art program murals:
City Responsibility
To prepare the utility boxes to accept the mural artwork, the City will coordinate the cleaning and priming of the
utility boxes prior to the first day of painting
Following completion of the artwork murals, the City will seal the utility boxes with a UV -protective and anti-
graffiti clear-coat. This topcoat is applied directly on murals as protectant.
Frog Juice Water Based: Clear urethane copolymer coating which contains absorbers and hinders amine
light stabilizers for maximum UV light protection.
Artist Responsibility
Selected artists for the Box Art Program must use the following materials as outlined below:
Paint Types
Paint Types require premium high solids 100% acrylic latex waterborne exterior wall and trim.
Paint; low-sheen, eggshell or satin finish; minimum 1.5 mil dry thickness per coat.
Paint Products (in recommended order):
1. Nova Color (preferred)
2. Sherwin Williams: Accolade Exterior Acrylic Latex, Satin
3. Pratt and Lambert: Accolade Exterior Acrylic Latex, Eggshell
4. Benjamin Moore: Aura Exterior Acrylic Latex #634 Low Luster
5. Frazee #126 Mirror Glide Low Sheen Acrylic Latex
6. Kelly Moore #1245 Acry-Shield Acrylic Latex Low Sheen.
Top Coat:
Polyurethane top coat (marine grade) to be applied on top of the completed artwork to serve a
sacrificial layer
Vella 5% Fluoride Varnish
Materials List updated April 2016
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ATTACHMENT F - Modified Utility Boxes with UPC Battery Backup Units
Box #12 – Marcia
Box #24 – Chris Pederson
Box #12 – Marcie Hawthorne
Box #25 – Chris Pederson
Box #6 – Allister Dipner
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ATTACHMENT F – Downtown Association Boundary Map
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Utility Box Art Program
Enhancements
Vitality Curb Appeal Showcase for Art
Box Art in SLO
The City’s utility box art is loved.
No physical changes to existing box
art will occur until 2019 at the
earliest.
Melissa Mudgett, Parks and
Recreation and Public Art Manager,
worked with interested parties for
months to get the draft policies just
“right”.
Box Art Program History
Highlights
2010 - Pilot Program - Downtown
Beautification
2012 - Program Expanded
2013 – A total of 33 Art Murals displayed
on City Traffic Signal Utility Boxes
Mar 2015 – Council Approves Policy
Updates for Box Art
Dec 2015 – Council Approves Funding
for 2016 Box Art Repainting
History Highlights (Continued)
Feb 2016 – Community provides feedback
regarding details of repainting boxes
Feb to May 2016 – Staff coordinates with
Box Art interested parties regarding details
of programing including repainting timing
May 2016 – PRC provides
recommendation to Council
July 2016 – Council considers Box Art
Enhancements
Participants In Policy
Enhancements
City Staff
Downtown
Association
SLO
Chamber
Tribune
Staff
Arts Obispo
Business
Owner
Box Artists
Community
Member
Areas of Policy Enhancement
Maintenance
Duration (Life Span)
Expansion (More Boxes First)
Archival of Art
MAINTENANCE
New Short Term Maintenance
Annual cleanings of all boxes
Volunteers used for more frequent
cleanings
Immediate graffiti removal
New Long Term Maintenance
Contract with artists for them to make
repairs when needed
Re-application of protective UV coating
every 3-5 years on all boxes
DURATION
Duration of artwork is based on its
location and/or the extent of
maintenance or repairs to the box.
Benefits
Flexibility in determining the "life-span"
of the box art murals & repainting
Longer term a more frequent rotation
of art in the “Downtown Core”
DURATION - Location
Once expansion is complete; two
different “lifespans” for art based on
location.
Downtown Core. Repainted every
three to five years.
Other City locations. Repaint every
10 years.
DURATION – Significant
Repairs/Maintenance
Significant Repairs/Maintenance include:
Extensive Graffiti
Vandalism
Extensive damage to box
Replacement or upgrade of a box
Significant Repairs/Maintenance. Will result
in a box’s repainting during the next round of
painting.
Maintenance & Care
PROPOSE BENEFIT
Short & Long-term care for the preservation of the
artwork (both in current collection and deaccessioned
boxes)
Increases the mural
"life" for resident
& visitor
enjoyment
Short Term:
•Annual Box Cleanings
•Volunteer Groups for More Frequent or Specific
Cleanings
•Immediate Graffiti Removal
Longer Term:
•Contract with artists for repairs when needed
•Re-application of protective UV coating every 3-5
years
EXPANSION
There are currently 64 City-Owned traffic
signal utility boxes.
Of those, 33 have Box Art painted on
them.
There are 31 Future Box Art locations.
CURRENT
EXPANSION
EXPANSION – Factors for
developing a priority list
Community Engagement (vote for your box)
Exposure of box (preference to high
exposure spots)
Vandalism (subject to regular prioritization to
abate bad behaviors)
Proximity to other public art (adding art where
there isn’t any first)
Preference to City owned boxes.
Maintenance & Care
PROPOSE BENEFIT
Short & Long-term care for the preservation of the
artwork (both in current collection and deaccessioned
boxes)
Increases the mural
"life" for resident
& visitor
enjoyment
Short Term:
•Annual Box Cleanings
•Volunteer Groups for More Frequent or Specific
Cleanings
•Immediate Graffiti Removal
Longer Term:
•Contract with artists for repairs when needed
•Re-application of protective UV coating every 3-5
years
EXPANSION - Timing
Painting of identified new boxes in
priority order during the next three
to seven years, as public art funding
is available.
No repainting of the 33 currently
painted boxes until expansion
complete
Repainting in the downtown
beginning probably no earlier than
2019.
ARCHIVAL
At the end of either the pre-determined artwork
lifespan, or the deaccessioning of the utility boxes the
artwork shall be archived to preserve the integrity and
historical context
Examples
Photo books, coloring pages, postcards, and
website displays and database
“Adopt-a-box” program, relocation of deaccessioned
boxes for continued public display (memorial
garden), or the private purchase of signal cabinets
when removed from the box art program.
Next Steps
JULY –
AUG
2016
Public
Engagement
(“voting”)
AUGUST
2016
Criteria
applied and
Art Jury
reviews new
locations &
recommends
artists
SEPT 2016
Advisory Body
Reviews of
Recommended
Designs &
Locations
OCT
2016
City Council
considers
approval of
New
Locations
and designs
NOV
2016
Painting of
New Boxes
Utility Box Art Program
Recommended Action
As recommended by the Parks and Recreation
Commission, approve proposed changes to the
City’s Public Art policies as presented
Thank
You