Title
Recommendation to Select Physical Public Art Site Within Washington Park and Review Proposed RFQ Timeline
Body
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Public Art Commission
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On October 21, 2024, the Public Art Commission (PAC) approved a Biennial Work Plan which includes a request for qualifications (RFQ) in 2025 for physical art. Over the last year, staff researched and evaluated 41 potential sites and engaged over 300 Alamedans in the process. Three top sites were selected, and Washington Park was deemed most suitable.
In preparation for the RFQ, staff are recommending the PAC select a site within Washington Park for placement of the physical public art and review proposed RFQ timeline.
BACKGROUND
The site selection process for physical art is outlined in the City's 2023 Public Art Master Plan. The Plan includes recommendations to develop and establish "prioritized sites for public art across the island." To do this in tandem with the development of physical public art in Alameda, staff researched and ranked 41 sites for potential public art based on the following five (5) criteria; visibility, accessibility, environmental suitability, safety, and community input. Below is a summary of the site selection process to date.
* In 2024, over 300 Alamedans responded to a City-wide poll. The poll findings were used to inform the selection of five primary sites for future physical public art.
* Of the five primary sites, the PAC selected three top sites: Washington Park, Neptune Park, and the Main Street Ferry Terminal.
* Staff conducted extensive research into the top three sights. Staff consulted with Alameda Recreation and Parks Department, Public Works, and SF Bay Ferry.
* Due to sea level rise, flood inundation and discontinuation of ferry service, both Neptune Park and the Main Street Ferry Terminal were ruled out as potential sites.
Consequently, Washington Park was deemed the most suitable and was selected as the location...
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