To: Members of the Public Art Commission
From: Maia Aman, Town Liaison
Title
AARP Community Challenge Grant Opportunity
Body
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Executive Summary
The 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant opportunity was recently brought to the attention of the Town Manager’s office. More information about the grant opportunity can be reviewed through AARP’s website at <https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/community-challenge/info-2020/2020-challenge.html>.
Special Projects Manager, Matt Gohl, reached out to the Public Art Commission’s Staff Liaison and noted that he is considering submitting an application for art at 1469 Columbine Street (Attachment A).
At this site, the Town plans to demolish an existing facility and develop a neighborhood park. And, at a recent open house, several community members expressed interest in improving this site’s character with public art.
According to the grant description, acceptable projects must aim to achieve the following outcomes:
• Increasing civic engagement with innovative and tangible projects that bring residents and local leaders together to address challenges and facilitate a greater sense of community inclusion and diversity. (Although this category is targeted to local governments, nonprofit organizations can apply for and receive a grant in this category provided they demonstrate that they are working with local governments to solicit and include residents’ insights about the project or to help solve a pressing challenge.)
• Create vibrant public places that improve open spaces, parks and access to other amenities.
• Deliver a range of transportation and mobility options that increase connectivity, walkability, bikeability, wayfinding, access to transportation options and roadway improvements.
• Support the availability of a range of housing that increases accessible and affordable housing options.
• Demonstrate the tangible value of “Smart Cities” with programs that engage residents in accessing, understanding and using data, and participating in decision-making to increase the quality of life for all.
• Other community improvements: In addition to the five areas of focus, AARP wants to hear about local needs and new, innovative ideas for addressing them.
In addition, project types may include:
• Permanent physical improvements in the community
• Temporary demonstrations that lead to long-term change
• New, innovative programming or services
Staff Recommendation
Since grant applications are due April 1, staff recommend that the Commission consider various project ideas for submission. Staff will then work to obtain cost estimates and provide details to the Town Manager’s office for submission as appropriate.
Attachments
Attachment A - Proposed Site Layout for 1469 Columbine Drive