Matthews Town Council approves new kinetic sculpture for outdoor gallery

Matthews officials are taking significant steps to enhance community safety and cultural vibrancy, as discussed during the Board of Commissioners meeting on June 23, 2025. A key focus was on improving bicycle safety in the area, with Commissioner Garner raising concerns about the lack of dedicated bike lanes and the correlation between increased cycling and safety. Recent data revealed that three bicycle fatalities occurred in areas without bike lanes, underscoring the need for safer cycling infrastructure. Garner emphasized the importance of providing safe facilities for cyclists, noting that many residents are eager to ride bikes and seek better pedestrian access.

In a related discussion, the town's cultural program manager, Sarah Clemens, presented a proposal to expand Matthews' outdoor sculpture gallery. The proposed addition, a kinetic sculpture titled "Spirica" by artist Lawrence Fair, would be installed at the corner of Ames and Matthews Street. This sculpture, which stands 16 feet tall and is made of marine-grade stainless steel, aims to enhance the town's artistic presence and attract visitors. The project is budgeted at $2,500, already accounted for in the Parks and Recreation operating budget.

The meeting also highlighted the town's strong fiscal position, with sales tax revenues up 15.68% year-over-year and parks and recreation revenues increasing by 5.5%. These financial gains reflect the community's growth and the effectiveness of the town's management strategies.

As Matthews continues to develop its infrastructure and cultural offerings, the decisions made in this meeting are poised to foster a safer, more vibrant community for residents and visitors alike.