The City of Clearwater Public Art & Design Board meeting on April 13, 2023, focused on safety concerns regarding newly installed public art sculptures. Board members discussed the potential hazards associated with the sculptures, particularly for children who might climb on them.
During the meeting, concerns were raised about the design of the sculptures, which include metal edges that could pose risks if children were to trip or fall. Samantha Moulay, the neighborhood services manager, noted that while safety was a priority during the design phase, issues arose once the sculptures were installed. She highlighted that the metal edges were sharper than anticipated and could be dangerous, especially for young children.
The board acknowledged that the artist had designed the sculptures with safety in mind, but the actual installation revealed unforeseen risks. The discussion emphasized the importance of ongoing safety assessments in public spaces, particularly those frequented by children.
In conclusion, the board plans to address these safety concerns further, ensuring that the public art installations remain both engaging and safe for the community.