Clark County approves $300,000 in new public-art projects as part of FY 2026 arts plan

The Clark County Commission on June 3 approved the county arts plan and the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget to manage the public art program, fund new projects and education, and repair existing works.

County parks and recreation staff said the arts program focuses on local artists and community engagement. Patrick Almedo, acting director, parks and recreation, told commissioners the division completed multiple projects in FY25 and is proposing $300,000 in new project allocations for FY26, with a priority on contracting local artists.

The arts division reported hiring and commissioning primarily local artists for dozens of projects in the past year and increasing youth engagement. Almedo told the board the program produced or hosted hundreds of artworks and events, noting that youth participation included about 575 children and that the department had completed projects that hired more than a dozen local artists. He said the department now has five full-time positions after two were added in FY25 and that the FY26 budget includes staffing, conservation, public art education, gallery programming and $300,000 for new projects.

Among the projects and initiatives described were: ZAP 19 (utility-box art) at Nellis and Boulder Highway; ZAP 20 utility-box paintings at Sunset Park; a proposed Red Rock Legacy Trail cyclist sculpture intended to honor people who lost their lives while cycling; a rotating year-long temporary interactive art concept with Lamond that would move through parks in multiple districts; and continued utility-box and mural work in Spring Valley and other redevelopment areas. Staff said the Pearson Community Center pillar mural and other recent projects were completed with local artists and community engagement.

Commissioners asked about engagement with the Oakland A's stadium plans; Almedo said the department would seek to coordinate with the organization and pursue a public-art piece at the stadium if feasible and appropriate. After brief remarks and acknowledgments to staff and community partners, a commissioner moved approval of Item 20; the motion passed.

The county presentation emphasized continued prioritization of local artists, increased social media and a new submission software to simplify artist proposals. Staff also said some previously funded projects are on hold pending the hiring of a project coordinator to resume work.

The vote approved the arts plan and the FY26 budget allocations as presented for public-art acquisitions, commissions and operating support.