Selectmen form Riverwalk artwork committee to begin organizing public art program

The Milford Board of Selectmen on July 28 voted to form an Artwork (Riverwalk) Committee to begin organizing a public‑art Riverwalk project linking sections of the riverfront and other public spaces.

The Economic Development Advisory Committee (EDAC) and a local proponent, identified in meetings as Keith Trexler, have discussed models used by neighboring towns and recommended a steering group to coordinate fundraising, artist selection and site decisions. EDAC members told the selectmen that the project will likely require a steering committee and multiple subcommittees to handle fundraising, site selection and installation logistics.

Why it matters: proponents said public art along the river could stimulate economic development, increase foot traffic and create a new visitor amenity; selectmen emphasized the need for clear rules on where art will be permitted and for board oversight of final site approvals.

Board action: the board approved formation of an Artwork Committee by motion from Miss Philbrick and second by Mister Friel. Selectmen said a small steering committee (4–5 people) could oversee the project and that committee members or a steering group should present detailed plans and candidate committee members to the board for formal recognition and any required approvals.

Next steps: the committee lead (Trexler) and EDAC will continue outreach, begin forming subcommittees and prepare a plan showing proposed sites and governance; the board said it expects to review committee membership and plans before site installations occur.

Ending: by forming the committee the board cleared the way for Trexler and volunteers to begin fundraising and planning; final approvals for siting and installations will return to the board.