Peoria council approves two downtown murals, authorizes five-year display agreement
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Summary
The Peoria City Council unanimously approved special-use permits allowing murals above 30 feet on two downtown parking decks and a five-year temporary-art agreement with Big Picture Peoria.
The Peoria City Council unanimously approved two special-use ordinances July 22 to allow murals above the 30-foot height limit on the Jefferson and Water Street parking decks and authorized a five-year agreement with Big Picture Peoria to display artwork on the Adams Street side of the Jefferson deck.
The approvals lift the height restriction for temporary mural installations at 232–236 Southwest Jefferson Avenue and 401 Southwest Water Street and include a separate agreement between the city and Big Picture Peoria for outdoor placement of artwork on the Jefferson deck for five years.
Council member Carmona said public art “creates identities for our cities” and thanked Big Picture Peoria for beautifying the community. Carmona made the motions to approve both items; the Jefferson Deck special use and the associated agreement passed unanimously after a second by Council member Kelly, and the Water Street special-use passed unanimously after a second by Council member Gordon Young.
Supporters at the meeting argued murals can enliven neglected areas, promote civic engagement and help create a cultural identity that can attract businesses. No public opposition was recorded in the meeting record. Staff noted the approvals followed recommendations from the Planning and Zoning Commission and the city’s community development department.
The approvals are limited to the specific properties listed in the ordinances and to the temporary display period spelled out in the Big Picture Peoria agreement. Council members briefly discussed the possibility of expanding painted murals on other buildings in the future but did not take formal action on additional policy changes.
Big Picture Peoria and city staff will proceed under the terms of the ordinances and the five-year agreement; permit conditions, maintenance responsibilities and any time-limited restrictions will be enforced according to city code and the approved contract.
Councilmembers cast unanimous votes on both items, and execution of the agreement was authorized by city staff.