Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Art topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves 'Happy Hydrants' refresh and downtown utility-box mural program
Summary
The commission authorized a city-led Happy Hydrant refresh and a single downtown utility-box mural program that require MidPeninsula Water System approval; commissioners appointed two members to an ad hoc review committee and set an application process for artists and community volunteers.
Belmont’s Parks and Recreation Commission voted Wednesday to launch a Happy Hydrant refresh and a downtown utility-box art program, and to appoint an ad hoc subcommittee to review artist applications.
Staff told commissioners the MidPeninsula Water System (MidPen) — which owns the fire hydrants — has approved an approved list of hydrant locations (mostly along the Ralston Avenue and Alameda de las Pulgas corridors) that may be repainted under a city-led program. Staff said there are about 24 approved hydrants available for repainting under MidPen’s conditions, and that painters must use specified paint types and color limits so hydrant operation and visibility are not compromised.
The program will also include a single utility-box mural in downtown Belmont (near Sixth Avenue and Ralston). Applicants for the utility-box mural must show prior experience with large-scale exterior painting; the city will reimburse up to $250 for art supplies for the utility-box artist. For hydrants, staff said the intent is to enable families and volunteer artists to participate; the city will explore providing paint supplies or partner discounts to support volunteers.
Commissioners asked about outreach to schools, availability of paint and whether older painted hydrants are grandfathered; staff said MidPen sets the technical and safety requirements and that the city will distribute application materials online and to local art groups and schools.
The commission appointed two commissioners to an ad hoc selection committee and approved the program by voice vote. During roll call the commission recorded unanimous support for the motion (6–0). Staff said the application packet and map of approved locations would appear on the city website once final administrative steps are complete.
Ending: Staff said the program launch will be phased: the application period, review by the ad hoc selection committee and MidPen approval, followed by scheduling of painting work. If uptake is limited in a first round, staff said they would open additional rounds or expand outreach to artists and schools.
