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Arts commission reports expanded public art projects, MAPS funding and a first-ever public art master plan
Summary
The Meridian Arts Commission presented recent public-art projects funded under the city's MAPS ordinance and announced the start of a public-art master plan, traffic-box and transit-shelter installations, gallery programming and youth performing-art support.
The Meridian Arts Commission reported to City Council on March 25 about public-art projects completed in 2024 and plans for 2025, including an inaugural public-art master plan process and continued use of MAPS funding for public installations.
Brecken Byrd, chair of the commission, and Cassandra Shifler, the city’s arts and culture coordinator, described projects completed under the Meridian Art in Public Spaces (MAPS) ordinance (2014), which dedicates approximately $0.50 per Meridian resident for public art. Completed projects cited in the presentation included themed bike racks at Discovery Park (from salvaged stainless-steel propane tanks), a fanfare sculpture using reclaimed brass marching-band instruments, multiple traffic-box wraps that showcase Meridian history and student artwork from the West Ada School District, and public-art elements at the Trail Hub.
Commissioners noted a collaboration with Valley Regional Transit and the Meridian Development Corporation for transit-shelter artwork, and said three traffic boxes by professional artists and five student-wrapped boxes were installed. Chateau Park received a new pollinator- and native-flower-themed installation by local artist Ken McCall; the commission plans a public dedication on April 21.
Staff and commissioners also said they have initiated the city’s first public-art master plan; a community survey and public engagement events will follow. The commission reported a busy gallery year with record applications for the Initial Point Gallery, youth performing-arts support for local companies and a popular Concerts on Broadway summer series. Commissioners said temporary murals and interactive events at Kleiner Park drew broad community participation.
The commission requested continued council support for integrated public art opportunities at the community center and for completion of the public-art master plan.
