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Resident proposes public‑art ordinance and pocket parks to enliven Clark’s downtown
Summary
Artist and Clark resident Gabrielle Aruta urged the planning board to pursue ordinances or developer requirements that fund public art, murals and pocket parks as part of downtown redevelopment, and asked the board to coordinate with the town council on zoning approaches.
Gabrielle Aruta, a long‑time Clark resident and gallery owner, used the Feb. 5 planning board public‑comment period to urge the township to adopt policies that support public art and small public spaces in the downtown. Aruta proposed tying developer contributions to public‑art programming, creating mural opportunities on existing walls, and developing pocket parks or plazas in underused spaces such as Campbell Place.
Aruta said public art and small gathering spaces would improve walkability and community well‑being as the township adds new downtown housing. She cited recent murals and recommended outreach to local businesses and cultural organizations, including the Polish Cultural Foundation, to identify potential sites and funding. The board responded that ordinance changes would start at the town council level and, if zoning changes are proposed, the planning board would review them in public hearings.
Board members expressed interest and noted the process would likely involve council action and subsequent zoning referrals to the planning board. Aruta said she will follow up with council and return to the planning board if and when the council advances ordinance language or a zoning change for review.
