FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF APRIL 2, 2024
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
TO: City Council
FROM: Interim City Manager Alex Posada
BY: Interim Recreation and Parks Director Angela Oslund
SUBJECT: Adoption of a Resolution Approving a Transportation Art Maintenance Agreement
Description:
The City Council will consider approving the Transportation Art Maintenance Agreement with the California Department of Transportation.
Environmental Notice: The activity is not a “Project” as defined under Section 15378 of the California Environmental Quality Act State Guidelines; therefore, pursuant to State Guidelines Section 15060(c)(3) no environmental review is required.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt a Resolution allowing the City of Santa Maria to enter in to a Transportation Maintenance Agreement with the California Department of T ransportation for the decorative painting and maintenance of 15 utility boxes.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Santa Maria Utility Box Art project, inaugurated in 201 6, has flourished over the years, resulting in the installation of art on 14 utility boxes throughout the city. This initiative emerged as a collaborative effort between local artists, community organizations, and city officials, with the aim of transforming mundane utilit y infrastructure into vibrant showcases of creativity. Since its inception, the project has gained momentum, attracting a growing number of artists eager to contribute their talents to the city's streetscape. With each new installation, the Utility Box Art project not only adds color and character to Santa Maria's urban environment but also serves as a testament to the city's commitment to fostering artistic expression, community engagement, and civic pride.
DISCUSSION:
The proposed expansion of the Utili ty Box Art project along Broadway S treet/Highway 135 signifies a significant step towards enriching Santa Maria's public spaces with art while fostering community engagement and civic pride. With the collaboration between the Recreation and Parks Department, non-profit partner PLAY, Inc., and selected artists, this initiative promises to further enhance the cultural vibrancy of our city. However, it is imperative to address the logistical considerations associated with maintaining the artwork along Broadway Street, a thoroughfare under California Department of 2 Transportation (Caltrans) jurisdiction. By authorizing the Transportation Art Maintenance Agreement, the City demonstrates its commitment to preserving these artistic assets and ensuring their longevit y amidst the demands of public infrastructure. Moreover, the expansion of the Utility Box Art project not only contributes to the beautification of our urban landscape but also presents an opportunity to promote local artists and strengthen community partnerships.
Alternative(s)
Maintain the status quo and not expand the Utility Box Art project along Broadway Street This would avoid the complexities of working with Caltrans and the need for a Transportation Art Maintenance agreement.
The City could redirect the Utility Box Art project to streets it manages. Focusing on local residential or commercial areas would simplify implementation and maintenance. This approach may limit the project's impact, excluding the prominent thoroughfare of Broadway Street from benefiting from artistic enhancements.
Fiscal Considerations
The expansion of the Utility Box Art project along Broadway St reet is projected to have no financial impact on the City. Funds necessary for the project have been successfully raised through the collaborative efforts of the Recreation and Parks Department and its partner, PLAY, Inc.
Impact to the Community
The Utility Box Art project is expected to positively impact the community by enhancing public spaces, fostering civic pride, and promoting cultural vibrancy through visually stimulating installations.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A- Caltrans Transportation Art Maintenance Agreement