Integrated Design: 1st Avenue Road Corridor Infrastructure Design

The City of Altoona, a fast-growing town in the Southeast Des Moines metropolitan region with a current population of 17,000 expected to grow to 20,000 in the next two years, seeks artists for the Integrated Design project. This public art opportunity focuses on the 1st Avenue corridor stretching from the I-80 exit to 8th Street, an arterial commuter corridor that represents a transition from interstate-side hotels to residential neighborhoods, past the historic section of town, and toward 8th Street.

The corridor enhancements will take place in three phases with several features along their length. Phase I (2018/2019) focuses on the span between the railroad crossing at Olde Town and 9th Street. Phase II (2019/2020) will widen this segment to a boulevard with an 8' shared use path and sidewalk, including stormwater drainage and utility burial. Phase III (2021+) addresses the stretch from Olde Town to 8th Street with traffic calming measures. Key features include a railroad crossing at the Olde Town anchor, a new roundabout at 9th Street, the historic Olde Town area with children's theater and historical society, a trailhead, and the Altoona Coop silos and water tower. The primary design consideration is articulation of Altoona's personality, with successful proposals including aspects of diversity and insightful awareness of the urban environment.

Up to three artists will be selected for funded proposal development at $1,500 each. Selected artists must provide a fully developed concept with appropriate visualization, estimated budget, timeline, artist statement, project description, concept and approach, site plan or analysis, maintenance needs, and evidence of expertise through previous public commissions, museum exhibitions, awards, or collections. The total project budget is expected to fall between $75,000 and $225,000. Application deadline: 9/5/18 at 11:59 p.m. MDT. Applicants must submit 3-6 digital work samples, artist statement (1000 characters max), letter of interest (1 page max), professional resume (3 pages max), and three professional references.