Longmont Bridge Collaboration: Public Art Commission

The Art in Public Places Commission of the City of Longmont invites artists from Colorado and neighboring states to apply for a bridge pedestal public art project. Following the September 2013 flood that impacted Longmont's infrastructure, the first bridge to be replaced is Highway 287 (Main Street) over the St. Vrain creek. This state highway spans 102 miles from the Wyoming border to Denver, connecting more than 10 cities and sees approximately 43,000 vehicles per day. The bridge will serve as a gateway to Longmont's Creative District, recognized by Colorado Creative Industries in 2014.

Six masonry pedestals will adorn the bridge design. Artists may propose artwork for the two large pedestals on the north ends, the four smaller ones in the middle, or all six. Artwork will be visible to vehicles traveling over the bridge as well as pedestrians, bicyclists, and greenway users passing underneath. A $150,000 budget has been allocated, with additional funds being sought for up to $200,000 total.

Eligibility: Artists from Colorado and bordering states with experience successfully completing large-scale projects of $100,000 or more. Preference given to artists with collaborative experience with design teams and government entities. Materials must be durable, low to no maintenance, and withstand extreme Colorado conditions. All designs require structural engineer approval and CDOT final approval. Submissions due July 20, 2015. Up to five finalists will be invited to view the site and meet the project team; finalists receive a $1,500 stipend post-presentation. Winner announced October 1, 2015. Fabrication: November 1, 2015 - May 1, 2016. Installation: Summer 2016.