The City of Moorhead's Art and Culture Commission is moving forward with an exciting initiative to enhance the community's artistic landscape through the installation of new sidewalk stamps. During the recent meeting on March 17, 2025, the commission discussed plans to incorporate local art into the sidewalks surrounding the Eleventh Street Underpass, a significant infrastructure project that has been in development for over a decade.

With construction set to take place from April to November, the commission aims to use existing funding from the 2015 Sidewalk Art and Poetry Project, which currently has a balance of approximately $5,000. This funding is specifically allocated for the creation of new sidewalk stamps, with an estimated cost of $300 per stamp. The commission anticipates being able to produce around 16 to 17 new stamps, which will celebrate local artistry and enhance the pedestrian experience in the area.

The commission is actively seeking community involvement in this project. Members expressed a strong desire to open up submissions for new designs, encouraging local artists to contribute their work. This approach not only fosters community engagement but also aims to reflect the diverse artistic talents within Moorhead.

The collaboration with the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has been productive, allowing the city to replace and install stamps in designated areas. The commission is committed to ensuring that the new sidewalk stamps are well-distributed and thematically relevant, similar to previous projects that featured a variety of artistic expressions.

As the project progresses, the commission will continue to evaluate submissions and determine the best use of the allocated funds. This initiative not only beautifies the city but also serves as a celebration of Moorhead's rich cultural heritage, making it a noteworthy development for residents and visitors alike. The commission looks forward to sharing more details in future meetings as the project unfolds.