Boulder’s Arts Commission has taken significant steps to enhance the city’s public art landscape, approving two major projects during their recent meeting on March 26, 2025. The commission has recommended the initiation of art selection panels for the Central Avenue Bridge and the renovation of Fire Stations 2 and 4, both of which will incorporate public art funded through the city’s 1% for art program.

The first project focuses on the Central Avenue Bridge, where plans include either a mural or a mosaic application. The total budget allocated for this project is $25,000, which will cover the costs associated with artist proposals and the selection process. The commission aims to kick off the project with an orientation meeting in the coming months, with the request for proposals (RFP) expected to be released this summer.

The second project involves Fire Stations 2 and 4, with a combined budget of $250,000 for public art. The commission is considering whether to issue two separate calls for artists, one for each fire station, or to combine the budgets for a single impactful project at the Broadway and Baseline location. This decision will be finalized during the upcoming orientation meeting.

Both projects will feature dedicated art selection panels composed of local artists, community members, and arts professionals, ensuring that the selection process is inclusive and representative of Boulder’s diverse community. The panels will also include technical review committees to oversee the projects' implementation.

The Arts Commission's initiatives reflect a commitment to enriching Boulder’s cultural landscape and engaging the community in the artistic process. As these projects move forward, they promise to enhance public spaces and foster a greater appreciation for the arts within the city.