SUBJECT
title
A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Laredo, Texas authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant application in the amount of $100,000.00 to Bloomberg Philanthropies for the Asphalt Art Initiative Grant Application to transform the downtown area by providing safer and vibrant spaces by using visual art interventions on roadways, pedestrian spaces, and public infrastructure; The program will assist by using art and design to improve street safety, revitalize public spaces, and engage the community. Grant application has no match requirements. Funding will be available in the Capital Grants Fund.
body
PREVIOUS COUNCIL ACTION
N/A
BACKGROUND
The City of Laredo has been invited by the Bloomberg Philanthropies to apply for the Asphalt Art Initiative, a program that helps cities create arts-driven street redesigns that can improve traffic safety, develop vibrant public spaces, and engage residents. The Asphalt Art Initiative responds to the growing number of cities around the world embracing art as an effective and relatively low-cost strategy to improve and enrich their streets. The initiative focuses on “asphalt art”, including visual interventions on roadways (intersections and crosswalks), pedestrian spaces (plazas and sidewalks), and vertical infrastructure (utility boxes, traffic barriers, and underpasses). The Asphalt Art Initiative Grant Program invites cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States to apply.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION
N/A
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
Staff recommends approval of this item.
end
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Year: 2025
Budgeted Y/N?: N
Source of Funds: Capital Grants
Account #: 458
Change Order: Exceeds 25% Y/N: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
Funding will be accounted for in the Capital Grants Fund.
No monetary impact to general fund. However, in-kind contributions in the form of staff and department services will be added to the application.