There is no recommendation as this item is to update the City Council on the grant and requirements for it.  No formal action will be taken.

In April 2021, the Billings Industrial Revitalization District, in cooperation with Mayor Bill Cole, applied for a public art grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies as a part of their Asphalt Art Initiative.  This initiative supports projects in cities across the country who are using art to change the way people interact with their public infrastructure.  In September 2021, the City of Billings was awarded the full grant amount of $25,000 for the proposal as one of just 26 cities across the United States. The location that was proposed was the street on the east side of North Park and adjacent to the Explorer's Academy.  The temporary public art project will cover the street on N. 19th from 6th Ave. North to 7th Ave. North.  This location was selected because it is used daily by local employees, students at the Explorer's Academy and North Park area residents. The design and installation process will include community members.  The design will be presented to City Council for approval at a City Council meeting in February 2022. The Billings, Montana City Code (BMCC) Section 22-101 states that "It is unlawful for any person, without the permission of the city council, to paint or mark upon, or make any alterations in the color of any sidewalk, curb or pavement in the city or to paint, mark or write any sign, letters or words with crayon, paint or other material, upon any such sidewalk, curb or pavement."  Because the BMCC specifically states that any painting on pavement must be approved by the City Council, it is necessary that the City Council approve a resolution to allow the project to move forward. City staff will present specific information for the grant and the resolution.

Alternatives were not analyzed as no formal action will be taken at the work session.

There are no fiscal effects associated with this work session item as no formal action will be taken.