Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/09/2025

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number of Limestone retaining walls which contain plantings and define walkways. The project will aim to make new use of these edges by incorporating plug-in points, seating, lighting, and spaces for gathering. The catalyst project will further activate and orient users to the rivers edge with community activity and bridge the gap between students, locals, and visitors to the town. Step 2: Fundraising While this plan lays out a framework that will be implemented over time, on a project by project scale, if any outside funding is sought, it is suggested to aim high and set an umbrella system for funding. That might happen through a percent for arts program or outside fundraising. Fundraising for public art and creative placemaking in Northfield is recommended as a collective approach rather than an incremental one. It would be strategic to consider an effort, program, or initiative that raises funds for a collection of multiple pieces by several artists which will not only have a more significant impact on the public realm, but will also open up the doors for larger funding opportunities. It is also critical to examine how the collection can build community and integrate into community development, education, and public health efforts that are ongoing in Northfield. For a rural community like Northfield, there are likely some great opportunities for public art and creative placemaking funding through an inter sectional and community building lens. Public art tells stories, helps people feel connected and welcome, educates, fosters safe and vibrant spaces that can result in more connected social fabric. With this approach in mind, we recommend applying for a grant and running a call for artists that includes a variety of pieces, stories, and perspectives, especially those that might tell the untold or unheard stories of the community and place. Some possible funding opportunities including philanthropy and public sector grants are listed below. Funding cycles vary and typically require a year in advance to secure for a project. If applying through the City, look for grants that non-arts organizations are eligible for or consider partnering with a local arts non-profit on a grant application. Running artist calls through a non-profit can be a great way to bring support to local organizations, support artists, and build off local arts and cultural expertise. All municipal projects should work with and involve the Arts Commission. There are a variety of ways that public art can be funding by municipalities including percent for arts programs for new development, and budget requests to engage artists in community engagement and public building capital projects. It is recommended to anchor funding proposals in regional visions like the Riverfront Action Plan principles that root public art in ongoing community development efforts. 1 ) ESTABLISH Northfield's Cannon River Regional Park 2) ENHANCE and activate your riverfront parks 3) COMPLETE your local and regional trail system 4) EXPLORE Ames Mill Dam reconstruction options 5) PROMOTE economic development and tourist destination