Feds Take the Art Out of 'Art Alley' Project

Fairhope, Alabama 

 

'Art Alley' project gets go-ahead.

 

PROJECT FINALLY GETS GO-AHEAD

Mayor Sullivan said the Federal Highway Administration has removed the funding for proposed art projects for the so called 'Art Alley' project in the area of the city's parking garage. (Apparently, they did not comply with guidelines for the grant.)

The FHA "disallowed the art component" but the Single Tax Corporation's board of directors could decide to provide the funds instead, she said.

Public Works director Johnson reported he just received a letter from the state giving the go-ahead for  other components to be put out for bids (landscaping, signage, etc). 

The primary goal of the project is to increase use of the city's "ugly" parking garage; a new BRATS Transit Hub Station (with restrooms) is to be constructed on the Church Street side as well.

Most of the cost is to be provided by the Eastern Shore MPO (federal), but the city and county will provide some funding as well.

IDEA BEGAN IN 2016

Consultant Dan Burden of the Walkable Communities Institute suggested the project during a walking tour he conducted here in 2016

"Burden recommended to work with what exists now rather than think about adding new facilities (parking lots?)  -- and to concentrate on improving the parking garage area to make it more accessible/pedestrian friendly.

Burden called the garage area an "ugly eyesore" now but with potential to become a more desirable place for retail and social life: "one of the best public places in America." 

Cleaning up the area and installing plants, artwork, etc. was discussed as well as better signage directing visitors there.

Improving the appearances of the back side of the businesses along the south-side alley with public access to the stores from the rear was also mentioned -- as well as better lightning and security measures."

Dan Burden during 2016 walking tour.