TITLE: Title
Mural Update in Support of Black Lives Matter
PURPOSE: The purpose of this item is for the Town Council to approve the logistics of painting a mural in support of Black Lives Matter.
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DEPARTMENT: Recreation Parks and Cultural Resources, Planning and Public Works
CONTACT INFORMATION: Anita Jones-McNair, amcnair@townofcarrboro.org <mailto:amcnair@townofcarrboro.org>, 919-918-7381, Patricia McGuire, pmcguire@townofcarrboro.org <mailto:pmcguire@townofcarrboro.org>, 919-918-7327, and Daniel Snipes, dsnipes@townofcarrboro.org <mailto:dsnipes@townofcarrboro.org>, 919-918-7432
INFORMATION: The Council approved at the June 23, 2020 meeting to move forward with using Black Lives Matter and End Racism Now as messaging in upcoming mural(s), along with directing staff to work with Sekou Keita, Carrboro resident and artist on logistics and present option(s) for Council consideration.
Staff met with Mr. Keita and he has expressed moving forward with one unified message “END RACISM NOW” installed on Laurel Avenue as a representation of the Town of Carrboro’s support for Black Lives Matter. See attached design - (Attachment A). He believes a streamline focus will help create a unified message.
His recommendation falls under the following type of installation -
Town right -of way, public street, open to traffic - Town staff will request approval from the Federal Highway Administration for an alternative pavement treatment on Laurel Avenue using the prepared draft letter. The Town is extremely careful in its adherence to FHWA standards for traffic control, signage, painting, et cetera as these uniform standards seek to communicate clearly with local residents and those travelling on town streets from other places about where and how to use the streets safely as drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. We anticipate a two to four month wait time to receive a decision from FHWA. Staff will also work with a licensed engineer on type of paint and letter spacing due to vehicular traffic, including bicyclists.
Mr. Keita intends to take headshot photos to raise funds for this project, recruit volunteers and create a short documentary that highlights the positive aspects of the town and the importance of the mural through the eyes of all who helped with the project. The funds raised can cover supplies and paint. Staff completed a preliminary estimate of $3,000 for this project.
FISCAL & STAFF IMPACT: The fiscal impact varies based on specific actions.
RECOMMENDATION:r Staff recommends that the Town Council approve moving forward with Mr. Keita’s recommendation; and that the total costs, not to exceed $5,000, could be funded from the current FY21 Non-Departmental operating budget should the Council want to move forward with the project.