How Columbus Is Rethinking Its Approach To Public Art

High Street, especially around the Short North, has long operated as the center of Columbus’ arts and culture scene. As part of the city’s Streetscape Improvements Project, High Street may soon become a haven of public art, as well.

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Columbus is dedicating $25.5 million to rethink and reshape High Street between Goodale Park and Ninth Street, eliminating a traffic lane and making the area more hospitable to pedestrians. But that project isn't just about convenience and safety.

City Council just approved an $81,000 contract with the Columbus-based firmDesigning Local to create a strategic public art plan, something that officials hope will pave the way toward a city-wide master plan for designing and employing public art.

Amanda Golden, the managing principal of Designing Local, says the city doesn't want to simply come into an area and say, "This artwork goes here."

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Chris Alexakisart, economics