Workspaces & Wayside: Public Art at ESS South

Background

The City of Durham’s Cultural and Public Art Program is seeking an Artist, Artist Team, or Artist and Fabricator Team to create site-specific public art installations at the Environmental & Street Services South (E&S Services South) facility located at 1100 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Durham, NC. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize and expand the campus to better serve the growing needs of Durham. The total budget for this public art project is $217,000, which will cover all aspects from design through installation.

Work Details

The project will support two major art components: 1) Artwork for collaborative spaces that enhance high-use areas such as outdoor staff gathering areas and training rooms; 2) Streetside-integrated Artwork visible from Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway that establishes a landmark presence. The selected Artist(s) will work closely with the City, design team, and construction team during both the design and construction phases to ensure high-quality integrated public artwork. Key scope elements include:

Concept Development

Collaborate with stakeholders to develop a concept that aligns with project goals.

Design Presentation

Provide detailed design drawings and materials specifications.

Structural Review

Work with a licensed structural engineer for safety compliance.

Community Engagement

Lead community meetings to gather input on designs.

Fabrication and Installation

Manage logistics for transporting and assembling the artwork.

Maintenance Plan

Provide a comprehensive maintenance plan for the artwork's longevity.

Period of Performance

The contract will be performed from 2026 through 2028, coinciding with the design and construction phases of the new operations center.

Place of Performance

The contract will be performed at the Environmental & Street Services South facility located at 1100 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Durham, NC.

Bidder Requirements

Candidates must have experience in large-scale public art projects and demonstrate a commitment to community engagement. They must also provide evidence of their ability to manage budgets, schedules, contractors, and stakeholder communication for projects of similar scope. Insurance requirements include Commercial General Liability insurance with limits of no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate.