Now that a contractor has been selected to build the seven-storey, 136 unit affordable housing complex on Langs Drive, the region will begin consulting with the public and area residents on a plan to dress up the property with public art.
The region's administration and finance committee will meet next week to vote on a recommendation to approve up to $150,000 for the project the region will decide on using a two-stage jurying process.
The redevelopment of 581-595 Langs Drive comes after the region took down 38 townhouses on the property that had exceeded their 50-year life span.
The new complex will include a Teen and Youth Centre where the artwork will be placed.
It's across the street from William G. Davis Public School and is highly visible.
Once the expenditure is approved by regional councillors, the region's public art advisory committe will put out a call for submissions to emerging artists by year's end to come up with ideas that consider the history and culture of the surrounding community.
Participation from Langs Drive area residents will be encouraged throughout the process.
Residents will have the opportunity to sit on the jurying committee to select the artwork. Then the general public will have an opportunity to vote on a shortlisted selection of artwork to decide the final acquisition.
Local arts and culture champions and the general public will be notified of the Call for Submissions and subsequent voting opportunities through online engagement platforms and community outreach events.
Waterloo Region Housing transferred $150,000 from its reserve to the public art reserve last year as part of a public art acquisition process described in a regional policy.
That money will be spent over the next two years to complete the art and installation.
The amount is considered sufficient to cover artist fees, production, transportation, installation, maintenance, and jury fees.
