Parkside Avenue Improvements Public Art Benches

Background
The City of Buffalo, NY is seeking artists for the Parkside Avenue Improvements project. This initiative aims to enhance the streetscape and install public art in the form of two functional and sculptural benches at the intersection of Parkside Avenue and Linden/Depew Avenue. It is part of a broader effort to improve the area between Amherst Street and Hertel Avenue, including intersection reconfiguration and landscape enhancements.

Work Details
Artists are invited to submit proposals for the design, fabrication, and installation of two public art benches. The total budget for this project is $46,800, which includes all costs associated with planning, design, materials, equipment, and installation. The benches must be culturally appropriate, represent the character of the surrounding neighborhood, and be resistant to outdoor elements. Specific design parameters include:
- A usable seating area of approximately 6 feet in length and 18 inches in depth
- Armrests at a height of 24 inches above grade
- A seat height of about 17 inches
- An overall length of up to 12 feet
- An overall depth of approximately 4 feet
- An overall height of up to 6 feet
Materials should be durable, high-strength, non-combustible, UV-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. Each bench will be surface-mounted on a concrete pad that is larger than the bench itself.

Period of Performance
The anticipated timeline for this project includes proposal submissions due by September 26, 2025. Committee selection will occur in October 2025, with contract execution with the selected artist in November 2025. Construction improvements are expected to begin in mid-2026.

Place of Performance
The artwork will be installed at the intersection of Parkside Avenue and Linden/Depew Avenue in Buffalo, NY.

Bidder Requirements
Any artist, architect, or designer may submit proposals. Collaborative team submissions are also welcomed. Employees of the City of Buffalo are excluded from consideration. Proposals must include:
- A completed entry form
- A current professional resume emphasizing public art experience
- Photos of five relevant past works clearly labeled with details about each piece
- A proposed artwork statement detailing how the submission meets the project's goals.