8/18/05
The Chicago Transit Board approved an intergovernmental agreement today to create an initiative that pairs the Chicago Transit Authority and the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs in providing more artwork at CTA rail stations. The two agencies successfully partnered to select artists and artwork for eight renovated stations that were included in the rehabilitation of the 54th/Cermak branch of the Blue Line. As part of the agreement, the City will continue to administer the solicitation, selection, design, creation and installation of public art on behalf of the CTA.
"Art has a way of anchoring CTA stations in the communities we serve and enhancing travel for our customers," said CTA President Frank Kruesi. ?We look forward to renewing our partnership with the City's Public Art program as they have established a successful model on how to manage these types of projects."
Rail stations along the Dan Ryan branch of the Red Line and the Brown Line will benefit from the program as construction projects are currently underway.
Chicago Transit Board Chairman Carole Brown stated, "Public art adds to the overall appearance of rail stations and promotes a friendly, inviting atmosphere. The original works of art placed at each of the newly renovated 54th/Cermak Blue Line stations enrich these facilities which serve as a gateway to the community."
As with the Blue Line arts project, the City will establish separate project advisory panels consisting of City, CTA, art community and neighborhood representatives who will serve as advisors in the selection of the artwork.
The CTA will make the final selection of artwork and maintain ownership rights to all artwork created under this program.
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