Workspaces & Wayside: Public Art at ESS South

@CreativeDurham
Arts@DurhamNC.Gov
DurhamNC.Gov/5529
Workspaces & Wayside:
Public Art at ESS South
Request For Interest (RFI)
CALL FOR
ARTISTS

Call for Artists: Request for Interest (RFI)
Workspaces & Wayside: Public Art at ESS South
Date Issued: May 18, 2026
RFI Deadline to Apply: 3:00 p.m. ET, June 18, 2026
The City of Durham's Cultural and Public Art Program (referred to as "City") is seeking an Artist, Artist Team, or
Artist and Fabricator Team (referred to as "Candidates") with experience in creating site-specific public art
installations at the upcoming Environmental & Street Services South (E&S Services South), located at 1100
Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Durham, NC, 27707. This project is part of a broader initiative to modernize and
expand the campus to better serve Durham's growing needs. The total budget for this public art project is
$217,000, encompassing all aspects of the project from design through to installation, which will support two
major art components:
1. Artwork for collaborative spaces
2. Streetside-integrated Artwork visible from Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway
The selected Artist(s) will be contracted during the design and construction phases of the facility, working
closely with the City, design team, and construction team to ensure high-quality, integrated public artwork that
enhances both the facility and the public realm. The selected Artist(s) will be under contract throughout the
design & construction phases of the new operations center, from 2026 through 2028.
Early site rendering of new operations center.
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20. Project Manager and Contact with City; Questions about this RFI.................................................................. 2
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AND NATURE OF RFI........................................................................................................ 2
30. Project .............................................................................................................................................................. 2
31. Site Description ................................................................................................................................................ 3
32. Project Background .......................................................................................................................................... 3
33. Community Engagement .................................................................................................................................. 4
40. Scope of Work .................................................................................................................................................. 5
50. Project Budget and Compensation Amount .................................................................................................... 6
60. Definitions in this RFI: City, RFI, Proposal, Candidate, Contractor, Should ..................................................... 6
70. Contract ............................................................................................................................................................ 6
70.1 Interpretation and translation services ......................................................................................................... 6
100. Insurance Requirements of Selected Candidate(s) ........................................................................................ 6
110. Discretion of the City ...................................................................................................................................... 6
SCHEDULE ................................................................................................................................................................... 6
120. Proposed Schedule ......................................................................................................................................... 6
140. Deadline to Receive Submissions ................................................................................................................... 6
141. Concurrent Release Notice............................................................................................................................. 6
GETTING MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROJECT AND RFI PROCESS ....................................................................... 6
150. Questions........................................................................................................................................................ 6
151. Pre-submittal Meeting ................................................................................................................................... 6
EVALUATION CRITERIA ............................................................................................................................................... 6
180. Evaluation Criteria .......................................................................................................................................... 6
190. Call for Artists/RFI Eligibility ........................................................................................................................... 6
200. Project Partners .............................................................................................................................................. 6
240. RFI Submission RequirementsThe RFI submissions shall include the following: ........................................... 6
300. Candidate to Bear Expense; No Claims against City ...................................................................................... 6
310. State Treasurer's lists regarding Iran and Boycott of Israel ........................................................................... 6
320. Notice Under the Americans with Disabilities Act ......................................................................................... 6
330. Values of City of Durham regarding Treatment of Employees of Contractors .............................................. 6
Sample Artist Contract and Non-Collusion Affidavit .................................................................................................. 6
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20. Project Manager and Contact with City; Questions about this RFI
Direct questions and concerns to:
Att: Stephanie Minor
Cultural & Public Art Program
General Services Department
2011 Fay Street
Durham, NC 27704
(919) 560-4197, ext. 21243
stephanie.minor@durhamnc.gov
If you have concerns about this RFI that you believe are not being addressed by the project manager, please
contact:
Att: Rebecca Holmes
Cultural & Public Art Program Manager
General Services Department
2011 Fay Street
Durham, NC 27704
(919) 560-4197, ext. 21245
rebecca.holmes@durhamnc.gov
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT AND NATURE OF RFI
30. Project
The City of Durham is undertaking a major renovation of its Environmental & Street Services South location. As
part of this multi-year project, the City is commissioning public art that will be integrated into both the facility's
collaborative interiors and its public-facing exterior. This RFI seeks to identify Candidates with the vision and
technical experience to deliver site-specific, durable, and impactful artwork.
The goals of this public art project are to:
1. Enhance Collaborative Spaces
Prioritize high-use areas such as outdoor staff gathering areas, interior flex/breakout spaces, and
training rooms. Artwork should create colorful, comfortable, and inviting environments that foster
interaction, creativity, and pride in the workplace.
2. Create a Streetside Landmark
Develop a large-scale, durable, and integrated facade or window treatment that establishes a
landmark presence along Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. The work should strengthen the
building's civic identity and be clearly visible from the street, potentially incorporating custom
glazing, laminated glass, dichroic finishes, or other architectural treatments.
3. Celebrate Sustainability
Incorporate design elements that interpret and highlight the building's sustainable features, such
as daylighting or renewable energy systems, making environmental stewardship visible and
engaging to staff and the public.
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Through this Request for Interest, the City seeks to identify Candidates with demonstrated experience in large-
scale public art and interest in site-integrated design. The selected Candidate(s) will work collaboratively with
City staff, design architects (CPL Team), and construction manager at risk (CT Wilson Construction Company).
The selected Candidate(s) will work to:
* engage City staff and residents of Durham through in-person engagement sessions;
* develop community-informed designs for public artwork that visually connects to the site and/or
recognizes historical, cultural, and/or sustainable aspects of the center and the site;
* aim to beautify areas that are collaboratively identified by the community, City staff, and the
Artist(s);
* design, fabricate, and install site-specific artwork that is integrated into the site.
For more information on this project visit: www.durhamnc.gov/5529
31. Site Description
The Environmental & Street Services South (E&S Services South) is located at 1100 Martin Luther King Jr.
Parkway, Durham, NC. The campus is a secured, City-owned facility with access limited to staff and contractors.
The site fronts Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, giving the facility a highly visible streetside presence. This facade
offers the greatest opportunity for public-facing artwork that can serve as a civic marker for Durham. Inside the
campus, circulation is designed for staff, service vehicles, and equipment storage, with collaborative spaces
planned for renovation.
Although the site itself is closed to the public, it is surrounded by accessible green space and community
amenities:
* Third Fork Creek Trail - a multi-use greenway running nearby, part of Durham's extensive trail
network.
* Southern Boundaries Park - located just north of the facility, this large public park includes
athletic fields, open space, and direct connections to the Third Fork Creek Trail.
The proximity of the trail and park brings steady pedestrian, bicycle, and recreational traffic to the area, adding
to the visibility and impact potential of public art placed along the MLK-facing frontage.
32. Project Background
The City of Durham is advancing a comprehensive renovation of its Environmental & Street Services South
location. This project is designed to replace outdated facilities, increase operational efficiency, and bring the
campus into compliance with modern standards. The project is currently in the site design phase, with
completion anticipated by early 2028.
Environmental & Street Services (ESS) is responsible for maintaining and enhancing Durham's essential
infrastructure and environmental systems. The department oversees street maintenance and repair, solid waste
and recycling services, stormwater management, snow and ice removal, and right-of-way maintenance. ESS also
manages engineering and inspection services that support new development and public infrastructure projects.
Together, these functions ensure the City's streets, drainage systems, and waste operations are safe, reliable,
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and sustainable, forming the backbone of everyday city operations and quality of life in Durham.
Key scope elements include:
* New Administration and Operations Building - consolidating staff and services into a single,
efficient facility.
* Utility Upgrades - installation of a new water line and stormwater infrastructure improvements.
* New Vehicle Wash Facility - constructed to meet environmental and operational requirements
for fleet maintenance.
* Demolition of Floodplain Structures - removal of existing buildings in flood-prone areas to reduce
long-term risk and improve site resilience.
* Site Enhancements - addition of a bioretention pond, circulation improvements, and reconfigured
site layout to optimize vehicle and equipment access.
The design is being led by CPL Team (architects) with CT Wilson Construction Company engaged as the
Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR).
Design is expected to continue through April 2026, followed by bidding in May-June 2026. Construction is
tentatively scheduled to begin in July 2026 and continue through November 2027. The renovated campus will
provide a modern, sustainable, and consolidated base of operations to support essential services for the City of
Durham.
Funding
The funding for this public art project is provided through the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The CIP is a
critical component of Durham's long-term financial planning, focusing on the development, maintenance, and
enhancement of public infrastructure and community assets. For more information on the CIP, visit the City's
official website here:
https://durhamnc.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=b61fe1f535e347ef9c0036299a5b02fb
To learn more about the City's Percent-for-Art Program, visit the City's website here:
https://www.durhamnc.gov/3312/Resources-FAQs
33. Community Engagement
To reflect the community's voice, the selected Candidate(s) for this project will plan and facilitate inclusive and
accessible community engagement activities to encourage staff & resident input and participation as outlined in
the "Scope of Work" section. The selected Candidate(s) will be expected to lead, host, facilitate, and participate
in community and staff engagement activities before finalizing their designs to gather feedback from Durham
residents. The City of Durham may use virtual platforms to assist the Candidate(s) throughout the engagement
process. The selected Candidate(s) will work with the City's contracted site design team, Environmental & Street
Services, resident committees, and City staff to plan and coordinate their community engagement plans.
40. Scope of Work
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The specifics of this project's scope of work will be defined by the selected Artist(s) in collaboration with the
City. The services and obligations that will be required from the Candidate during the contract period include,
but are not necessarily limited to:
1. Design Phase:
a. Concept Development: Collaborate with the City of Durham's Cultural & Public Art
Program, s Environmental & Street Services, the City's contracted site designer, and
community stakeholders to develop a concept that aligns with the project's goals and
resonates with the local community.
b. Design Presentation: Provide detailed design drawings, materials specifications, and
lighting plans, as applicable. This phase will include steps for feedback and approvals from
City departments and residents, and a presentation and approval from the Public Art
Committee.
c. Structural Review: work with a licensed structural engineer to review the design for public
safety and provide signed and sealed (stamped) engineering drawings for all structural
components of the installation. These drawings must meet all applicable local, state, and
federal codes and will be submitted to the City for review and permitting.
d. Community Engagement: Design and lead community meetings and workshops to gather
input and refine the design, ensuring it reflects the community's desires and values.
2. Fabrication and Materials:
a. Material Selection: Choose materials that are resistant to weather, corrosion, fading, and
vandalism, suitable for both indoor & outdoor installation as specified in the project goals.
b. Construction: Fabricate the artwork according to the approved design, ensuring all
components are structurally sound and comply with safety standards.
3. Installation:
a. Site Preparation: Coordinate with the City's project team to ensure the site is prepared for
installation, including necessary foundations and infrastructure.
b. Transportation and Assembly: Manage the logistics of transporting the artwork to the site
and assembling it securely.
c. Integration: Ensure the artwork integrates seamlessly with existing site features, such as
pathways, water features, and landscaping.
4. Lighting and Electrical Work:
a. Lighting Design: Incorporate lighting elements that enhance the artwork's visibility and
impact, considering both daytime and nighttime aesthetics.
b. Electrical Coordination: Subcontract with a licensed electrical team to ensure all lighting
components are safely installed and meet code requirements.
5. Artist Mentee:
a. To strengthen Durham's creative economy and expand opportunities for local artists, the
selected Artist or Artist team will include an Artist Mentee, an emerging or mid-career
artist, based in Durham or the surrounding region who will support the development and
implementation of the public art installations.
b. Ensure meaningful artistic integration and mentorship under the lead Artist(s), with public
credit and inclusion in documentation and promotional materials.
6. Maintenance and Documentation:
a. Maintenance Plan: Provide a comprehensive maintenance plan including budget, timeline,
and materials detailing recommended care and upkeep to ensure the artwork's longevity.
b. Documentation: Submit high-quality photographs (with photo credits) and descriptions of
the completed installation for archival purposes and promotional use.
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c. Coordination with Site Development: The Artist or team will work closely with the City of
Durham's Parks and Recreation Department and the project's construction management
team to ensure seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
d. Permits and Compliance: The Artist is responsible for coordinating all necessary permits,
inspections, and compliance with local and state codes related to the final artwork, water
features, and public safety.
50.Project Budget and Compensation Amount
The selected Artist or Artist Team will have an estimated total public art project budget of up to $217,000,
inclusive of all costs associated with this public art project including, but not limited to: artist fees, other
subcontractors' fees, insurance that meets the standards of the City of Durham, engineering, materials,
fabrication costs, transportation, installation of the artwork, community engagement, and documentation of the
artwork on site.
A maximum budget of $1,000 within the total contract may be allocated towards engagement sessions for
materials, engagement session needs, and/or a local consultant/facilitator (18 or older) that will collaboratively
work with the City and the selected Artist or artist team to facilitate community engagement.
A planned budget of $2,000 within the total contract may be allocated towards an Artist Mentee (18 or older) as
part of the project team. The mentee will work alongside the lead artist(s) during the design, fabrication, and/or
installation phases to gain hands-on experience with a large-scale public art commission.
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The following is a proposed budget of total project costs:
Indoor Collaborative Space Artwork - $97,000
Category Amount Notes
Artist Fees $18,000 Concept design, project management, meetings, travel &
lodging if required, and coordination with the design and
construction team.
Artist Mentee $ 3,000 Stipend for a local, emerging artist to participate in the
project, supporting mentorship and workforce
development.
Design Development $ 5,000 Design documentation, renderings, and materials
research.
Fabrication & $60,000 Production of artwork, finishes, and durable interior
Materials materials.
Transportation & $ 5,000 Equipment rental, rigging, labor, and site preparation.
Installation
Insurance, Permits & $ 4,000 Liability insurance, permitting, and
Engineering technical/structural review.
Contingency $ 2,000 Unforeseen expenses or design adjustments.
Total $97,000
Streetside Landmark Artwork - $120,000
Category Amount Notes
Artist Fees $23,000 Concept design, project management, meetings, travel &
lodging if required, and coordination with the design and
construction team.
Design Development $10,000 Structural, glazing, or facade integration drawings;
& Engineering engineering review and stamped documents.
Fabrication & $60,000 Exterior artwork production, durable facade-integrated
Materials components. Artwork signage.
Transportation & $10,000 Specialized installation support, crane/equipment
Installation rental, rigging, and labor.
Insurance, Permits & $5,000 Liability insurance, permits, required inspections, and
Lighting Design lighting design.
Lighting $9,000 Lighting fixtures, licensed electrician.
Contingency $3,000 Unforeseen costs related to fabrication or installation.
Total $120,000
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60. Definitions in this RFI: City, RFI, Proposal, Candidate, Contractor, Should
Unless the context indicates otherwise - (a) The expressions "RFI," "this RFI," and "the RFI" refer to this
document as it may be amended or updated. (b) "City" and "city" mean the City of Durham. (c) The
"submission" or "application" is the response of a person, firm, or corporation proposing to provide the services
sought by this RFI. (d) The word "Candidate" or "candidate" is the person, firm, or corporation that submits an
application or that is considering submitting an application. (e) The word "Contractor" or "contractor" is the
person, firm, or corporation with which the City enters into a contract to provide the services sought by this RFI.
That is, "contractor" generally refers to a successful candidate that has obtained a fully executed contract with
the City, while "candidate" is generally reserved to the stage before a contract has been signed. (f) The word
"should" is used to tell candidates what the City thinks it wants and/or what the project manager thinks is best.
Candidates that want to increase the likelihood of being selected will, in general, do what the RFI says
candidates "should" do, but failure to comply with all "shoulds" will not necessarily and automatically result in
rejection.
70. Contract
The City anticipates that at the conclusion of the RFI process there will be a contract between the City and the
successful candidate under which the successful candidate will provide the goods and services generally
described in this RFI. It is the City's intention to use the contract that is attached as Exhibit A, modified and filled
in to reflect the RFI and the proposal.
If a candidate objects to any of the contract provisions, it should state the objections in its submission. Failure to
provide objections creates an assumption that the candidate accepts all standard City contract terms and
conditions.
70.1 Interpretation and translation services
Interpretation and translation services are available to you at no cost. If you need them, please contact us at
arts@durhamnc.gov or (919) 560-4197, ext. 21243, by: May 28, 2026.
Hay servicios de interpretacion y traduccion a su disposicion sin costo alguno. Si los necesita, pongase en
contacto con nosotros mandando un correo electronico a arts@durhamnc.gov o llamando a (919) 560-4197, ext.
21243, antes del 28 de mayo de 2026
80-90. Intentionally left out (staff note)
100. Insurance Requirements of Selected Candidate(s)
* Selected Candidates(s) may be required to carry Automobile Liability insurance with limits of no
less than $1,000,000 Combined Single Limit. Coverage shall include liability for Owned, Non-
Owned and Hired automobiles. In the event Contractor does not own automobiles, Contractor
agrees to maintain coverage for Hired and Non-Owned Auto Liability, which may be satisfied by
way of endorsement to the Commercial General Liability policy or separate Auto Liability policy.
* Selected Candidate(s) will be required to carry Commercial General Liability insurance with a
combined single limit of no less than $1,000,000 for each occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate.
The Candidate(s) agrees to endorse the City as an Additional Insured on the Commercial General
Liability. The Additional Insured shall read "City of Durham as its interest may appear".
* Selected Candidates(s) may be required to carry Worker's Compensation & Employers Liability
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