The City of Grand Junction has selected local artist Jeff Bates to create the art installation for the 24 and G Road roundabout.
Bates is a local artist residing in Fruita, with artwork in four different traffic circles in the Grand Junction area, as well as in several countries and in many states. His artwork is made from recycled steel which needs little maintenance due to the high strength and durability of the medium.
The selection process began in July of 2023 with the city announcing a call for artists interested in creating unique public art for the new traffic roundabout. Emphasis was put on artwork composition and examples of past roundabout projects (I-70 and Horizon Drive, Meander Court and Park Drive, I-70 and 24 Road) due to these projects having demonstrated the ability to optimize the use of the available space within the roundabout and features that elevate the artwork.
After initial review by city staff, the three proposals were sent out to the Grand Junction Commission on Art and Culture (GJCAC) on Friday, January 12 for review and final selection.
Funding for this artwork, $148,000, was provided by the city’s Art in Public Places Program, which specifies that 1 percent of certain capital projects be devoted to the acquisition of art. The resolution also lays out the selection process of artwork by GJCAC with facilitation through the Parks and Recreation Department. This ensures consistent funding for artwork on certain city capital projects.