The City of Flagstaff is inviting residents to contribute their ideas for a new three-dimensional landmark art feature that will be installed at the intersection of East Cedar Avenue and North West Street. This installation is part of the Spruce Wash Wedge Detention Project, which aims to improve flood mitigation in the area.
Jana Weldon, program manager for Beautification, Arts & Sciences, emphasized the importance of local input: “If you live on the Eastside or have a strong connection to this area, the artist team wants to hear from you. This is your chance to share what makes this part of Flagstaff special.”
Weldon also highlighted how community engagement shapes public art projects: “Community input is an important part of the public art process. From selecting the artist team to developing concepts and final designs, community voices guide every stage. This ensures the artwork is impactful, enduring, and truly made by the community for the community.”
Survey responses will be reviewed by the selected artist team to identify common themes and visions for future development. These insights will inform initial design concepts, with another opportunity for public feedback planned during a review period in 2026.
The upcoming artwork will be integrated into improvements at a reconfigured promontory that includes a new retaining wall and expanded sidewalk landing as part of broader watershed upgrades.
Last spring, Haddad|Drugan was chosen as the project’s artist team by a panel including members from city commissions, staff, local organizations and residents. Their previous work in Flagstaff includes installations such as “Lion Eyes (Through the Forest)” and “Southside Grove” at the Downtown Connection Center.
Residents interested in participating can access the survey at https://connect.flagstaffaz.gov/sprucewashwedge. For more information or questions about this initiative, contact Jana Weldon at Jana.Weldon@flagstaffaz.gov.
