Public Art Guidance for Developers
The Town of Knightdale encourages developers to incorporate public art as an integral part of creating vibrant, memorable places. Public art can enhance community identity, celebrate local history, and contribute to the unique character of development projects throughout the town.
Public Art Planning & Review Process
In January 2026, the Knightdale Town Council adopted the Town's Public Art Plan, which serves as the guiding framework for public art initiatives and private development partnerships. Developers are encouraged to review the plan early in the project planning process to better understand the Town's vision, goals, and expectations for public art.
The Town partners with the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County to support public art planning and artist engagement. Developers seeking assistance in identifying artists or exploring public art concepts may contact:
Jennifer McEwen
President & CEO, United Arts Council
Email: jmcewen@unitedarts.org
Phone: (919) 839-1498
Website: https://unitedarts.org/jenn-mcewen/
Current Review Structure
The Public Art Plan recommends the establishment of a Public Art Advisory Board to provide recommendations to Town Council regarding public art projects. Until the board is formally established, public art proposals are reviewed by Development Services and Parks & Recreation staff, in consultation with the United Arts Council, who currently provide guidance and recommendations on public art initiatives.
Early Coordination Encouraged
Developers should coordinate with their assigned Project Manager as early as possible when considering public art elements within a development. Sharing preliminary concepts, themes, locations, and artistic goals during the planning process allows Town staff and the United Arts Council to provide valuable feedback and help ensure alignment with Knightdale's public art vision.
Key Sections of the Public Art Plan
When developing public art concepts, developers are encouraged to pay particular attention to the following sections of the Public Art Plan:
- The Town of Knightdale: Its History (Pages 2-5)
- Understanding the community's heritage, culture, and identity can help inform the development of authentic and meaningful public art concepts.
- KnightdaleNext 2035 Comprehensive Plan Alignment (Page 6)
- Public art projects should complement the Town's broader planning goals and community vision.
- Goal 1: Site-Planned Initiatives (Pages 7-8)
- Guidance for integrating public art into development projects and public spaces.
- Town of Knightdale Public Art Program Guidelines (Pages 15-24)
- Standards and expectations for artwork design, installation, maintenance, and public engagement.
- Public Art in Private Development (Pages 25-31)
- Specific guidance for developers regarding the incorporation of public art into private projects.