Q&A

Questions + Responses (Received BY 1.13.25)

1. In the “Guidelines” it states: "The granite blocks, large planters, and manhole covers located within the project area may not be primed or painted.” I read this to mean that we are permitted to incorporate the planters and granite blocks into the design? Is this accurate?  
   Respondents are welcome to consider how to incorporate granite blocks and large planters into the overall design concept; however, since they are not permanent elements, there is a chance that the NYC Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) may need to shift them from their current positions. Flexibility should be built into your design to accommodate potential changes in their location. For avoidance of doubt, if the planters and granite blocks are incorporated into the design in any way, they still may NOT be primed or painted. 

   
   

2. In the photos of the existing site conditions, it states that “Existing conditions with granite blocks and planters located on the mural project area. The exact locations of these elements may shift between the RFP release date and the installation. The artist is responsible for verifying the locations in relation to the artwork prior to installation. These elements may not be moved or painted during installation.” Can you confirm that after installation the granite blocks and planter will not move? If painted and incorporated into the design, then it potentially messes up the design.  Also, if they move after installation, they will reveal portions of the current design underneath the blocks.  
   Refer to the Sample Exhibition Agreement provided in the Request for Proposals Exhibit B, Section IX. Repairs and Removals: "During the Exhibition Period, the City may need to move or relocate streetscape elements, such as granite blocks or planters, within the Site, leaving unpainted areas on the Artwork. If this occurs, USP will notify the artist and determine a plan to repair the Artwork in coordination with Artist.” 
   
   The granite blocks and large planters are not secured to the ground so there is a chance that NYC Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) may need to shift their locations. In case these elements are moved after installation, USP will work with the artist to determine the best plan to restore the artwork. We recommend that the artist consider solid colors in the areas surrounding these elements to simplify the process for touch-ups if required. 

   
   

3. In Materials and Installation, it states that “USP will manage the procurement of all materials in coordination with the artist and according to the project budget. USP owns materials such as poles and roller frames that will not need to be purchased.” It seems the most variable budget item would be quantity of paint. Can you provide information, based off past years, approximately how many cans of primer, Sherwin Williams Latitude exterior acrylic latex paint, and clear topcoat have been used to cover the 7,500 SF surface area? 
   Please reference the following estimated quantities:  

   • Primer: 25 gallons 

   • Acrylic Latex Paint: 75-85 gallons   

   • Topcoat: 25 gallons  

   Note that 75 gallons may be sufficient for two coats of acrylic paint, but we recommend ordering a higher quantity in the case of spills, or if additional coats are required.  

   
   

4. Can we submit a series of design concepts?
   Respondents are welcome to submit more than one design concept for the site. Refer to the Request for Proposals “Artwork Guidelines.” 

   
   

5. Is there a size that we are granted to work with? 
   The project site for the mural is about 7,500 square feet. Refer to the Request for Proposals “Artwork Guidelines” and the Site Plan in Exhibit A.