BLOOMINGTON– Following a comprehensive review of feedback received at the end of 2023 on a modified design concept, the City today announces the next steps for the Bicentennial Gateway at Miller-Showers Park.
The new north gateway design incorporates stacked limestone blocks approximately 10′ high, with the word “Bloomington” in letters mounted to the limestone. The final design also incorporates space for a public art installation, a feature consistently requested by community members.
The Bloomington Arts Commission (BAC), in collaboration with Parks and Recreation, will solicit design proposals and select the final art installation concept. The cost for the design, fabrication, and installation of the artwork will be paid with Bicentennial Bond funds approved by the Bloomington Common Council in October 2018. The BAC will announce specific budgets, dimensions, and timelines for the public art in a future call for proposals.
A contract addendum with Indianapolis-based landscape architecture firm Rundell Ernstberger Associates (REA), who developed and modified the original Bicentennial Gateway concept, is scheduled for presentation to the Board of Park Commissioners at their regular meeting Jan. 23 at 4 p.m. in the Council Chambers in City Hall, 401 N. Morton St. The addendum includes the development of both the final design into construction documents and the platform and dimensions for the public art installation.
Site improvements planned for Miller-Showers Park will be adjusted to accommodate the updated gateway footprint. Bloomington-based Reed & Sons Construction was awarded a contract in July 2023 to make the site improvements, which include removing invasive Callery pear trees, installing sidewalks, reconstructing the pedestrian island on Gourley Pike, and repairing asphalt, landscaping, and tree planting.
A 120-foot section of new sidewalk was installed at 1919 College Ave. in November 2023, to facilitate safe pedestrian traffic along the west side of College Ave.
A separate bid process will be used to select a contractor for the final construction and installation of the updated Bicentennial Gateway. The contract is subject to review and approval by the Board of Park Commissioners.
The Bicentennial Gateway project was approved by the Bloomington Common Council in October 2018 as part of the Bicentennial Bond package. A total of $1.25 million was set aside for the development and installation of the gateways.
Updates on the Bicentennial Gateway project will be shared with the community via City-issued news releases, social media channels, and on the Bicentennial Gateway Project website as plans are developed.
