Plans for an art installation at Canatara Park have received Sarnia council support.
Speaking on behalf of the nuSarnia Foundation, Sam Eastman outlined plans to install a community designed mural on the lifeguard station.
"We are bringing this idea forward in response to community feedback that we've received," Eastman told council. "Residents have expressed that the lifeguard station could benefit from revitalization and we understand that the city has received similar concerns over the years as well."
Eastman said the project can serve as a pilot initiative as the city implements the park's master plan.
"Given its location at Sarnia's Blue Flag beach, this presents an opportunity to enhance a key feature of Canatara Park in alignment with community input and the park's long-term vision," said Eastman.
Eastman said their organization would fully fund the project, which would see the mural printed on cloth, stuck to the exterior with an adhesive and protected with a sealant.
"We'd like to cover the entire front of the building that faces the water, the side that looks out to the Blue Water Bridge and the back where you enter to use the washrooms," she said.
Eastman said local artists will be invited to submit mural designs to the foundation in April.
"Artists will be encouraged to reflect Canatara Park's beauty, history and recreational spirit in their designs," she said. "Once submissions are collected we will collaborate with city staff to determine the selection process, whether through community voting on Speak Up Sarnia or an internal review process," Eastman said.
The foundation hopes to have the mural completed by early to mid-June.
"To measure the success of this public art pilot project, we will incorporate a QR Code into the mural allowing visitors to scan it, share their thoughts on public art in the park. In addition, we will place signage at key locations throughout the park to encourage participation in the survey," said Eastman.
She said they also plan to engage with park visitors directly by hosting a pop-up event at the lifeguard station.
A request allowing Sarnia council final approval of the design was also endorsed.
Councillors Terry Burrell and Dave Boushy opposed the plan.