The City is seeking expressions of interest from downtown property owners interested in enhancing their building façades through a new community beautification initiative.
As part of this project, the City will provide an original mural design created by local artist Chris Fraser through a previous Call to Artists process. The design is owned by the City and has been selected to help create a vibrant and welcoming downtown streetscape. Through the expressions of interest process, one business will be selected to participate, based on the criteria provided below and ability to complete the project.
Above Image is mural design provided in kind by the City, developed by artist Chris Fraser
Project Details
Eligible businesses will have the opportunity to install a mural measuring 16 feet wide by 4 feet high on their building façade.
The mural will be:
- Printed on durable aluminum panels
- Finished with a graffiti-resistant vinyl protective coating
- Produced using the prior-mentioned City-approved design provided at no cost to participating businesses. See below for the design mock-up of the approved mural
Costs for fabrication and installation of the mural will be born by the recipient. Through the City's Business Façade Improvement Program, a portion of the fabrication and installation costs (up to $1,500, or 50% of eligible costs, whichever is lesser) may be subsidized upon approval of an application. If approved for the Business Façade Program, the City will reimburse the business for the agreed-upon costs once the project is complete and reporting documentation has been received.
Business Responsibilities
Participating property owners/businesses will be responsible for:
- All fabrication costs as well as installation costs associated with mounting the mural on their building;
- Obtaining and submitting a contractor quote for fabrication and installation as part of their funding application;
- Ensuring the mural is professionally installed and maintained; and
- Completing the installation of the mural by December 31, 2026
Eligibility
To be eligible for this opportunity:
- The property must be located within the Downtown Core.
- The property owner must apply through the Business Façade Improvement Program.
- The applicant must provide an installation quote to support the subsidy application.
- Starting the project (signing the contract and ordering the panels) as soon as possible with completion no later than December 31, 2026.
How to Express Interest
Downtown property owners who are interested in participating must supply:
- The address and current use of the property, as well as confirmation that the space and exterior façade can accommodate a 4x16 ft art piece;
- A photo of the wall selected and outline of general placement;
- A quote for fabrication and installation costs. Confirmation that costs will be born by the business or property owner;
- Details of the proposed method of installation; and
- If the expression is not submitted by the owner, a signed confirmation from the building owner stating their approval of the project.
Owners/businesses are encouraged to contact the City for additional information regarding eligibility requirements, application procedures, and project timelines.
Evaluation:
If there are multiple qualifying proposals received, the City will evaluate them based on the following:
- Selected wall faces area with substantial pedestrian traffic for maximum visual impact;
- Area is one in higher need of beautification, with preference given to properties within the “Historic Downtown” district given the alignment of the mural colouring with area wayfinding;
- Building material and condition is suitable for installation.
Due to available budget, this opportunity is only open to one business owner. However, the City will keep track of interested businesses that are unsuccessful in their application in case of upcoming opportunities.
This initiative offers a unique opportunity to contribute to downtown beautification, celebrate local art, and enhance the appearance of commercial properties through a coordinated public art installation program.
Expression of Interest Deadline: November 9th, 2026
For more information, please contact:
Leandri Kleinhans
Economic Development Officer, City of Prince Rupert
Phone: (250) 627 2840
Email: Leandri.kleinhans@princerupert.ca