Call for Design Submissions – Birthplace Plaza

Request for Proposals

Route 66 Centennial Public Art & Impact Project: Sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Springfield

Submission Deadline: May 2, 2025 at 11:59 PM

The Rotary Clubs of Springfield, with Sculpture Walk Springfield, invite artists and designers to submit proposals for the Birthplace Plaza project, honoring Route 66’s legacy and reimagining it as an interactive destination in downtown Springfield

Located at the southwest corner of Jefferson Ave. and St. Louis St., the historic site of the Centennial Hotel, where the telegram naming Route 66 was sent, this aspect of the project consists of two components, with proposals accepted for either individually or both:

Project Components

1. 1. SCULPTURE COMPONENT ($25,000 Budget)
    - A permanent, high-quality piece that reflects the cultural significance of Route 66.
    - Should be visually striking and able to engage visitors both day and night.
    - Preference for designs incorporating neon, lighting, or interactive elements.
    - The sculpture should enhance the identity of Birthplace Plaza while requiring minimal maintenance.
  2. IMPACT PIECE COMPONENT ($100,000 Budget)
    - A dynamic, engaging installation that draws people in and encourages them to stay.
    - Open to innovative, technology-driven ideas that actively engage both tourists and locals.
    - Could include interactive digital components, projection mapping, augmented reality, kinetic installations, or immersive experiences.
    - Preference for neon, lighting, or tech-forward engagement that makes this space a Route 66 landmark for the next century.
    - The goal is to transform Birthplace Plaza into an unforgettable stop on Route 66, blending history with cutting-edge design.

Submitting for Both Components

Artists are welcome to submit proposals for both the sculpture and the impact piece; however, they must be separate pieces unless previously approved by SWS. If submitting for both, please remember that the selection committee may choose one but not both.

Site & Infrastructure Considerations

- - - The selected project will be installed at Birthplace Plaza, at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and St. Louis Street. This site holds significant historical importance as the birthplace of Route 66.
    - All components must be built to withstand outdoor elements, including sun exposure, wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations.
    - Since the project is located in a public space, all elements must be safe for public interaction and designed to handle physical engagement from visitors.
    - No modification, repairs, or enhancements to the parking lot or surrounding infrastructure will be the responsibility of the artist. Any required changes to the site will be handled separately and should not be factored into the proposal.
    - Artists should carefully review the provided site photos (view at bottom of page) to understand the spatial context and constraints. If additional site details are needed, artists are encouraged to inquire with any questions or concerns before submitting their proposals to ensure feasibility and compliance with project parameters.

Eligibility

- - - Open to individual artists, artist teams, designers, and creative firms.
    - Experience in large-scale public art or interactive installations preferred.

Selection Criteria

1. 1. Artist Vision & Relevance: Connection to Route 66, creativity, and originality.
  2. Interactivity & Engagement: Particularly for the impact piece, the ability to draw visitors and create an immersive experience.
  3. Feasibility & Durability: Practicality of installation, maintenance requirements, and longevity.
  4. Innovation & Technology: Incorporation of lighting, digital media, or interactive elements.
  5. Budget & Timeline Feasibility: Ability to complete the project within budget and by the deadline.

Budget Requirements

- - - The budget must cover all aspects of crafting and installing the piece, including materials, fabrication, transportation, installation, and any necessary permits.
    - Artists are responsible for budgeting all project costs within their proposal.
    - No additional funds will be provided for modification, repairs, or enhancements to the parking lot or surrounding infrastructure.

Submission Requirements

- - - Project Proposal (maximum 3 pages): A concept description and explanation of how the project aligns with the goals of this RFP.
    - Visuals: Sketches, renderings, or digital mockups of the proposed piece.
    - Budget Breakdown: Estimated costs, materials, and installation plan.
    - Resume/CV: For individuals or teams, highlighting relevant experience.
    - Portfolio: Up to 5 examples of past work related to public art or interactive experiences.

Timeline & Payment

- - - RFP Open Date: Now Accepting Proposals
    - Submission Deadline: May 2, 2025 at 11:59 PM
    - Selection Announcement: June 2, 2025
    - Project Completion & Installation: No later than April 30, 2026
    - Payment Installments: Payment schedules will be negotiated and agreed upon between the selected artist(s) and the project managers.

Submission Instructions

All materials should be submitted via email to: [email protected].

For questions or additional site details, please reach out to: Bridget Bechtel at [email protected].