public art opportunity: downtown olathe parking garage
In November 2025, the Olathe City Council approved the construction of a second Downtown parking garage in partnership with Johnson County. The new structure will be built on the current City Hall surface parking lot, with construction anticipated to begin in June 2026 and completion projected for Q3 2027.
Project Goals
The City is seeking an artist or artist team to create impactful, site-responsive artwork that enhances the visual experience of the parking structure and contributes to Downtown Olathe’s identity.
Based on project discussions with the design team, potential locations for artwork include:
Southeast glass stair tower (interior-facing, vertical element)
Southwest open stair tower (exterior, highly visible architectural feature)
Plaza / circular drop-off area (approximately 88-foot diameter, pedestrian-oriented space)
Top level / roof deck (highly visible from surrounding buildings)
Potential integration with façade or screening elements
These locations are provided as guidance; artists may propose a focused intervention in one area or a cohesive approach spanning multiple areas.
Artists should consider the following in their approach:
Visibility from both pedestrian and vehicular perspectives
Integration with architectural elements and materials
Durability and low maintenance in a high-traffic environment
Enhancing wayfinding, placemaking, and overall user experience
Opportunities to create a sense of openness, safety, and activity
The City is open to a range of media and approaches, including (but not limited to): integrated architectural elements, sculptural work, surface treatments, light-based work, or ground plane design.