Downtown Alliance and ArtBridge Announce Program to Beautify Lower Manhattan’s Construction Fencing

The Downtown Alliance has announced a partnership with NYC arts nonprofit ArtBridge that will offer a program for Lower Manhattan’s property owners to easily and affordably transform their sidewalk sheds and construction fences into works of art. 

Property owners can utilize a unique portfolio of six Lower Manhattan-focused artworks designed specifically for this program or their own custom artwork. ArtBridge, which has a long history of implementing similar projects, will provide one-stop project management services including installation, permitting and more to bring these artworks to life for property owners. If widely implemented, this new program can help make Lower Manhattan a more visually appealing and culturally vibrant neighborhood.

“Adding art to scaffolding and sheds can brighten our streets and our moods,” Downtown Alliance President Jessica Lappin said. “We hope that Lower Manhattan’s property owners will take advantage of this new program and improve our neighborhood’s streetscape.”

This program was made possible by Local Law 163, which was passed in 2023 by the NYC Department of Buildings and requires property owners erecting a temporary protective structure to either display artwork or proactively opt out of the program. This law could dramatically improve the sidewalk sheds and construction fencing that have long been a ubiquitous eyesore of New York City’s streetscapes. 

“Lower Manhattan is one of our nation’s preeminent cultural hubs, combining a storied past with a vibrant present. ArtBridge is thrilled to partner with the Downtown Alliance to transform Lower Manhattan construction sites into cultural assets that speak to the neighborhood’s wholly unique character,” ArtBridge Executive Director Stephen Pierson said. 

For more information on project costs, timeline and the artists included in this portfolio, please visit: https://downtownny.com/business/adny-artbridge-portfolio/