Background and History
A highly visible, vacant parcel of land on the southwest corner of Wadsworth Blvd. and Colfax Ave. will be revitalized into a beautiful sculpture walk showcasing public art in 2022. This placemaking idea was born out of a partnership between the West Colfax Community Association and Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District (BID). These partners submitted a concept to the city through the Neighborhood Participation Program (NPP). This program encourages neighborhood organizations to apply for funding to build projects they believe would make a difference in improving their neighborhood.
City Council and staff supported the concept and approved NPP funding for the project in 2019. the West Colfax Community Association and the Lakewood-West Colfax BID have contributed donations to the development of this unique space.
Learn about the long, rich history of this intersection and the plan to revitalize it by watching this video:
The Project Plan
The West Colfax Sculpture Walk transformed an empty, dirt-filled corner lot into an urban oasis for pedestrians and a showcase for public art.
In addition to funding from the City of Lakewood and partners, this project required additional support through generous sponsors contributing donations and in-kind services, as well as volunteers donating their time via a community build.
The following information provides the framework and timing for the project.
Major Elements of the Sculpture Walk
- Six raised planters constructed using ‘gabion’ construction techniques, which are essentially wire cages filled with rocks. Gabions have a long history of use, creating durable and inexpensive structures with great versatility.
- Three round gabions with steel platforms for sculptures.
- One large ‘tree sculpture’ permanently placed in a central gabion structure.
- Large boulders for seating.
- Two light poles with LED fixtures to light sculptures and provide security.
- Crushed granite ground surface.
- Water hydrant and hose in lockable enclosure to water plants.
Construction
Construction of the sculpture walk will be completed in several phases. The city will initially hire contractors to prepare the site for the installation of gabion planters and sculpture pads.
Community Build
There are multiple benefits to the community of executing this project through a community build. A community-build project becomes a rallying point for community spirit and a team-building opportunity for groups. It encourages citizens of varying ages, economic backgrounds, genders, races and cultures to work in unison toward a common goal.
Community Build Schedule
The community build portion of the project will take place over the course of several weekends in June and July. The first weekend will follow completion of site preparation and installation of underground utilities by outside contractors. The second weekend will take place after outside contractors install soil in planters.
Sign up for Community Build
Maintenance
Ongoing maintenance of the West Colfax Sculpture Walk will be provided by the West Colfax Community Association, the Lakewood-West Colfax Business Improvement District and neighborhood volunteers.