Project Summary

The City of Allen and the Allen Public Art Committee seek to commission site-specific artwork for The Bark Yard, its future dog park. Artists or artist teams are invited to submit qualifications and concept designs for the project scope to include design, fabrication and installation of artistic elements integrated with the dog park. The design and/or scope of services should be allinclusive of any necessary professional design services needed for proper execution and completion of the art installation.

Project Background

Allen, Texas (population nearly 110,000) is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, 15 miles north of Dallas. Once a very small, agriculturally based community, Allen experienced doubledigit growth during the late 1990s through the mid-2000s. Allen now boasts substantial retail developments, a regional convention center, multiple hotels, and a sports and entertainment venue. Allen is considered a highly desirable city in which to live due to its exemplary schools and outstanding community amenities.

With a strong interest in a dog park expressed by citizens, it was determined through focus groups, city staff, and professional opinion that a medium-sized, centrally located dog park would best meet the needs of the residents. The Bark Yard is a long-awaited and highly anticipated addition to the park system. This treasured amenity will begin construction in late Summer 2023 and will be located at the former Jupiter Park.

Current facility plans include:

• 1 large dog area
• 1 small dog area
• 1 flex space area
• Improved parking
• Regional trail connection
• Restrooms
• Enhanced plaza
• Signage
• Lighting
• 8’ fencing w/ containment base
• Site furnishings
• Waste receptacles
• Drinking fountains
• Individual shade structures / shared social opportunities

Project Scope

The selected artist will design and fabricate artwork(s) that will engage dog owners and all members of the public and represent the Allen community.

The City of Allen’s Public Art Committee is keenly interested in proposed works of art that are made with durable materials, subject to low or no maintenance, are suited for a dog park environment, and may address any or all of the following elements:

• Playful
• Spunky
• Energetic
• Unique
• Timeless

The artwork shall consider a park entry piece, may include a driveway entry piece, artwork to enhance the perimeter fencing as well as elements integrated throughout the park, such as but not limited to benches, signage, and other functional amenities. All artwork must be outside of the public right-of-away and must conform to all city standards. A coordinated theme/look for all the artwork is desired.

For more information on the dog park’s history and timeline please visit https://allenparks.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=4434

Please see commission document for full project information and application instructions.