Georgetown residents will likely see more public art installed downtown.

City Council approved an application June 9 to seek funding for the first phase in a larger project to create an arts district through collaboration with local businesses, the Georgetown Art Center and artists. The project will also involve city departments, including arts and culture, downtown development, real estate services, parks and recreation and the convention and visitors bureau.

According to staff documents, the vision for a more long-term project would benefit local businesses and the public by activating the spaces to provide pedestrian connectivity and enhanced seating and gathering spaces. It would benefit the local arts community by providing art market space and artistic and musical programming, as well as the tourism community by providing high quality arts attractions for visitors and local residents.

The project would be completed in phases:

• Phase 1: a mural at the Art Center
• Phase 2: artistic metal screening/fencing around the electrical transformer and other enhancements at the alleyway north of the Watkins building
• Phase 3: landscaping enhancements, pedestrian connectivity and community dining between Founders Park, Sweet Lemon and the Watkins building
• Phase 4: artistic archway into the arts district and enhancement to the public restrooms near Grace heritage