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Smart Growth America cultivates vibrant, sustainable communities with diverse living and transportation options, enhancing quality of life for all.

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Percent for Art Program | Philadelphia, PA

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Percent for Art Program | Philadelphia, PA

Public art is a powerful place-making tool and contributes to a community’s identity. With this in mind, Philadelphia started the Percent for Art Program in 1959, becoming the first city in the United States to require developers to commission art as part of the development process.

The ordinance that set up the program states that any project using land acquired through the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority must use 1% of the hard construction costs towards public art. Developers may commission an original piece of artwork, donate to the Fine Art Development Fund, or choose an alternate avenue such as leasing storefront space to non-profit arts groups.