City of Grand Rapids issues RFP for Gun Violence Memorial art installation

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- September 02, 2026

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – The City of Grand Rapids has released a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking qualified artists or artist teams to design and build a new memorial honoring the lives impacted by gun violence. This project marks an important step in the city’s ongoing work to support healing, reflection and community awareness. The memorial will acknowledge the many forms of gun violence, including interpersonal violence, domestic violence, street violence and unjust shootings.

“The artwork will serve as a public reminder of the deep losses felt by families and neighborhoods across Grand Rapids,” said Brandon Davis, managing director of the Office of Public Accountability (OPA) & Office of Equity and Engagement (OEE). “It will also offer residents a meaningful space to come together, reflect and encourage further dialogue around prevention and safer communities.”

Building on Davis’s emphasis on collective reflection and community dialogue, Latesha Lipscomb, the City’s civilian violence prevention and intervention manager, highlighted the ongoing, personal impact of gun violence and the need for a space that honors those experiences.

“We know the pain of gun violence doesn’t end with a single incident—it echoes through families, friends, and entire neighborhoods for years,” said Latesha. “This memorial will stand as a testament to those lived experiences and create a sacred space where our community can come together, honor their loved ones, and continue the long work of healing.”

Artists are asked to propose a three‑dimensional or mixed‑media piece that can be safely displayed both indoors and outdoors. The final sculpture must be durable, thoughtfully designed and able to be delivered and installed by no more than two people. A pedestal or base, storage container and installation instructions must also be included. Once complete, the artwork will become the property of the City of Grand Rapids.

A selection committee made up of survivors, families affected by gun violence, SAFE Task Force members and representatives from the Grand Rapids Police Department will review all proposals. The committee will recommend the proposal that best meets the goals of the project and reflects the experiences of those impacted.

The budget for the project may not exceed $20,000 and must cover all expenses needed to complete the work, including materials, labor and any related activities.

Key Dates

  • September 2026 – RFP Issued
  • September 8, 2026 – Questions Due by Noon
  • September 11, 2026 – Community Webinar
  • September 15, 2026 – Q&A Released
  • September 21, 2026 – RFP Responses Due
  • September 22, 2026 – Proposal Review
  • September 25, 2026 – Notice of Contract Selection
  • September 30, 2026 – Draft Contract Finalized
  • October 1, 2026 – Art Imitating Life - Community Stakeholder event in conjunction with ArtPrize
  • October 6, 2026 – Contract Considered by City Commission
  • October 8, 2026 – Contract Signed and Project Work Begins

For more details on the SAFE program or to access RFP documents, artists can visit the Bidnet Direct procurement system at https://www.bidnetdirect.com/mitn/cityofgrandrapids or the City’s website at grandrapidsmi.gov.

Questions about the RFP may be directed to:

Latesha Lipscomb, JD

Civilian Violence Prevention and Intervention Manager

City of Grand Rapids

(616) 4563846

 

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