Placement of Palette Themed Bike Rack in Coghlin Park

City Council Agenda Item Report

FROM:

Mark Ondersma – Director of Public

MEETING DATE:

Works June 22, 2026

SUBJECT: CVB

Palette Themed Bike Rack Placement

DESCRIPTION: In October 2025, City Council approved a proposal from the Saugatuck-Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) to install an artistic bike rack featuring a palette-themed design. This bike rack was created by students at Saugatuck High School as part of a local design initiative. After reviewing potential placement options, the PPW Committee recommends installing the bike rack in Coghlin Park along Culver Street, near the existing benches. This location provides high visibility and accessibility for cyclists while enhancing the park environment. In addition to serving a practical purpose, the bike rack functions as a piece of public art that highlights the creativity and talent of local students. BUDGET ACTION REQUIRED: N/A COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REVIEW: The Parks & Public Works Committee has reviewed. The Historic District Commission will also have to approve if placed in the district. LEGAL REVIEW: N/A SAMPLE MOTION: Motion to Approve/Deny the Palette Themed Bike Rack Placement as presented.

CVB Funded Artsy Bike Rack Placement Last year, the Saugatuck Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) partnered with the Industrial Arts class at Saugatuck High School to create a custom, artistic bike rack for installation in downtown Saugatuck. The bike rack concept was created by Saugatuck High School student Tessa Knap as part of the school's Architecture and Design class. Inspired by the iconic paint palette sign that has long symbolized the area's thriving arts scene, the design reflects the unique artistic identity of Saugatuck and Douglas. Students Nolan LaLoade and Nick Mohr brought the design to life through the fabrication process in their Industrial Arts class. Their work transformed the original concept into a durable, functional piece of public art that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors for years to come. The bike rack is now ready for installation. CVB staff presented the bike rack to the Parks & Public Works Committee at their June 2 meeting. After discussion, the PPW committee recommended that the bike rack be placed at Coghlin Park. The goal is to place it in a visible, high-traffic location where it can serve both as functional bicycle parking and as a unique piece of public art showcasing the creativity of our local students. Thank you for your consideration and support of this collaborative community project.