City of Fort Walton Beach invites artists to transform 25 fire hydrants into patriotic landmarks celebrating America’s 250th birthday across city streets
Fort Walton Beach, Florida – The City of Fort Walton Beach Community Redevelopment Agency is asking local artists to assist them turn ordinary fire hydrants into strong displays of national pride.
As part of a public art effort marking the nation’s 250th birthday, the CRA plans to repaint 25 fire hydrants throughout the city with designs that reflect a patriotic spirit. Officials say the purpose is simple but important: to provide color and personality to local streets while celebrating the country’s milestone.
Artists who want to take part must send in at least five original design ideas along with a bid proposal. The chosen artist will be in charge of the whole project and will paint all 25 hydrants.
It’s not only about paint and brushes. Cleaning up each hydrant by getting rid of debris, rust, chipped paint, and any plants that are nearby is one of the duties. The artist that is hired must also provide all the necessary supplies, tools, paints, and protective coatings suitable for outdoor metal surfaces.
Once the designs are approved, the artist will paint each hydrant according to the designs and then cover the artwork with a clear seal that will last through the weather. It is important to keep the work environment clean and safe at all times during the job. The CRA administrator must also get before-and-after pictures of each hydrant, along with information about where it is located, once the work is done.
Proposals must be in by 7 a.m. on March 16, 2026. You can send your submissions by email to [email protected] or bring them in person to the CRA Office at 105 Miracle Strip Parkway SW in Fort Walton Beach. You can email CRA Administrator Alisa Burleson at [email protected] or call her at 850-586-7814 if you have any questions regarding the project.
The selection process will include public input. All of the designs that were sent in will be shown at the CRA Citizen Input Meeting on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 9 a.m. in the City Hall Annex Training Room. Community members will be able to see the art and give their thoughts.
The CRA Board will make the ultimate decision during its meeting on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at 4 p.m. in City Council Chambers. The top three submissions from that meeting will go on to the Board.
The CRA has project criteria and entry forms for artists who want to bring their patriotic vision to reality, one fire hydrant at a time.
View and download the Patriotic Fire Hydrant Painting Project rules and entry form here
