A Creative Placemaking Project in Reading
Reading Art Alliance
The newly formed Reading Art Alliance—a collective of enthusiastic community members representing education, business, local government, and the arts—believes the Art on Main project is just the beginning of a powerful artistic transformation in Reading. With this project as a catalyst, the Alliance envisions a city alive with creativity: vibrant murals brightening downtown walls, live music filling public spaces, performance art activating our streets, and rotating exhibitions highlighting both emerging and established local talent. This movement aims not only to beautify our town but also to foster cultural pride, stimulate economic growth, and create spaces where people can gather, connect, and be inspired. Art on Main will be a dynamic, ever-evolving celebration of Reading’s creativity. It is placemaking with purpose—where art becomes a living part of our town’s story and identity. With funding and support, we are ready to bring this vision to life.
Art on Main is a community-led placemaking project designed to transform a currently underutilized 1,200-square-foot alleyway in downtown Reading, Michigan into a vibrant, interactive, and art-forward pedestrian corridor. Blending public art, architectural design, and social engagement, this space will serve as a year-round destination for both residents and visitors.
This initiative is more than beautification—it is a bold investment in creative economic development, civic pride, and cultural vibrancy. It is a shovel-ready project poised to make a lasting impact on the identity and vitality of our small town.
The Reading Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) purchased the vacant lot at 129 S. Main Street and has given it to the community to
provide a meaningful collaboration from a wide range of voices.
We are currently seeking funding through various grants and donations from the community. Funds will be used to bring the vision of Art on Main to life, with a focus on both durable infrastructure and community programming. Specifically, funds will support:
- Mural Design & Execution – Professional artist stipends and mural materials (scaffolding, paint, sealant).
- Rotating Art Panel System – Construction and installation of secure, weather-resistant display panels.
- Archway Fabrication – Custom-built “Art on Main” steel archway at the entrance of the alley.
- Seating & Landscaping – Durable benches, café tables, planter boxes, and greenery.
- Lighting – Overhead café lighting for ambiance and extended evening use.
- Interactive Elements – Materials for the collaborative mural (paint-by-number outlines, brushes, event supplies).
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
“Art on Main” Project Awarded $33,100 Grant
READING, MICHIGAN — The City of Reading Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $33,100 grant from the Michigan Arts and Culture Council (MACC) in support of the anticipated Art on Main project. Construction is scheduled to begin soon, marking a major step forward in transforming a downtown space into a vibrant public art destination.
The Art on Main project will convert an underutilized alley into a dynamic, open-air arts corridor featuring murals, rotating art displays, and interactive elements designed to engage residents and visitors of all ages. The project is a collaborative effort between the City of Reading, the Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA), Reading Community Schools and the Reading Art Alliance.
“This grant is a tremendous investment in our community,” said Ben Wheeler, Economic Development Director for the City of Reading TIFA. “Art on Main is more than a beautification project—it’s about creating a space that brings people together, supports local artists, and strengthens our downtown economy.”
The MACC funding will support infrastructure, art installations, art materials, and elements that enhance accessibility and engagement within the space. Once completed, the project will serve as both a cultural landmark and a community gathering place. The project aligns with broader efforts to enhance placemaking and community vitality.
Construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks, with opportunities for community involvement—including collaborative art activities—planned throughout the development process.
The City of Reading, TIFA, and Reading Art Alliance extends its sincere appreciation to the Michigan Arts & Culture Council, as well as state and local partners, for their support in bringing this vision to life.
For updates on the Art on Main project or to learn how to get involved, please visit readingmichigan.org/art-on-main
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Art on Main Project Receives $7,500 Grant from the Hillsdale County Community Foundation
READING, MICHIGAN — The Reading community is excited to announce that the Art on Main project has been awarded a $7,500 grant from the to support the continued development of the downtown public art initiative.
Art on Main is a transformational placemaking project located in downtown Reading that aims to convert an underutilized alleyway into a vibrant public art destination featuring large-scale murals, rotating art displays, interactive community artwork, decorative lighting, and public gathering space enhancements.
The grant funding from the Hillsdale County Community Foundation will assist with project improvements and help advance the vision of creating a welcoming and engaging arts destination for residents and visitors alike.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Hillsdale County Community Foundation for investing in this project and in the future of our community,” said Benjamin Wheeler, Economic Development Director for the City of Reading. “Art on Main is about more than beautification — it is about community pride, supporting local creativity, and creating a destination that contributes to downtown revitalization and economic development.”
The Art on Main project has continued to gain momentum through community partnerships, volunteer involvement, and grant support from organizations dedicated to strengthening small-town communities through arts and placemaking initiatives.
Construction and installation efforts are expected to continue throughout the upcoming months as the project moves toward completion.
Community members interested in supporting the project or learning more about future involvement opportunities are encouraged to follow updates through the City of Reading and Reading Art Alliance social media pages.
Media Contact:
Benjamin Wheeler
Economic Development Director
City of Reading
Reading, Michigan
