Request for Qualifications: Community First Plan Artist
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS: RAIL PARK COMMUNITY FIRST PLAN ARTIST
Friends of the Rail Park (FRP) seeks an artist or graphic designer to develop visuals for community engagement as part of an equitable development planning process for the Rail Park. The selected individual will work with the organization and a community engagement consultant to create visuals in support of the Community First Plan.
Context
Friends of the Rail Park, a 501(c)(3) organization, is committed to bringing the 3-Mile Vision of The Rail Park to life. This vision reimagines three miles of unused rail infrastructure as accessible public space, connecting over ten neighborhoods and fifty city blocks while prioritizing accessible development and the betterment of surrounding communities. Phase One of the park opened in 2018 and features a quarter-mile section of elevated walkway that extends from 1300 Noble Street to 11th and Callowhill.
The Community First Plan will build on previous research and planning efforts, including the 2020 Chinatown Future Histories report and FRP’s 2023 Visioning and Feasibility Study, which outline the risks of development and emphasize the need for community-led solutions. The plan will focus on the neighborhoods of Chinatown, Chinatown North, Callowhill, East and West Poplar, and Spring Garden (The Study Area), along with a broader consideration of the Rail Park’s impact along its planned path.
Project Details
Thanks to the generous support of the Knight Foundation and the PA Department of Community and Economic Development, the Community First Plan will allow FRP to address disparities within the community and ensure that all have access to opportunities generated by the Rail Park.
Scope of Work
The Community First Plan will encompass the entire 3-Mile Vision, incorporating input from community stakeholders and outlining a focused set of actionable steps tailored to the Study Area.
The artist will:
- Create a zine helping educate the community around equitable development and action steps to support FRP or larger community advocacy
- Create visuals about case studies identified by FRP
- Work closely with FRP and Community First Plan Community Consultant to develop presentations, meeting materials, and visuals needed for focus groups
- Help to develop community engagement activity and youth activities i.e. coloring pages
Timeline
Majority of design work is expected to happen between Nov 2025 - Jan. 2026
Qualifications and Requirements
The ideal consultant(s) will have experience in creating visuals that helps to translate complex ideas or social justice issues. Experience in community engagement is highly desirable.
Submission Details
Please provide us with a letter of interest that details your interest in working with the Rail Park and any relevant experience.
In addition, please submit:
- Three most relevant work samples
- Portfolio or website if available
- Three professional references/past clients
Budget $3000 - $5,000 based on experience.
Submissions are due Friday, October 3, 2025 5pm EST. FRP is available to answer questions and schedule calls before the application deadline. Submissions will be graded by a committee of community members. All submissions, questions, and scheduling requests should be directed to Amanda Moore at amanda@therailpark.org.
