By Angela Martini

JAMESTOWN, N.D. (Arts Center) – The Arts Center announced that Jamestown is among 12 recipients of The North Dakota Department of Commerce’s Main Street Initiative Vibrancy grant.

The Main Street Initiative Vibrancy grant is meant to add a spark of activity and energy in communities through North Dakota. The program helps provide small investments in community projects or events that encourage public art, activate underutilized space or promote walking and biking.

“This grant is a great opportunity to inspire others to engage and contribute to their community’s quality of life for both visitors and residents,” Interim Commerce Commissioner Shawn Kessel said.

The Arts Center’s “Chalkfest” project (coming this summer to the Downtown Arts Market) was selected for this grant. This grant as well as additional support will help bring this exciting project to fruition.

“We are so excited to bring the event to Jamestown. It is a great opportunity for our community to witness nationally recognized chalk artists in action. We are so grateful for our partnerships with the Jamestown Downtown Association, Jamestown Tourism, and the Main Street Vibrancy grant to make this possible,” Mindi Schimtz, Executive Director of The Arts Center.

Chalkfest will happen this summer June 24th with the opening of the Downtown Arts Market. Chalkfest brings 10 professional chalk artists to Jamestown. These artists will create stunning chalk art around the Hansen Arts Park over a period of three days. The hope is to create more interest and visitors to Downtown Jamestown.