Public Event featured Dedication of New Art Installation Along the MetroBikeLink and a Free Ride Zone on the MetroLink
The St. Clair County Transit District (SCCTD hosted an event in celebration of the new “Rails, Trails and Art” installation featuring ten, vibrant, moving Shtick People Sculptures created by local architect-artist Gary Karasek, which are now positioned along the 11-mile MetroBikeLink. The free, community event, was held Saturday, May 11, at 9 a.m. at the Belleville MetroLink Station. In addition, SCCTD offered free MetroLink rides from the East Riverfront Station to Shiloh-Scott Station to encourage residents to get out and explore in Southwestern Illinois.
The installation of the sculptures along the MetroBikeLink Trail was made possible through a collaboration between St. Clair County Transit District, Art on the Square, UMB Bank and local architect-artist Gary Karasek. Herb Simmons, chair of the SCCTD Board, recognized the three organizations at the event including special MetroLink train art for each.
“We are so pleased with the positive impact this partnership has brought to fruition,” said Herb Simmons, St. Clair County Transit District Board Chair. “Creating community spaces that are both functional and beautiful enhances the entire community by fostering civic pride, encourages healthy habits like walking, biking and using transit, and highlights new ways for people to get around in a more environmentally friendly and fun way. This project “personifies” the fun and enjoyment of multimodal recreation and transportation in Southwester Illinois.”
Art on the Square’s Executive Director Patty Gregory named the winner of the Selfie Schtick Challenge, the contest led by SCCTD to get people out and exploring the art along the MetroBikeLink. Congrats Matt Burton. He received $50 in Art in the Square bucks and a ten-ride 2 hour transit pass booklet.
SCCTD will also be running a complimentary shuttle from the Belleville MetroLink Station for Art on the Square events the weekend of May 17.
Founded in 1981, St. Clair County Transit District oversees 11 MetroLink stations and 18 bus routes in St. Clair County, IL.