(TALLAHASSEE, Fl.)--- The SoMo Walls have been approved for a new mural.
The Greater Frenchtown-Southside Citizens' Advisory Committee recently approved a $30,000 request to make eight new murals for the SoMo Walls at South Monroe Street.
Photo Credit: oevforbusiness.org
In addition to the approved funds, developer Bugra Demirel has matched the $30,000, doubling the project budget. Knight Creative Communities Institute (KCCI), along with the SoMo walls, pushed for the funds, which will cover 2,720 square feet.
The Citizens’ Advisory Committee has a 2026 budget of $12.4 million, dedicated to beautifying and improving local infrastructure in Tallahassee. The Southside Public Art Initiative, created by KCCI, already has several artists a part of this organization. Although no information has been released about who will be working on the project, we can look for artists who have been previously employed and associated with the initiative.
Sarah Painter, Cosby Hayes, and Ian Gallo recently worked on the SoMo walls. “Painter Hayes” refers to the husband-and-wife painting duo of Sarah Painter and Cosby Hayes, who share credit for the mural above.
KCCI has been influential in Tallahassee, with several programs and projects the group has supported still relevant
Cascades Park is memorable for the Adderly Amphitheatre and its decorative designs, which cater to kids.
Photo Credit: tal.gov
KCCI also contributed to the South Monroe/Adams Street Corridor Action Plan, which created the Palmer Avenue Streetscape. The 2012 project required $750,000 and sparked even more projects. Since 2012, numerous streets have undergone construction to build new sidewalks and connector streets, following the model of the original project
The SoMo Walls have been garnering attention recently, being awarded the ULI North Florida Award of Excellence for "New Development Under $20 Million." Several restaurants and businesses surround the previously displayed murals, including The Monroe and Walls Distilling Company.
Demirel has a clear goal for Tallahassee, attempting to bridge Cascades Park into a community hub. By prioritizing local businesses, Demirel aims to help the city and its owners prosper.
The deal for new SoMo Wall murals has sparked controversy, starting with Bugra Demirel. Demirel is not only developing part of the city, but he is also the chairman of Grow Tallahassee. It is noteworthy that Grow Tallahassee endorsed Mayor John Dailey, who has supported the developer.
Some citizens have also voiced economic concerns. While the construction has been currently limited to art and development, some fear the new “SoMo district” will raise property values, and attract expensive upscale restaurants that the community does not want.
The expressed fears would result in higher taxes and would work directly against the goals Demirel has expressed. Another topic of concern was the Office of Economic Vitality funding.
The Office of Economic Vitality(OEV) has put $1.8 million towards the art projects, and some feel the money has been misspent. The SoMo Walls have received millions in funding, while popular sidewalks and neighborhood parks have been overlooked.
Be sure to comment on how you feel about the parks and email jasonf@lead4earth.org if you have any new information.
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