A new mural may be coming to downtown Warren.

The Warren Planning Commission met recently and discussed a proposed community mural initiative with local artist Kim Slocum.

Slocum presented an overview of a potential mural project aimed at enhancing downtown Warren through public art.

Slocum, a painter and sculptor who operates Creekside Art Studios, said she is exploring funding through the Pennsylvania Partners in the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts under a “Creative Communities” grant program. The grant would require partnership with a municipality or nonprofit.

Although Slocum said the majority of her vision for the mural would be shared at a later date, she said she plans to include participation of students and senior citizens.

“This would not only provide opportunities for artists but also experience for youth to get more connected to their community,” Slocum told the commission.

Grant awards typically range from $25,000 to $50,000, she said, and projects are often structured as multi-year initiatives. Applications for the next funding cycle are expected to open in March.

Slocum noted that public art has played a significant role in revitalization efforts in other communities, and murals and arts programming have helped drive tourism and economic development.

The commission discussed the approval process required for murals under city ordinance. Proposed projects must first come before the Planning Commission and then be recommended to City Council. A permit from the codes department is also required, particularly for projects within preservation districts.

Several commissioners voiced enthusiasm for the proposal, noting that public art is included in the city’s comprehensive plan as an area for future development.