The mural is intended to revitalize a blank wall on a building that has been improved to provide peer mentoring services. The building, owned by the McCarty family, plays a role in the community’s history, having been a hub for social activities in the past. The artist’s design includes a collage of influential community figures, such as James Hall, the first black police officer from East Stuart, and significant elements like the Stuart Training School, a saxophone player to represent the jazz era, and hibiscus flowers reminiscent of Beanie Backus’s paintings.

The CRA board was briefed on the project by the director, who explained the importance of the mural in enhancing the area’s visual appeal and celebrating its history. A QR code will be installed next to the mural, directing viewers to a webpage with detailed information about the artwork and its significance. The East Stuart Historical Advisory Committee provided input, and the mural was recommended for approval by the CRA board.

In addition to the mural grant approval, the CRA passed a resolution to extend the mural matching grant program’s boundaries to encompass the entire CRA district. This amendment will allow more property owners to apply for funding to create murals, with the CRA allocating approximately $22,000 annually for the program.