Plans to have a decorative arch at the entrance of Prentice Lane to attract people to a welcoming “sit-down” area is in the works.

Prentice Lane is located between Glow Skin Care and Spa, 75 Main St., and The Pear Tree, 77 Main St.

The arch is part of a two-project proposal featuring the artwork of James Gonzales who also wants to have a unique bike rack erected on Main Street approximately 10 feet from the entrance door of Traditional Arts of Upstate New York (TAUNY), 53 Main St. This structure would be visible to downtown traffic in the spring, summer and fall.

“This is a good thing and is part of something we want in our community,” said Deputy Mayor Anna Sorensen at the village board’s Feb. 21 meeting.

Sorenssen noted that money could be used from the village’s Main Street grant that allows for artwork. No cost figures were introduced.

“This could spread throughout the county and could become a tourism element,” stated Canton’s Director of Economic Development Leigh Rodriguez.

The concept was presented to the village planning board on Feb. 22 by TAUNY’s Executive Director Joshua Vink who was joined by Village Trustee Barbara Beekman.

Beekman told members of the planning board that the ultimate plans for Prentice Lane is to provide some seating and lighting from the streetscape portion of the New York State Main Street grant.

Questions about signage regulations were discussed with a determination that an arch is considered an art installation and signage requirements do not apply.

It was also noted there would likely be no problem with the placement of the arch and bike rack in what is an Historical District.

It was determined that TAUNY has already discussed the proposal with the fire department and no concerns regarding blockage of the lane have been identified, according to planning board minutes.

The planning board indicated their primary concern for the site plan review involved the engineering for the posts to support the arch, the minutes noted.

The village board gave its approval to proceed with the projects.

The arch would be double sided and approximately 15 feet wide and 4 feet high.

The village planning board will convene Monday, March 25. The meeting will include a public hearing on the proposed arch and bike rack.