FORT WAYNE, Ind. (AP) _ An Indiana-Purdue-Fort Wayne program that turns bicycle racks into sculpture has won international recognition.

The Journal Gazette reports (http://bit.ly/1upOwV4) that the school's Sculpture with Purpose project was recognized with a merit award last week at the International Downtown Association's annual convention in Ottawa, Ontario.

Project manager Ruth Stone says the idea sprang from the local 70 miles or more of bike trails and a push for more public art. It was modeled after similar programs in Toledo, Ohio and Louisville, Kentucky. The trails now boast 50 sculptures, which will be maintained by Arts United of Greater Fort Wayne.

The project was a collaboration between the city, IPFW and Arts United. It was intended as a way to celebrate the school's 50th anniversary.