Guns from a buyback program held this past weekend will be melted down and used to make a public art piece. 

A total of 185 unwanted guns were turned into Peekskill police, who say a summer fundraiser allowed them to offer money for the guns.

Police handed out $25,000 during the event. 

Police Chief Don Hamly says the weapons no longer pose potential danger.

All of the guns, which included hunting rifles, antique collectibles and semi-automatic pistols, will be processed to see if any were lost or stolen. 

Then, instead of selling the scrap metal, Hamly says a local artist will be using them to create a piece of art.

People living in Peekskill say they applaud the idea. 

The city saw its first homicide of the year in July, when a man was shot and killed on Park Street.

Police say the amount of guns they've received more than doubles the last buyback five years ago.