Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter
Peace River town council has created and approved a non-standard crosswalk policy after requests were made to paint crosswalks in the community.
Two requests were received from community groups that wanted to paint decorative crosswalks on streets. Because no policy was yet in place to guide the requests, administration declined to approve them until a policy could be made.
“Adminstration advised council that a policy had been drafted a few years ago, but not adopted and advised council that a policy should be in place so everyone can be aware of how the policy works,” explains Mayor Elaine Manzer.
“The policy helps to standardize the application process and provides some regulations around how the crosswalks can be painted, paint types, expectations for street closure during the painting, and also what the Town will provide including barriers.”
Administration noted in briefing notes that program policies are important to determine all the intricacies to provide them with guidance and rationale for approving or denying requests. They note these things could include who is allowed to request, who is responsible for approving them, the involvement or responsibility the Town or applicant should have, the materials that can be used, and a number of other items.
“Council has now adopted the non-standard crosswalk policy,” Manzer says, noting that interested parties have to apply to the chief administrative officer or designate.
“They (decorative sidewalks) can provide vibrancy and colour as well as having people connect to the groups painting the sidewalk and feel included in the broader community.”
The draft policy was brought forward to council at the Sept. 3 Governance and Priorities Committee, but amendments were made and then presented to council later during the month. The approval was officially passed on Sept. 16.