By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
Pride Month 2023 should see the installation of a rainbow crosswalk in Port Hope, following a report from Chief Administrative Officer David Smith at council’s June 7 committee-of-the-whole meeting.
Smith’s report reiterated council’s support of inclusiveness, diversity and a welcoming community as a priority, noting that this kind of specialized crosswalk requires time for proper planning, as well as high-quality materials and professional installation.
“This symbolic display should look bright and colourful with no fade or wear for an extended period,” the report said.
“Products and installation techniques/expertise to support this are required.”
This should be at a prominent location, the report said, but Walton Street may not be appropriate for a 2023 installation. The reconstruction planned in 2023 may mean a Walton Street crosswalk would have to wait another year.
“Other locations to consider include Queen Street near Memorial Park,” the report said.
“Contractors doing this type of work are at their busiest in the summer, so fall or spring installation is reasonable. This project was also not on staff’s workplan and will be incorporated.”
A resolution will be brought to council to direct staff to co-ordinate the installation of a rainbow crosswalk at a prominent location in Port Hope no later than June 2023, and allocate a budget of up to $15,000 for this purpose.
Author: Cecilia Nasmith
