Crosswalk art is coming to Yorkton as a way to raise awareness of pedestrian safety following a unanimous decision of City Council.
"It's a very simple idea," said Don Stein, executive director of the Godfrey Dean Gallery in making a presentation to the regular meeting of Council Monday, adding it is "a traffic awareness project."
Stein said the idea of crosswalk art as a way to bring attention to pedestrian safety came through the Yorkton Business Improvement District, with the gallery becoming involved from a community art perspective.
The project will see cutlery, neckties and piano keys painted at eight intersections in the city. Five of these intersections are on Broadway at Dalebrooke, Gladstone, Second, Third and Fourth Avenues as well as on Smith Street at the Second, Third and Fourth Avenues intersections.
"Crosswalk art is being completed to enhance pedestrian and traffic safety awareness and will hopefully encourage people to walk in the downtown core and visit the various businesses in the area," said Darcy McLeod, director of Community Development, Parks & Recreation with the city.
"It draws attention to the crosswalks," added Stein, pointing out it does so in a fun way. " It really heightens awareness through this fun thing."
McLeod said the idea has endorsement from a range of local groups.
"Endorsing this project is the Yorkton Arts Council, Yorkton Film Festival and the Yorkton Renaissance Foundation. The Community Development, Parks and Recreation Committee reviewed this request along with the concepts and have provided their support of this project as well," he said.
McLeod said the project will not cost the City additional money, noting the fall crosswalk painting at these intersections has been delayed to accommodate this request if approved by Council.
"The cost for the stencils and any special paint required are the responsibility of the Godfrey Dean Gallery however, City Council approval is required for all public art as it has a direct impact on the public perception of our community," he said.
The timing of the project will also coincide with Culture Days September 28-30, which is a national initiative to create awareness about the value culture has in our community.
