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Symbol of Diversity to Hit the Streets for Pride Fest

Mar 27, 2016 | 8:07 AM

LETHBRIDGE – Rainbows will be leading people to Lethbridge Pride Fest this year.

Members on the Board of Directors for the Pride Fest Society, went before council to request four crosswalks leading to Galt Gardens be temporarily painted in rainbow colours.

It was agreed that the colourful crosswalks will be at the intersections of 3 Ave. and 7 St., 2 Ave. and 5 St., and the two crossings at 3 Ave. and 6 St. (see map to the right) just before the event which runs from June 17 to 25.

“I think it’s definitely going to put us on the map. Most cities only do a couple. With four crosswalks, I think we’re going to get a lot of media coverage for it especially because we’re going to have it set up before Pride. Hopefully that will bring people from outside of Lethbridge so we can have a bigger event,” noted Corbin Chenger, Lethbridge Pride Fest Society Board of Directors Member.

The paint being used is biodegradable and non-toxic, so it’s safe for the environment as it washes away. It comes at a one time cost between $2,000 and $3,000.

To cover some costs, the Pride Fest Society has received a Heart of Our City grant worth $5,000. The society has also fundraised on its own.

Councillor Ryan Parker brought up that he’d like to see the City consider one permanently coloured crosswalk near Galt Gardens, as well. 

As part of the resolution, administration will be exploring the feasibility and cost for such a project in 2017.