By Pete McIntyre

Rainbow crosswalk proposed for Vernon

Aug 9, 2016 | 4:46 PM

Vernon could be getting a rainbow crosswalk in its downtown, similar to Kamloops and other communities.

Resident Travis Irmen will be making a case for support to city council next month, saying it would make everyone feel welcome — not just members of the LGBT community.

He would like it to go at 30th Avenue and 30th Street, which he says is central and well lit.

“It would also draw people into the downtown core to see the crosswalk, as well as be with the other arts projects in that area,” Irmen tells CFJC Today affiliate Kiss FM.

Irmen is looking for feedback to his idea at Travis_Irmen@live.ca

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He already has received 45 letters of support, and he estimates it could cost around $2,500 for the eight colours of paint.

That’s what it cost in Castlegar which he says has a similar model.

Irmen says the eight-colour model dates back to US human rights advocate Harvey Milk in the 1970’s.

“The meaning he put behind each colour was really able to resonate with everybody, so it’s not just for one particular group. It’s truly a crosswalk that makes everyone feel welcome and appreciated.”

Irmen says he first got the idea after hearing about a similar effort in Coldstream led by teenager Aasha Sanders.

“I guess I grew complacent with Vernon not having one, but as soon as a I realized we didn’t have one, and should have won, I started my efforts to get one going,” adds Irmen.

Mayor Akbal Mund says he doesn’t have a problem with the idea, but covering the upkeep would have to be worked out.

Coldstream is also looking at sites for a rainbow crossing in its community.