The City of Kawartha Lakes is kicking off Pride Month in June by announcing the installation of the first-ever Pride-coloured crosswalk in Fenelon Falls.
The crosswalk at the intersection of May and Water streets marks “an important step in celebrating inclusivity and diversity across the municipality,” according to a media release from the municipality.
“As a longtime resident, I know firsthand that Kawartha Lakes is a welcoming and inclusive place where diversity is celebrated,” says Mayor Doug Elmslie. “This project in Fenelon Falls is a true reflection of our community values. We’re a place that works hard to make sure everyone feels they belong.”
Installed on Sunday (June 1), the crosswalk is the first of its kind under the municipality’s newly approved coloured crosswalk policy, which aligns with its public art policy, “recognizing that thoughtful design enriches community life and adds cultural, social and economic value to shared public spaces.”
This project was an initiative of the Fenelon Falls & District Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of Kawartha Lakes, which played a central role in planning and delivering the project.
“We’re excited to see this project come to life in Fenelon Falls,” says Donna Goodwin, the municipality’s economic development Officer for arts and culture. “This crosswalk is more than just paint on the road. It’s a visible symbol of the municipality’s commitment to creating welcoming and inclusive spaces for all.”
In addition to the municipality and the chamber, the crosswalk was made possible due to the collaborative efforts of community members Julia Taylor and Darcie Kennedy, local businesses Cable Cable, Slices and Scoops, and The Well Body Group, the Legacy C.H.E.S.T. Fund, and the Community Fund of Fenelon Falls (CFFF).
“The CFFF, administered by the Community Foundation of Kawartha Lakes, plays a key role in empowering residents and businesses to create lasting, meaningful change through local projects like this one,” reads the media release.
The City of Kawarthas Lakes will be hosting a Pride flag-raising ceremony at City Hall in Lindsay at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday (June 5). The Pride flag will fly for the month of June, followed by one week in July to honour the local Pride celebrations.
