Suggestions invited about Geelong rainbow crossing

A POPULAR Geelong CBD crossing or intersection is set to receive a splash of colour, and the public can have their say about which intersection it should be.

The City of Greater Geelong has opened up public consultation for the permanent installation of a rainbow crossing in a show of solidarity with the LGBTQI+ community.

Cr Sarah Mansfield, chair of the council’s diversity, inclusion and LGBTIQ+ portfolio, said the new crossing was a beneficial step towards a more inclusive Geelong, with education at the forefront of the move.

“The planned crossing will be a vibrant and colourful representation of our region’s support of the local rainbow community and continue to celebrate its local LGBTQIA+ communities.

“Education and understanding are important for all members of the community to consider, and we recognise in this initiative an opportunity to promote equality and visibility.”

The new rainbow installation will aim to acknowledge the diversity of Geelong’s community in a “fun and colourful” way.

Seven locations in the CBD have been suggested in the document for public input following consultation with Geelong’s rainbow community, ranging from traffic light intersections to zebra crossings.

The intersections and crossings up for discussion are:
Malop Street crossing – between Market Square & Westfield (traffic lights)
Yarra Street underpass pedestrian crossing (traffic lights)
Malop Street crossing – near Clare Street (traffic lights)
Fenwick Street pedestrian crossing – near Johnstone Park (zebra crossing)
Western Beach Road pedestrian crossing – opposite The Novotel (zebra crossing)
Western Beach Road pedestrian crossing – opposite Cunningham Pier (zebra crossing)
Gheringhap Street pedestrian crossing – opposite Deakin (zebra crossing).

Community engagement about the crossing will start today (Thursday, June 30) and continue for the next four weeks.

The “Have Your Say” page on the city’s website will be inviting recommendations until August 1.