San Francisco’s Castro district will soon be home to an intersection with rainbow-colored crosswalks. The design for the historically gay neighborhood’s crosswalks was chosen by vote from amongst a number of other options — with the plan being to complete it in time for the Gay Pride march in June.
The move is part of a larger renewal initiative, one which includes: increasing the width of sidewalks, installing bike racks, improving outdoor lighting, repaving roads, and planting trees. A “Rainbow Honor Walk” will also be installed, featuring inlaid plaques with the names of LGBT civil rights activists.
Image Credit: Sean Neild via Flickr CC
All of this beautification is of course intended to improve the presentation and walkability of the district (as well as bike-ability) — something which should lead to lower levels of automobile use, and improved public health.
Speaking from personal experience, I have to say that the main thing that determines how much I walk is how nice the area and walking experience is — things that this renewal initiative are addressing. 🙂
Something else to note about rainbow crosswalks (which are also installed in West Hollywood in LA) — many people have reported that they offer improved pedestrian visibility as compared to conventional crosswalks, perhaps helping to reduce car accidents? Hard to say, but something to keep in mind.
Do any of our readers have experience with these? What do you think?
The rainbow crosswalks will be installed at the intersection of 18th and Castro, for a cost of $37,400. So if you’re interested in seeing the crosswalks in person after they are installed, this is where they’ll be. Enjoy. 🙂
Source: Grist
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