University Heights Community Association received an ActivateYYC grant and partnered with local schools to create safer crossings and intersections in their neighbourhood. Over 160 students submitted artwork, and a select group were then transferred onto the streets to bring extra awareness to areas where students cross the street throughout the day.

The project took 3 days to complete, hit 3 different intersections, and over 100 volunteers (big and small) came out to support. This project had an immediate impact of flagging spaces that parents should not be parking within for pickup and dropoff, allowing for higher visibility of students preparing to cross. Additionally, the design visually narrows the street, subconsciously notifying drivers that they should slow down through these areas.

The lead project organizer was thrilled to see the plan come to life: “I heard so many positive things from people (who heard from people). Our community is small but I felt as though this project made people feel seen. It was a wonderful way to really draw attention to the schools in our neighbourhood and honour how much they bring to our community. Many neighbours had suggestions for other streets to paint next!”