ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT

August 23, 2002

Author/Local: John Clelland 604-873-7297

RTS No. 02893

CC File No. 8024

P&E: September 19, 2002

TO:	Standing Committee on Planning & Environment
FROM:	General Manager of Engineering Services
SUBJECT:	Strathcona Community Signs

RECOMMENDATION

THAT the General Manager of Engineering Services be authorized to permit the installation of externally illuminated Strathcona Community signs on the median at Powell Street and Cordova Diversion and on the north median at Hastings Street and Vernon Drive, at no cost to the City, with the location and design of the signs to the satisfaction of the General Manager of Engineering Services.

GENERAL MANAGER'S COMMENTS

The General Manager RECOMMENDS approval.

COUNCIL POLICY

Under the Charter, the City owns and controls all street allowance, and has permitted other local neighbourhoods to erect signs, artwork, and banners on an individual basis.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this report is to inform Council of a request by the Strathcona Business Improvement Area to design, install, and pay for externally illuminated Strathcona Community signs on City property on the median at Powell Street and Cordova Diversion and on the north median at Hastings Street and Vernon Drive.

DISCUSSION

Community-based signs can promote the local neighbourhood, as in Kerrisdale, Kitsilano, Gastown, Mt. Pleasant, and Southlands. The request from the Strathcona Business Improvement Area to design, install, and pay for two illuminated Strathcona Community signs is consistent with this policy and is supported by the General Manager.

The proposed signs will highlight the historical relevance of Strathcona with the message "STRATHCONA - Vancouver's First Neighbourhood". The design elements of the signs are reminiscent of the heritage buildings in this area. The signs will be on City property on the median at Powell Street and Cordova Diversion and on the north median at Hastings Street and Vernon Drive. Site drawings of the proposed sign locations are attached as Appendix A.

Partners of Economic and Community Help (PEACH) has awarded Community Development funds for this Street Beautification Project to the Strathcona BIA. Strathcona Area Merchants Society (SAMS) has committed to matching the funds for the project at Powell Street and Cordova Diversion.

The General Manager will require the Strathcona BIA to be responsible for maintenance and third party liability via a letter of agreement.

FUNDING

If Council approves A, two illuminated Strathcona Community Welcome signs will be installed at no cost to the City.

CONCLUSION

It is recommended that the General Manager of Engineering Services be authorized to permit the installation of externally illuminated Strathcona Community signs on City property on the median at Powell Street and Cordova Diversion and on the north median at Hastings Street and Vernon Drive, at no cost to the City, with the location and design to the satisfaction of the General Manager.

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