LA Councilwoman Proposes Volunteer Crosswalk Painting Pilot

Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky introduced a motion on Wednesday to examine whether Los Angeles can establish a pilot program for community volunteers to paint crosswalks. The proposal directs the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to study the feasibility of the initiative. The plan would focus specifically on repainting existing, city-approved crosswalks rather than installing new ones.

The motion cites a distinction between engineering and maintenance. It notes that installing new crosswalks requires professional engineering review. However, repainting approved markings could allow for community involvement if proper safeguards are in place. The document suggests this approach might offer an additional opportunity for resident participation in street safety.

The proposal follows a year of unofficial activity by a local group. People's Vision Zero has been painting crosswalks across the city without official permission for more than a year. The group started after noticing a lack of painted crossings near a park at Stoner and Nebraska avenues. Founder Jonathan Hale describes the painting as a form of protest aimed at securing safer streets and more effective government action.

Hale has faced legal consequences for the group's actions. He stated that he was arrested for painting a crosswalk and that video of the incident went viral. That event led to renewed contact with the mayor's office. Hale said the group wanted to see executive action and the creation of a legal framework that would allow them to continue their work without breaking the law.

Street safety advocates have responded positively to the council's move. Beverly Shelton, whose grandson was struck and killed while crossing a street in Northern California, supported the idea. She described the current situation as dangerous for pedestrians. "You take your life in your own hands when you go out and walk," she said. "It should be a safe thing to do, and it's not."

The motion is not yet law and must pass a formal vote in the council. Hale expressed optimism that the pilot program could lead to broader changes in how the city builds infrastructure. He pointed to various proven methods for slowing down cars and creating friendlier environments for pedestrians and cyclists. The group aims to use the program to continue improving walkability and accessibility in the city.

The pilot program would rely on volunteers to handle the physical labor of repainting. This would shift some maintenance tasks from city crews to community members. The study will determine if this model is viable for wider adoption in Los Angeles.