Proposal for a Continental Rainbow Crossing in Ranelagh Village, Dublin.

Promoting Diversity in the Community

The Ranelagh Arts Centre wish to submit a proposal for a 'Continental' Style Rainbow Crossing in Ranelagh Village. The Crossing will span two existing Pedestrian Crossings, culminating at the Triangle in the centre of the Village. Continental Crossings use thick ladder-like stripes to point the way. They serve as a visible reminder for road users to slow down.

Since the Marriage Equality Referendum 2015 the Ranelagh Arts Centre had been inundated with enquiries from the Local Community as to a permanent installation in the Village to reflect the overwhelming support for the LGBT Community and the YES vote. Ranelagh, at 74.91%, had the highest YES vote in Ireland.

Rainbow Crossings have been installed in various cities such as London, San Francisco, Vancouver and Sydney. According to the US Federal Highway Administrations' 'Crosswalk Marking Field Visibility Study' (2010), a general observation concluded that continental crossings were detected by participants at approximately twice the distance of traditional crossings.

The Rainbow Crossing not only would be a symbol of acceptance, but a visual reminder of the growing mind-set of the Irish People to embrace all nationalities and cultures. It would put Ranelagh firmly on the map for LGBT Tourism, which is estimated to be worth €843m to the country's €6bn tourism industry (LGBT Capital Asset Management). And a welcome boost to the local economy. Its vibrant colours would create a focal point in the Village.