A busy intersection in Cloverdale is set to creatively come alive and become a safer crossing for pedestrians, as the Y WA, RAC and City of Belmont collaborate on an adventurous placemaking project, led by young people within the City of Belmont community. The Wright Street crossing connecting Belmont Hub, The Forum and public transport, is due for a makeover as part of the RAC Ignite program, supporting young locals to transform the crossing into a more inviting space that encourages safer crossing for pedestrians.
As part of the project, young people will work together to revamp Wright Street, boosting connection as they help their community to feel calmer and safer, and give the young people involved a chance to express their own unique identity through the design process. Empowering young people, the project will give the participating youth a sense of pride and ownership, as they transform a public space that they can call home.
$12,500 in funding has been injected into the street placemaking project by RAC, under their RAC Ignite program, and the project will also be supported by the City of Belmont.
The Y WA is currently seeking young people to be part of the project, kicking off its first workshop on October 22 where they will develop a shared vision for the space. This will be followed by a second workshop, co-designed with City of Belmont and the young people before they take part in some skill-based sessions in preparation for build week. Build week, scheduled for late November, will see their vision come alive with the hands-on construction of the space, likely to include some imaginative footpath murals.
The Y WA CEO Dr Tim McDonald said, “Collaborations like this provide young people with a strong sense of belonging and offer a space where they can create meaningful connections with others in their community, supporting them to flourish. Some of our Base@Belmont youth will be involved, but this project really is for the whole community and so we want to welcome fresh young faces throughout the project!”
City of Belmont Mayor Robert Rossi added, “This project is an opportunity for our youth to take part and feel proud of contributing to their community, while delivering a positive outcome for local residents. It’s another example of the City engaging and empowering young people, and at the same time creating something of real and lasting benefit for the whole community.”
RAC General Manager External Relations said, “Through RAC Ignite, we are incredibly proud to be supporting youth-led projects across WA. This is another great example of what can be achieved when we give young people the opportunity to step up, work together, and lead positive change."
To express interest in being part of the Wright Street makeover team, visit https://rac.com.au/ignite/programs/street-makeovers/register-for-wright-street.