Grads could be allowed to paint Suicide Hill, which would be closed for two months

Vernon city staff are recommending graduating Vernon Secondary students be allowed to re-create the tradition of painting Suicide Hill.

Staff are recommending council issue a road use permit to School District 22 to close that steep portion in the 2400 block of 30th Avenue until Sept. 4, 2020, the last weekend before the new school year, when the paint would have to be removed.

Darren Lee, manager of protective services, said in a report to council that part of the road should be closed to traffic for that period for several reasons.

He said the paint could create slippery conditions for drivers, particularly when wet, the markings would not meet Transportation Association of Canada guidelines and would be unfamiliar to drivers. He added the paint would last longer without vehicle tires driving on it.

The section known as Suicide Hill is one-way in the eastbound, uphill direction, and there is no vehicle access to any properties directly off that segment.

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The issue will be before council at their regular meeting Monday June 8.

Councillor Brian Quiring got staff to look into the request to allow grads to paint the hill at the last council meeting May 25.

City staff is also recommending the $75 road use permit fee be waived for the school district.