Milton gets grant for new painted crosswalks

A new set of painted crosswalks will be coming to Milton after the town received a $5,700 grant from AARP to put two new painted crosswalks at the intersection of Federal and Mulberry streets.

The grant covers a commission for two artists, supplies and traffic control while the crosswalks are painted. Plans are to paint the crosswalks prior to fall before the streets get too cold. 

Two artists will be selected to paint the crosswalks – one along Federal Street and one along Mulberry Street. Each artist will receive a $500 commission for their design. The artist will not be required to actually paint the crosswalk, but they are welcome to participate. 

This is the third year in a row the town has received an AARP Community Challenge Grant. The first was received in 2022. The town used the funds to paint 12 crosswalks throughout town in spring 2023. The second was last year, when the town used the funds to add benches downtown. 

Councilwoman Randi Meredith, who spearheaded the grant application, said, “We are trying to maintain our small-town feel in the face of rapid population growth and land development. This can be achieved in part through traffic-calming measures that showcase a desire for safe, multimodal traffic; through the expansion of Milton’s reputation as an arts and artisans’ community; and by reminding drivers that because Milton has narrow, 18th-century streets, there is a need to adopt driving behaviors that place safety at the forefront when navigating our historic small-town environment.”

Artists wishing to apply to paint one of the crosswalks can submit a portfolio of work with up to five examples. The two artists selected will be given a specific, limited color palette and design parameters before designing their piece. Those wishing to submit portfolios can send them via email to councilwomanmeredith@ci.milton.de.us.