A message of inclusivity will soon brighten up downtown Vernon.

The community鈥檚 first rainbow crosswalk will be installed Thursday on 30th Avenue between 33rd and 34th streets.

鈥淚t鈥檚 great. I鈥檓 hoping to get out there and watch the installation,鈥� said Mayor Akbal Mund.

The installation will occur from 4 to 9 p.m. Until 6 p.m., 30th Avenue will remain open with single-lane, alternating traffic and on-street parking will remain available for businesses. After 6 p.m., main street will be closed midblock.

The work has been co-ordinated by Caliber Sports Systems and the pavement marking materials were provided by HUB Surfacing Systems. Installation will be done by Square One Paving.

Mund would like to see other crosswalks evolve as long as groups or businesses cover the cost.

鈥淭hey are a very colourful and artful addition to the city鈥檚 looks,鈥� he said.

A grand opening for the rainbow crosswalk will be announced at a later date.