Graffiti problem growing in Vancouver
Posted April 23, 2012 8:54 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – Graffiti is a problem in every city in the Lower Mainland. In Vancouver, it’s becoming more rampant which is why the city is working on a program to curb vandalism.
Director of Transportation Jerry Dobrovolny says graffiti is up because of social media, with taggers making their mark, snapping a photo, and showing everyone they know.
“Some of the graffiti has hateful, hurtful and offensive message. But a lot of it is an expression and doesn’t fall into that category…an attempt at art,” believes Dobrovolny.
But to the city, it’s not considered artwork, but rather a costly burden on taxpayers.
It looks ugly and Dobrovolny argues it costs several hundred thousand dollars just to clean it up.
Vancouver had a comprehensive program to combat graffiti, and now a similar program is making a comeback.
“They’re being re-established this year. We had them several years ago, but were phased out. Now council voted to re-establish those, so we’re ramping up the program now.”
The program is aimed at teaching teens to redirect their energy and spray painting skills into neighbourhood murals.
“We know what works. If you have a multifaceted program that looks at enforcement, looks at removal, and looks at finding new opportunities to express themselves [young people] positively.”
Staff are working hard with various groups like the VPD and Park Board to get the program up and running.
