Catchbasins are necessary, but they could look a little better.<\/p>\n
That\u2019s why Brampton artists are invited to come up with designs to make them look better.<\/p>\n
The art project is called \u201cFrom Streets to Streams\u201d and asks for submissions to beautify the catchbasins, which are also known as storm drains or sewer grates.<\/p>\n
Now in its fourth year, the initiative is also meant to raise awareness about stormwater management and pollution prevention while connecting residents with local waterways.<\/p>\n
Brampton\u2019s\u00a0stormwater management system\u00a0collects, moves and\u00a0manages\u00a0runoff from melting rain or snow.<\/p>\n
Unlike wastewater, which\u00a0receives treatment before release, stormwater flows directly into local rivers,\u00a0creeks\u00a0and stormwater ponds before reaching Lake Ontario.<\/p>\n
\u201cLake Ontario provides drinking water for over nine million people, including Brampton residents. Everyday activities such as washing cars in driveways or using excess road salt during winter can pollute stormwater and harm the local waterways,\u201d according to information supplied by the city.<\/p>\n
The call for artists opens March 30 and closes May 1. Artists interested in participating can learn more and apply at brampton.ca\/catchbasinart<\/a>.<\/p>\n A selection committee will choose six artists to paint 12 catchbasins in neighbourhoods\u00a0and parks\u00a0across Brampton this summer. Murals\u00a0will\u00a0highlight how water travels from city streets to local waterways and encourage residents to help prevent pollution.<\/p>\n \u201cThrough the city\u2019s stormwater programs, the Catchbasin Art Project helps residents understand the role stormwater plays in protecting Brampton\u2019s environment,\u201d the city says.<\/p>\n Residents can learn how to prevent stormwater pollution and protect local waterways by visiting\u00a0brampton.ca\/pollution-prevention<\/a>.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n