Chapel Hill Review

As we move further into May, the town of Chapel Hill has been celebrating a series of achievements. These include hosting a Minority Vendor Summit, expanding the Guardians of the Hill's Crisis Unit, and introducing a special Chapel Hill Transit shuttle for a mentoring program. The month continues to be eventful with upcoming Parks and Recreation programs and a Shred-a-Thon.

The Office of Mobility and Greenways is implementing a Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program aimed at enhancing the environment for walking, biking, and rolling to school. Tips from the SRTS Coordinator include joining a bike club, sharing the joy of bicycling, and seeking assistance in finding safe routes for students to bike to school.

The University of North Carolina's spring commencement on Saturday, May 11 is expected to draw heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic downtown and in surrounding areas. To accommodate this influx, Chapel Hill Transit will run shuttles every 10 - 15 minutes from the Friday Center to Kenan Stadium for commencement starting at 4:30 p.m.

In partnership with Orange County, the Chapel Hill Police Department has launched the Crisis Assistance, Response, and Engagement (CARE) team. This unit responds both in-person and virtually to crisis calls that do not require law enforcement intervention. "We know from the experience of our longstanding Crisis Unit that many calls involving behavioral health, mental health, and substance use require a specialized response," said Chapel Hill Police Chief Celisa Lehew.

Chapel Hill Transit has also provided rides for an after-school music mentoring program throughout the school year. Ann D., from the SKJAJA Fund expressed gratitude towards the drivers who were always kind.

Last week saw Chapel Hill partnering with Carrboro Towns, OWASA, and UNC in hosting a Minority Vendor Summit. The event was designed as an opportunity for minority vendors across the state to learn about doing business with public agencies.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recommends preparing for hurricanes before a storm arrives. This includes ensuring you have a separate flood insurance policy, tuning in to an app or TV station for weather alerts, and avoiding travel.

The Council will hold a regular business meeting at Chapel Hill Town Hall on May 15. Those unable to attend in person can livestream the meeting.

Residents and non-residents are now able to register for Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation's Summer Recreation Programs. Offerings include summer adventure outings, pickleball programs, Bolin Creek Trail cleanup, art classes, river floats, aqua aerobics, swim lessons, and more.

Orange County's Shred-a-Thon is scheduled for May 18 at the Eubanks Park & Ride lot. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., or until capacity is met.

Also on May 18, Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation will celebrate the 14th annual Kids to Parks Day. The day aims to connect kids and families with their local, state, and national parks, public lands, and waters.

Parks and Recreation is offering a class on designing and creating personalized mosaic tiles using cement and glass. The class is suitable for all skill levels.

The Annual Pride Promenade organized by Community Arts & Culture will take place on Saturday, June 1 at 12 p.m. Participants will march from Peace & Justice Plaza to 140 West Plaza in celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Each year, the Town Council adopts a budget for the upcoming fiscal year that provides funding for all Town services. Earlier this month, the Council received the Town Manager’s Recommended Budget for Fiscal Year 2045-2025 which was developed by senior staff across all Town departments. Over the next few weeks, Council will consider the budget and welcomes public thoughts and questions.

A variety of public meetings are scheduled for next week including sessions by the Chapel Hill Public Library Advisory Board, Community Policing Advisory Committee, Historic District Commission, and Chapel Hill Cultural Arts Commission.