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Lincoln Way seeks temporary sidewalk QR decals for branding survey; council to consider ordinance exception
Summary
The Lincoln Way branding initiative asked the council for an exception to place temporary vinyl QR-code decals on city sidewalks for a 30-day community survey; the council placed the request on the regular agenda because the decals conflict with city ordinance.
The Lincoln Way branding initiative asked the City Council for an exception to the city ordinance to place temporary vinyl QR-code decals on sidewalks for a community survey and marketing outreach.
Andrea Runge, who identified herself as representing the Lincoln Way initiative and economic development, told the council the decals would be 10 to 12 inches square, would remain on sidewalks for about 30 days, and would link passersby to a two-track survey for residents and visitors. “We want everyone to know that they are welcome in Lincoln,” Runge said, describing the initiative’s marketing goal. She also acknowledged the proposal conflicts with city ordinance: “It is against the city ordinance though,” she said, and asked the council for permission to proceed.
Runge said survey respondents who identify as residents will be entered to win a $500 prize and visitors will be entered for a $100 prize. She described the decals as removable vinyl that would be taken up after the display period and said she would follow up by email with material specifications and assurance they would not be a tripping hazard.
Council discussion focused on durability, safety, use of results, and data ownership. Alderman Barratt asked, “So what are you gonna do with the data?” Runge answered the survey “will inform how the Lincoln Way proceeds” and said the Lincoln Way initiative is powered by LEED and that the data would be used by the initiative and not sold. Council members asked for the QR code link and said the city could host the link on the municipal website; Runge agreed to provide digital materials to staff. Because the decals conflict with the city’s ordinance, the council voted to place the item on the regular agenda so members can consider an ordinance exemption or permit.
Background: Runge compared the proposed decals to vinyl social-distancing markers used during the COVID-19 period and said the materials would be removable and weather resistant. The council asked for assurances the decals would not be a tripping hazard and requested written specifications and a follow-up email with the exact QR artwork and installation plan. The council placed the request on the regular agenda for a formal vote.
