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City officials are pitching a new citizen traffic marshal course to help festivals reduce skyrocketing civic costs.

While a police badge and gun would still be needed for high-traffic, higher-risk locations, the new citizen marshals would be trained to handle traffic at other intersections, said city staff. The program could be similar to what Tour of Alberta already does with trained cycling enthusiasts, and is expected to roll out as early as the 2017 festival season.

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“If it’s going to decrease overall costs, it’s a win-win for everyone,” said Nicole Poirier, director of civic events and partnerships.

Festivals currently pay double time for Edmonton police officers, plus a 30-per-cent administration charge. That’s increased over the past three years, up to $122 an hour per constable from $83 an hour three years ago.

The police department increased prices to more accurately reflect its costs.

Poirier said city officials are meeting with police and three festivals to develop the traffic marshal idea — the Edmonton Pride Festival, Tour of Alberta and Edmonton Marathon. She’s hoping to test the concept next summer and expand it to other festivals.

Tour of Alberta uses trained volunteers. That might not work for every festival.