The Turlock City Council voted unanimously on Tuesday evening to approve naming an existing walkway to recognize the city’s Indian-American population and their contributions to the local community.

The newly named “Singh Walkway,” located at the city’s northeast storm basin, came as a request from Turlock resident Ram Saini who proposed the renaming as a way to recognize the Indian-American community in Turlock. Although not a result of, the name change comes during the month of November which is also Sikh Awareness and Appreciation month in California.

Saini requested that the name “Singh” be chosen as it is a popular last and middle name amongst many Sikhs and Indian-Americans around the nation. After considering multiple locations and reviewing City policies and practices, City staff recommended that the name be placed at the unnamed pathway located along the northeast storm basin.

In early October, the Parks and Recreation Commission voted to recommend the City Council name the pathway “Singh Walkway,” with Commissioner Brent Bohlender noting the significant contributions made to Turlock by the city’s Indian-American population.

While the cost of adding an official City of Turlock sign with the name “Singh Walkway” to the facility is projected to be $5,500, the funds will come as a donation from Saini and members of the Sikh and Indian-American community.

The newly named pathway, which will receive official signage in the coming months, is located at the northeast storm basin on Christoffersen Parkway.