The Town of Riverview now has a crosswalk that honours its veterans.
Deputy Mayor Jeremy Thorne says local vets, who are also community heroes, approached him and suggested this type of commemoration.
“When the vets first approached me with the idea for a commemorative crosswalk, I immediately put it on my priority list. I worked closely with Mayor LeBlanc and town staff to make it happen. Initially, we had given the green light for this project some time ago, and the vets were eager to move forward. However, staff needed to research transportation and design standards, which would have been reviewed by a crosswalk committee slated to form this fall, but this would have had a significant delay, potentially pushing the project back indefinitely.”
Thorne adds he was determined to find a solution to keep the project on track. After much consultation with individuals and groups, including the Veterans Association, they were able to get the ball rolling, and this project became a reality.
The Canadian Legion and the local Veterans Association approved the design of the crosswalk.
Thorne hopes to make this a crosswalk that is painted annually.
“I’m going to make sure it is. I think it’s something we should have. And there’s also talk of possibly some future walkways as well, with maple leaves leading possibly to the Cenotaph, etc. This crosswalk is not only a testament to Riverview’s values, but it also shows an everlasting commitment to honouring our veterans. I’m proud to say that the town council recognizes the bravery and sacrifices of all Canadian Forces members,” Thorne stressed.
The crosswalk was painted on Tuesday, and Thorne says they have plans to hold a ceremony of some sort in the future, where the veterans can say a few words.
