New Veteran's crosswalk for Simcoe

Luke Edwards

Grant Haven Media

With her son Nolan at her side, who recently returned from a 13-month deployment that included eight months overseas in Latvia, Stephanie Johnston came to Norfolk County Council with a simple request.

She said she was willing to raise the money herself to fund a veteran’s crosswalk for Simcoe, and just wanted the County’s permission to have it installed.

Councillors granted that permission, but also offered up the money for the military tribute.

“We’ll look after this first one,” said Coun. Chris Van Paassen as he put forward an amendment to a community-led initiatives report on Johnston’s plan to install veteran’s crosswalks across the county. The County will instead fund the first crosswalk itself.

The tribute is a personal one for Johnston. Not only is her son a service member, but she’s also the great granddaughter, granddaughter, daughter, and niece of men who have served in the military.

“A veteran’s crosswalk is a visible and long-lasting tribute to all the men and women who have served our country and our community. It also serves as a reminder of their sacrifice, courage and commitment,” she said.

Johnston said she began working on the project shortly after Nolan deployed. 

Installation of a crosswalk could cost as much as $20,000, money Johnston was willing to raise with the help of the Norfolk Community Foundation.

The first crosswalk is planned for Wilson Avenue at the Carillon Tower, itself a tribute to those who died in the First World War. She hopes to eventually get five installed throughout each of Norfolk’s urban communities.

There’s a bridge replacement project being undertaken in the area, with staff committing to having it wrapped up in time for Remembrance Day. While that leaves a tight timeline, General Manager of Public Works Andrew Grice said they’ll try to also get the crosswalk installed in time for Remembrance Day.