Tillsonburg council looking at veteran’s crosswalk

The Legion colour party paraded into Monday’s Tillsonburg council meeting prior to a presentation on a veteran’s crosswalk by member Don Burton. (Jeff Helsdon Photo).

By Jeff Helsdon, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Tillsonburg council was supportive of a request by the local Legion branch to install a veteran’s crosswalk on Broadway, but has to consult with the Ministry of Transportation before making a commitment on it.

Legion Branch 153 poppy chairman Don Burton addressed council after a parading of the colours into the chamber at Monday’s meeting.

“Crosswalks of Remembrance are becoming popular in many communities,” he said, referring to the painted crosswalks that are growing in popularity across the province.

The request was for a veteran’s crosswalk on Broadway in front of the cenotaph, with a second possible location on Veteran’s Memorial Way (Quarterline Road).

“This would be a year-round remainder of the sacrifices made by our veterans that allow us to enjoy our freedoms and democratic rights,” Burton said.

Three different options were shown to council members. Burton explained the request would be for the town to maintain these crosswalks as necessary.

“We hope that council and staff can work to have this vision become a reality prior to this year’s celebration of Remembrance,” he said.

Burton did provide a cautionary note in his presentation.

“Some of you may have some trepidation about approving our request,” he said. “Remember we are not a special interest group, but an organization that represents a diverse group of men and women, many of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice that allows us to come before you tonight to make this presentation.”

Prior to opening the floor to questions, Mayor Deb Gilvesy thanked the Legion members in attendance for their attendance and service.

Deputy Mayor Dave Beres suggested a third location on Bidwell Street, where the Silent Walk begins on Remembrance Day.

Coun. Chris Parker asked if there was a preference of which design of the three shown to council the local members preferred.

Saying there was no preference, Burton added, “If you like we could have some of our veterans sit down with staff to pick the one you would like to do.”

 One of the potential designs for a veteran’s crosswalk that was shown to Tillsonburg council. (Contributed Photo).

Gilvesy made the Legion delegation aware that since Broadway is a provincial highway, the Ministry of Transportation would have to be involved. She also asked if any service clubs or groups have been approached about assisting with the installation costs.

Burton answered he had heard a rumour that a funder may come forward, but can’t confirm anything yet.

Parker presented a resolution that the presentation be received for information and that staff return a report outlining the costs of installation of a veteran’s crosswalk, potential upkeep costs, any AODA concerns, and any other risks with a painted crosswalk on a provincial highway.

Saying he was fully supportive, Parker added, “This is a good opportunity, however, we have to understand the costs before we ago and approve something and any risks that may be associated with it. As Mayor Gilvesy alluded to, this is a provincial highway so we have to make sure they are okay with it and there is the opportunity to do this. It would be premature to approve funding for something before understanding if we can actually put it there.”

Council passed the resolution.