Downtown Guelph Crosswalk Painted to Honour Veterans

A newly painted crosswalk in downtown Guelph has been completed to recognize and honour veterans, joining other municipalities across Ontario that have installed similar commemorative markings.

The crosswalk is located at Baker and Woolwich streets, near the cenotaph. Painting was completed Wednesday, and while it has not yet been officially unveiled, the City of Guelph plans to hold a ceremony in collaboration with Royal Canadian Legion Branch 234, the mayor’s office and city council later this month.

The design features a red and white striped pattern with the silhouette of a soldier alongside the words “We will remember them.” It follows design guidelines from the Royal Canadian Legion, which prohibit the use of poppies on surfaces that may be stepped on. Instead, the Legion provided templates with maple leaves and recommendations to avoid red side bands that could be mistaken for the Canadian flag.

Paul Hutchison, supervisor of traffic engineering with the city, said the project began in the spring through a partnership between the city and the Legion. He noted that the timing aligned with a resurfacing project on Woolwich Street, which provided the solid asphalt base needed for the crosswalk.

“It’s a beautiful piece to add in memory of those that have served, and it’ll be great for the upcoming Remembrance Day ceremonies,” Hutchison said. “I hope it adds meaning for those who want to pay their respects, brings a smile to families of veterans, and reflects the respect we all share for their service to this country.”

Other Ontario municipalities including Brantford, Orillia, Milton and Acton have also installed memorial crosswalks in recent years.

The crosswalk has already drawn attention online. Caught in Guelph (and Area) member Jennifer Aileen, owner of Modern Addiction Tattoos, was one of the first to share photos of the decorated intersection, generating hundreds of comments and thousands of reactions from the community.

Earlier in September, Brantford unveiled its own memorial crosswalk, an event that received strong community engagement and positive feedback.