Council has endorsed the idea of designating Highway 6 “Veterans Way.”
The proposal, submitted by Veterans Service Officer Donald Taylor, of the Wiarton Legion, asks the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) to designate Highway 6 from the north end of Guelph to Tobermory.
Taylor wrote, “The reason for this dedication is to honour and remember all Canadian veterans that fought or died for our country during all wars and peace keeping duties so that this country remains free for all Canadians.”
The MTO has asked all municipalities along the corridor – including four in Wellington County – to approve the idea. Wellington North and Centre Wellington have already approved the proposal, while Guelph-Eramosa has yet to consider it.
Mapleton Mayor John Green said while “it’s an honourable thing to do,” he wondered if the highway would cause confusion given there are several local “Veterans Way” designations throughout the county, including in Minto and Centre Wellington.
Councillor Bruce Whale asked if local Legion officials are aware of the request. Green replied he did not think so, and noted the Drayton Legion has never asked for such a designation in?Mapleton.
“I have no problem with it, I just don’t want to water down the purpose of it by having a Veterans Way every time you turn around,” Green said.
Taylor explained “At the onset, one sign will be placed at the Guelph-Wellington boundary visible to northbound traffic and one sign will be placed at the outskirts of Tobermory, visible to the southbound traffic.”
The signs, about 23- by 59-inches in size, would be built and erected by the MTO and include the name and contain a poppy. The signs would state: “Veterans Way – Lest We Forget.”
Despite Green’s reservations, council unanimously approved the request.
