LONDON, Ont. – The Veteran’s Memorial Parkway Landscape Enhancement Project has launched a program to plant 8,000 trees along the gateway to serve as proud reminders of the honor and respect Londoners have for veterans. The project hopes to wrap up the planting by 2016.
Mayor Fontana, on behalf of the City of London, joined representatives of Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association in signing an agreement, giving authority for the Veteran’s Memorial Parkway Community Program to begin operations. Mayor Fontana said the project is indicative of the community’s collective regard for those who serve unselfishly and protect the values and way of life. “We live in a safe and beautiful country, and we do so because of the sacrifices made by generations of Canadians,” he said. “This tree lined thoroughfare will be a fitting acknowledgement and a striking testament to our veterans. Congratulations and well done to everyone who has been involved in this project.”
"Planting a garden is an act of hope and legacy. Helping to transform London’s Veterans Memorial Parkway into a highway garden reflects the hope and legacy at the root of our veterans’ sacrifices,” said Tom Intven, president of Landscape Ontario Horticultural Trades Association. “The horticulture industry represented by Landscape Ontario is proud to be associated with this important project.”
Grant Harrison, president of the London Chapter Landscape Ontario says his members are eager to start work. "The London Chapter of Landscape Ontario is an enthusiastic supporter of the Veterans Memorial Parkway project. Participating in a project that will memorialize the sacrifices of our veterans is very important."
The Veterans Memorial Parkway Community Program (VMP CP) is a coalition of government, business, and community groups, who have come together to complete the VMP Landscape Enhancement project that was initiated by the three levels of government in 2009. The project will provide a living and fitting tribute to all Canadian veterans, as it benefits the environment by adding significantly to the urban forest and enhancing this major gateway to the community.
Over the next five years, the Veterans Memorial Parkway Community Program will plant 8,000 large-scale trees as living sentinels and build 15 commemorative features.