Legacy
Canada 150 Trail and Lookout (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
In celebration of the country’s 150th anniversary in 2017, we established the Canada 150 Trail and Lookout at Shannon Park in Halifax. The accessible trail provides visitors with access to breathtaking and panoramic views of the Halifax Harbour. Although development of the site hasn’t yet begun, the trail’s opening has marked a turning point in its history and a milestone in its transformation from former military complex to a new, vibrant and open community.
Sesquicentennial Trail (Toronto, Ontario)
Conceived in 2017 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Sesquicentennial (Sesqui) Trail serves as a visual interpretation of the story of Downsview and the important history of Indigenous Peoples in the community. The trail pays homage to the park’s agricultural past, history of aviation innovation and military operations, and appropriately incorporates interpretive narratives and public art to create an immersive and engaging experience for pedestrians. Opened to the public in 2019, the Sesqui Trail is a visually stunning new gateway to the park that unites past, present and future.
Wing Officer Willa Walker Park (Ottawa, Ontario)
Named after the World War II Armed Forces pioneer, Wing Officer Willa Walker Park in our Wateridge Village opened in 2018. Mrs. Walker was the commanding officer of the women’s division of the Royal Canadian Air Force and oversaw the Manning Depot at Rockcliffe, in Ottawa. She was also remarkably ingenious – while her husband was held captive by enemy forces, Mrs. Walker developed a code system which allowed her to communicate with him through Red Cross packages. For Wateridge residents, the park – which today, is a recreation area for children and their families – serves as a daily reminder of Mrs. Walker’s unforgettable contribution to Canada. We were honoured to welcome members of the Walker family at the park’s opening ceremony.
Stanley A. Milner Street dedication (Edmonton, Alberta)
At the Village at Griesbach, we’ve created a range of themed public spaces, statues, displays and parks in recognition of Canada’s military heritage. In 2018, in collaboration with the South Alberta Light Horse Regiment, we named a street in the village in honour of Stanley A. Milner and his family.
Mr. Milner exemplified his family’s commitment to the military, serving in the 2nd Battalion, Saskatoon Light Infantry and the Canadian Officer Training Program. He also served as Honourary Colonel of the South Alberta Light Horse Regiment and founded the South Alberta Light Horse Regiment Foundation, a group which preserves regimental history and provides support for retired soldiers and military families. Mr. Milner was in attendance at the street naming ceremony. It was our honour to permanently recognize his important work, along with that of other veterans.