The long awaited cenotaph restorations have begun.
The clock tower was unveiled in 1922 to honour those who died fighting in the First World War — it now memorializes dozens of individuals who died in service of their country in both world wars and beyond, with their names engraved on the cenotaph.
In a media release from the town on Monday, staff confirmed the work began on Sept. 3 and is expected to continue through Oct. 31, weather permitting.
The town credited generous contributions from residents as to why the renovations were able to start.
Repairs were estimated to cost $80,500 and a campaign held in October last year helped NOTLers reach that goal.
The restoration of the cenotaph is a testament to the community’s generosity and spirit, Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa said.
“This effort ensures that an important piece of our town’s history is preserved for future generations,” he said in the release, thanking those who donated.
The work involved in the restoration includes brickwork repointing, parging, clock face restoration, and interior renovations, the release said.
Marah Minor, the town’s communications coordinator, confirmed the town’s facilities staff are overseeing the restorations from the town’s perspective.
Kevin Turcotte, manager of parks and recreation is the project’s lead.
Minor said that the contractor of the project is Robertson Restoration, a construction company operating out of Brantford.
The project team has planned for minimal disruption to traffic, with no road closures expected and only lane re-routing around the cenotaph, the release said.
According to the release, the no parking signs placed in parking spaces adjacent to the cenotaph to accommodate the work are temporary.
