Cold Lake is taking a fresh look at how it honours veterans, with a proposed redesign of Veterans Memorial Park that blends remembrance, community space and symbolic design.

The concept was presented to council’s Corporate Priorities Committee on March 17, offering a full vision for the park that has been in development since 2024.

“The first biggest objective is honour the veterans and their sacrifices,” administration told council.

 

A space for reflection and community

The proposed redesign goes beyond a traditional memorial layout, aiming to create a space that is both meaningful and usable for residents.

Plans include:

• A central memorial area anchored by the existing cenotaph
• Granite seating and decorative paving
• Enhanced lighting features
• Additional trees and landscaping
• Open space for gathering and reflection

Administration said the goal is to balance remembrance with accessibility.

“We also want to promote a community engagement and reflection place and create a welcoming and accessible space for the community.”

The concept also aims to strengthen Cold Lake’s identity as a regional hub while maintaining visual harmony within the surrounding area.

 

Symbolic crosswalk design adds deeper meaning

A key feature of the proposal is a redesigned memorial crosswalk incorporating colours and symbols that reflect different aspects of military service.

“The maple leaf is our national identity and different colours represent different things,” administration explained.

Each colour in the concept represents a different element of service, including:

• Red for sacrifice
• Blue for naval tradition and peacekeeping
• Green for combat and forest environments
• White for peace and winter conditions

The design evolved after earlier concepts, including poppy imagery, were reconsidered following feedback about appropriate use.

 

Council responds to design and symbolism

Councillors responded positively to the updated concept, particularly once the symbolism behind the design was explained.

“I just want to give strong kudos to the design behind this and the story that goes along with it. I think it’s really a beautiful story,” said Councillor Dawn Weber.

Council also suggested additional enhancements, including interpretive signage to help visitors understand the meaning behind the design and potential additions like flag poles for ceremonial use.

 

Still in concept stage

Despite the detailed design, the project remains in the early stages.

“It’s a concept at this time… no budget has been allocated… approximately half a million dollars has been visualized,” administration said.

Administration will now seek feedback from the local Legion before bringing the project back to council for further consideration, including potential funding.

“We will connect with Legion to get their blessing on this and then we will come back to council for budgets,” administration said.

For now, the proposal represents a new direction for how Cold Lake may honour veterans — one that blends tradition with modern design and community use.