The City of Cranbrook will see upgrades for the Cenotaph at Rotary Park beginning this Monday.
Cenotaph enhancements including new fencing and the installation of a lighting system are set to start August 10, with construction continuing for about five weeks. The work is expected to be completed prior to September 12, 2026 which marks the Royal Canadian Legions 100th Anniversary.
After being approached by Royal Canadian Legion Branch #24 in February 2025 regarding concerns about continued vandalism around the Cenotaph, the city and the legion have been working together to create measures that will improve protection of the monument.
The city and legion agreed the existing chain fence has not acted as an adequate barrier in keeping people back. The city and the legions partnership in developing advancements will help preserve the important memorial going forward.
City councillor Lynnette Wray, said in a Facebook post that the legion raised a large sum of money for the upgrades.
“Thank you to our local legion for raising $10,000 to contribute to this project,” said Wray.
Another group the city has been consulting with around the cenotaph upgrades is the Fisher Peak Performing Arts Society. Cranbrook officials have been coordinating with the society to reduce any negative impact the construction works has on the Summer Sounds events in Rotary Park on Thursday nights. .
To prioritize safety while the contractor is working, the city has asked residents to use caution when around the Cenotaph in Rotary Park.
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