Yonge and Finch memorials to be taken down Sunday
Posted June 2, 2018 8:10 am.
Last Updated June 2, 2018 9:30 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Just over a month after the deadly van attack on Yonge Street, the city will be taking down the temporary memorials set up to remember the victims, ahead of the creation of a more permanent installation.
The memorials at Olive Square Park and Mel Lastman Square have become a sight of mourning and healing as the community continues to grapple with the horrific incident that killed 10 and left 16 others injured.
Mayor John Tory and Willowdale Councillor John Filion are encouraging all members of the public to attend the ceremony on Sunday.
The sombre decomissioning event will begin at Olive Square Park at 2 p.m., followed by a walk to Mel Lastman Square. Both stops will take time to remember the lives lost and families and friends affected by the violent attack.
In a statement on his website, Coun. Filion said the cards and mementos left by members of the public will be collected by city staff. They will be reviewed and a collection of them will be preserved in the city’s museums collection and the Toronto city archives. Any potted plants will be replanted in local parks and cut flowers are to be composted for future use.
A temporary plaque will also be installed at Olive Square Park to mark the significance of the location.
The city says they are in the process of planning a permanent memorial in the near future and will be considering suggestions from the public as well as consulting with families of the victims.
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‘I don’t think we’ll ever be healed’: Torontonians mark one month since van attack
