- An accessible concrete gathering plaza.
- New seating areas throughout the site.
- Tree and shrub planting to provide shade and define gathering spaces.
- New flag poles framing the cenotaph.
- Improved accessibility connections and pathways.
- Memorial and interpretive opportunities.
- Infrastructure to support ceremonies and events.
- Potential future walking trails and reflection spaces within the larger park area.
Dawson Creek Cenotaph Revitalization
The Dawson Creek Cenotaph Revitalization Project will renew and enhance the community cenotaph located adjacent to City Hall. Originally erected in 1959, the cenotaph serves as a place of remembrance for local veterans who died in overseas conflicts and has been the site of community commemorations for generations.
The project aims to create an accessible and welcoming space for remembrance, reflection, education, and community gathering while preserving the significance and dignity of this important memorial. The revitalization will include improvements to the surrounding plaza area, opportunities for historical interpretation, enhanced accessibility, and the development of a renewed cenotaph design that honours veterans and supports future generations in acts of remembrance.
Estimated Start:
2025
Estimated End:
TBD
Current Phase:
Concept Development and Community Engagement
Project Status:
In progress
Latest Update:
October 2026
The Cenotaph Revitalization Committee has completed a draft site concept plan and is continuing community engagement, veteran name research and verification, and preliminary planning for the future cenotaph design. Community members will have opportunities to review the draft concept and provide input on veterans' names being considered for inclusion on the memorial.
Project Overview
The cenotaph has long been a place where the community gathers to honour those who served and sacrificed in overseas conflicts. The revitalization project seeks to preserve this legacy while creating a space that better supports ceremonies, reflection, education, and community connection.
Project Goals
- Increase acts of remembrance within Dawson Creek and the surrounding region.
- Create a welcoming and accessible gathering space.
- Honour veterans and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
- Strengthen opportunities for education and youth engagement.
- Foster community connection and regional participation.
- Ensure the memorial remains meaningful for future generations.
Project Values
The project is guided by the following values:
Remembrance and Sacrifice
Honouring the fallen is the site's central purpose.
Inclusion and Accessibility
Creating a space that people of all ages and abilities can access and use.
Community Connection
Reflecting Dawson Creek, nearby communities, and the wider region.
Peace and Reflection
Supporting quiet reflection, remembrance, and community gathering.
Youth Engagement
Creating opportunities for youth participation in ceremonies and learning.
Draft Concept Plan
The Cenotaph Revitalization Committee has worked to develop a draft concept plan for the site. The concept is intended to support ceremonies, enhance accessibility, and create a welcoming space for remembrance and reflection.
Accessibility and Gathering Space
The concept includes approximately 160 square metres of plaza space capable of accommodating approximately:
- 150 people standing
- 100 people seated
Additional green space surrounding the plaza will provide room for larger gatherings and ceremonies.
Memorial and Interpretive Opportunities
The design explores opportunities to share stories, names, and historical information through:
- Signage
- Public art
- Paving treatments
- Interpretive elements
Any Indigenous names, stories, cultural references, or design elements will only be incorporated with appropriate guidance and permission.
Concept plans remain preliminary and will continue to evolve based on community input and future design work.
Veteran Name Research
The Cenotaph Revitalization Committee is conducting research to identify veterans who may be eligible for inclusion on the renewed memorial.
Research is being completed using:
- The Books of Remembrance
- The Canadian Virtual War Memorial
- Historical records
- Community and family submissions
The Committee is currently using the following criteria:
- The veteran is listed in the Book of Remembrance and was from a community within 100 kilometres of Dawson Creek at the time of enlistment.
- The veteran is from a BC Treaty 8 Nation or Kelly Lake Métis community.
- The veteran died in overseas combat.
Help Us Ensure No One Is Forgotten
Community members, families, descendants, elders, and organizations are encouraged to review the draft list of names and provide information about any veterans who may have been missed.
Additional opportunities for public review and feedback will be announced as the project progresses.
Community Engagement
The Committee is committed to meaningful and respectful engagement throughout the project.
Input is being sought from:
- Veterans and Legion members
- Indigenous Nations and Métis organizations
- Historical and heritage organizations
- Regional governments
- Community members
- Families of veterans
Funding and Partnerships
The project is currently receiving support from:
- City of Dawson Creek
- Peace River Regional District
The Committee is also exploring additional grants, sponsorships, and funding opportunities to support detailed design and future construction.
Project Partners
The project is guided by the Cenotaph Revitalization Committee, which includes representatives from:
- City of Dawson Creek
- Veterans’ organizations
- South Peace Historical Society
- Community representatives
- Kelly Lake Métis community
Organizations interested in supporting the project are encouraged to contact the project team.
Timeline and Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the City undertaking this project?
The cenotaph is an important place of remembrance that has served the community for decades. The project will ensure the site continues to honour veterans while improving accessibility, functionality, and opportunities for education and reflection.
Will the existing cenotaph remain?
The project is currently exploring options for the future cenotaph design. Preserving the memorial purpose and dignity of the site remains a priority; however, the current cenotaph does not meet the needs identified and so will be dismantled to make room for the new one.
How are veterans' names being selected?
The Committee is conducting extensive research using historical records and established eligibility criteria. Community members are also being invited to review and contribute information.
Community engagement is being conducted with identified community groups throughout the project. Feedback from the general public can be submitted via email at communications@dawsoncreek.ca
Contact Us
For questions, comments, or information regarding the Dawson Creek Cenotaph Revitalization Project, please contact the project team via email:
Email: cenotaph@dawsoncreek.ca
The project team welcomes your feedback and participation as we work together to create a lasting place of remembrance for future generations.