Leduc debuts new Rainbow Memorial Bridge

LEDUC -- The City of Leduc has unveiled its new Rainbow Memorial Bridge at the K-9 Off-Leash Dog Park.

The new bridge -- inspired by a poem written by Edna Clyne-Rekhy -- is a dedicated space where pet owners can honour and remember their cherished companions who have passed away. The idea for the bridge first came forward at Leduc's Parks, Recreation, and Culture Board meeting in March and was then approved by City Council in June.

In addition to the Rainbow Memorial Bridge, a commemorative bench has also been installed in the area. In a statement, the City of Leduc says the bench will allow residents to sit, reflect, and share a story or two about a friend who left pawprints on their heart.

"The idea for the memorial bench and bridge came from wanting to create a place where joy and remembrance can meet," said Patty Blais and Danielle Beeson, residents who coordinated the project. "A spot where people can enjoy happy memories of their loved pet."

Pet owners are welcome to leave a collar on the bridge as a personal memorial and tribute to a companion who has passed. Leduc staff say these mementos tell stories of love, friendship, walks, games, and snuggles that fill a life shared with an animal.

"The bridge symbolizes the connection between people and their pets, a peaceful place to pause and remember their spirit," said Blais and Beeson. "The bench is dedicated to Claire; a service dog who helped so many in their time of need and gave light and hope in some of their darkest times."

To keep the space beautiful and welcoming for all, collars and other memorial items will be inspected annually in January and respectfully removed if needed.