TH&B Bridge in Brantford reopens following temporary closure for homophobic vandalism investigation
The Brantford Police Service (BPS) is investigating "significant vandalism" to the TH&B Bridge in Brantford, including homophobic vandalism targeting the LGBTQ2S+ community.
According to a news release issued Monday by the City of Brantford, city staff members discovered the vandalism to the art project over the weekend.
“The City of Brantford has absolutely no tolerance for vandalism of any kind, especially of this nature, where members of our community are targeted and will work to support BPS’ investigation to help find those responsible,” said the release.
The vandalism took six hours to clean by Parks Services staff, who had to ensure the artwork underneath remained undamaged.
“On behalf of the city, I want to express how deeply disheartened and disappointed we are by the hateful language painted across this beloved community project,” said Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis in the release. “As we strive to make Brantford a more inclusive city, these actions only serve to strengthen our resolve to support 2SLGBTQ+ members of our community and continue to embrace and celebrate diversity.”
The bridge was temporarily closed following the discovery and reopened Monday at 2:30 p.m.
The bridge is a pedestrian crossing over the Grand River, which the release called “an important fixture within the city’s landscape.”
In December, community members painted over half of the interior panels of the bridge as part of the first phase of the TH&B Crossing Bridge Public Art Project.
The release concluded with: “The TH&B Public Art Project was unanimously endorsed by city council and the Cultural Advisory Committee to help deter vandalism and foster a sense of pride in this important landmark.”
Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact BPS at 519-756-7050 or Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Fire engulfs old Edmonton municipal airport hangar
A historical hangar at the former Edmonton municipal airport beside the NAIT main campus was on fire Monday night.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.
'Catch-and-kill' strategy to be a focus as testimony resumes in Trump hush money case
A veteran tabloid publisher was expected to return to the witness stand Tuesday in Donald Trump's historic hush money trial.