The official opening of the Southdale/Fairview roundabout today (Tuesday) offered an opportunity to celebrate the 140-year relationship between St. Thomas and Elgin county.
The agriculture-themed sculpture at the centre of the roundabout was unveiled by Mayor Joe Preston and Warden Tom Marks.
The artwork is comprised of a massive tractor, a stalk of corn and a rooster perched on a fence. It is the work of local artist and blacksmith Scott McCay.
It’s one of a growing number of high-profile installations from McCay, with several atop the St. Thomas Elevated Park including his first up there, the working weathervane entitled Fear Not The Wind.
McCay is also known for his train sculpture at the Gateway Roundabout at the west entrance to the city.
Preston called the public art “a great tribute to our agricultural history.”
Warden Marks praised completion of the roundabout, which will allow a high volume of traffic to move seamlessly between the city and the county.
He added, “this project is a shining example of what teamwork and strong partnerships can accomplish.”
Patrick Anckaert, manager of capital works for the city says only a few key details need to be wrapped up in the reconstruction of Fairview Avenue.
The project, which began in March is expected to be fully completed by mid to late October, with Anckaert hoping for the week of the 18th.
