Thetis Lake’s iconic log sign being refurbished following public backlash in 2023

One of Greater Victoria’s most recognizable park landmarks is getting a new lease on life.

The iconic carved log sign at the entrance to Thetis Lake Regional Park will undergo a major refurbishment, with the Capital Regional District (CRD) expecting the work to extend its life by at least another decade.

The CRD announced that work began this week, and visitors will notice scaffolding and fencing around the sign. The upper portion will be removed and replaced, while sandblasting and other restoration work will continue throughout September.

Crews will remove existing rot, filler and paint before installing the new upper sign. Around 60 borate rods will also be inserted into the log to slow further deterioration, and the entire structure will be repainted in its familiar colour scheme.

“With restoration, we expect to extend the log’s lifespan by at least another 10 years, likely more,” the CRD said in a social media post.

The log itself will not be moved and is expected to remain in its current location for the foreseeable future.

The restoration marks the latest chapter in a public debate that erupted in January 2023, when the CRD revealed plans to remove the familiar wooden landmark and replace it with a smaller, modern sign as part of a broader effort to standardize signage across regional parks.

The proposal was met with immediate backlash, with thousands of comments pouring in across social media. Many residents argued the old sign was part of the park’s identity and said the proposed replacement lacked the character of the original.

“We heard and appreciated all the passion and nostalgia that was expressed, as well as the history around the log that was revealed,” said the CRD.

See also: ‘You spoke and we listened’: CRD reverses decision to replace Thetis Lake sign

The CRD initially said the wooden signs were deteriorating and required increasing staff time and resources to keep them safe and legible. However, following the public response, the district put its replacement plans on hold and committed to reassessing the future of the log.

The sign was originally carved by Peter Martineau in 1984 and installed when the park was owned and operated by the City of Victoria. During the 2023 debate, Martineau’s daughter shared an image showing what the sign looked like when it was first completed.

The CRD said the work is not expected to have a major impact on park visitors, although a small area of the main parking lot will be closed during the project. Visitors are being asked to stay outside the fenced work area and give crews room to complete the restoration.

The project is expected to wrap up later this fall. The CRD also plans to hold a small celebration with members of Martineau’s family to mark the local landmark’s fresh start.