Sault Ste. Marie is considering a giant Canadian flag up to 100 feet tall near the International Bridge connecting the city to the United States. The motion, put forward by Coun. Corey Gardi, directs city staff to study the feasibility of installing the flag on the boardwalk along the city's waterfront.
Motion details and location
Gardi's motion, presented at a recent council meeting, calls for a report on potential locations, costs, and logistics. The preferred site is the area near the boardwalk, which offers high visibility for traffic crossing the bridge. The flag would be comparable in size to the giant Canadian flag at the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Ontario.
“This would be a symbol of pride for our community and a welcoming sight for visitors entering Canada,” Gardi said. “It’s about celebrating our identity and making a bold statement at our border.”
Cost and community impact
The estimated cost for a flag of that size, including installation and lighting, could range from $50,000 to $100,000, according to preliminary estimates from city staff. Ongoing maintenance and replacement costs would also need to be considered. Gardi suggested potential funding sources could include corporate sponsorships or community fundraising.
The flag would be visible from the U.S. side of the St. Marys River and could become a tourist attraction. Sault Ste. Marie already draws visitors for its natural beauty and the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, and the flag could enhance the waterfront experience.
Next steps
Council voted to refer the motion to the city’s infrastructure committee for further study. A report is expected within three months. If approved, construction could begin in 2027, pending budget approval and necessary permits.
