CityNews

It's official, the government can move quickly and efficiently to get things done - especially with an election around the corner.

To prove it, look no farther than the stretch of Highway 401 between Trenton and Toronto. It was officially renamed the 'Highway of Heroes' by the Ontario government on Friday, just two weeks after the idea was first proposed.

"The road that links Ontario and Quebec is named in honour of the two leaders who gave life to our young nation more than 140 years ago," said Premier Dalton McGuinty. "It is enormously fitting, then, that we dedicate a portion of this very road in honour of those who gave their lives for our nation."

New signs have been installed along the route commemorating Canadian soldiers who have died in Afghanistan in the line of duty. The dedication pays tribute to the journey fallen soldiers take once they return home and are formally transported for autopsies in T.O.

These processions have drawn large crowds of mourners -- local residents, emergency service personnel and veterans -- who gather on nearby overpasses, wave flags and salute in support of Canadian troops. For 91-year-old WWII veteran Al Hebburn, it couldn't happen soon enough. "This could mean a great deal to the families of those who have been killed," he emotes. "It means somebody's saying, 'we're sorry you're gone, and thank you for what you have done.'"

And while no one's playing politics with a solemn tribute, the swift move comes just over a month before the provincial election on Oct. 10.