Hamilton’s Beasley Park among six projects to secure combined federal funding of $3.6 million

The federal government is investing $3.6 million in six infrastructure projects in Hamilton, including the redevelopment of Beasley Park.

The funding includes $750,000 to support the redevelopment of the park’s accessible pathway network and the conversion of Kelly Street, which runs from the east side of the park toward Ferguson Avenue North, into a public green space.

« The federal government recognizes the incredible potential of this city and we are here to make sure we realize that potential, » said City Manager Janette Smith.

At a press conference Friday at the Tourism Hamilton Visitor Center on James Street North, local MP and Minister of Public Services and Procurement Filomena Tassi unveiled the six projects that will receive support from the Federal Development Agency Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). Funding will come from the Canadian Community Revitalization Fund and the Tourism Assistance Fund.

The other five projects include the redevelopment of Victoria Park, the creation of additional space and a heritage building at the Hamilton Children’s Museum, improved washroom accessibility in recreation centres, restoration of St. Mark’s as a space for cultural programming and a new visitor experience center.

Smith recognized Hamilton as Canada’s most diverse economy and said that « known for its strong industry, green spaces, and arts and cultural scenes, Hamilton is a major contributor to the regional and national economy. »

Mayor Fred Eisenberger expressed his affection for each project, saying how exciting it was to see « the rebirth happening on James [street] and in the city as a whole. »

« Big things are happening. There are a lot of big investments going on and it’s for the good of our city and our people, » he said.