Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Hamilton will assume full management of the city’s waterfront on April 1, as the Hamilton Waterfront Trust (HWT) dissolves on March 31.
The HWT, established in 2000, has supported projects and programming that expanded public access to the waterfront and contributed to the vibrancy of the city. Over 25 years, the trust coordinated roughly $6.3 million in investments to improve public enjoyment of the waterfront.
Officials say access to waterfront programming and amenities will not be impacted.
“Hamilton’s waterfront is one of our city’s greatest shared assets, a place where residents gather, families spend time together, and visitors experience the best of our community,” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “Bringing waterfront operations fully under city management strengthens the long-term stewardship of this important public space.
“My focus remains on ensuring Hamiltonians continue to enjoy the waterfront experiences they value today while we protect and enhance this asset for future generations.”
A comprehensive business model review initiated by council in 2022 concluded that municipal management would strengthen governance, improve financial oversight, and allow waterfront services to be better integrated into city operations.
“This transition brings consistency in governance, reporting and financial controls,” said City Manager Marnie Cluckie. “Our focus now is ensuring a smooth operational transition so residents and visitors continue to enjoy the waterfront programming and experiences they value.”
The phased transition began in 2023 when the city assumed management of lands at 57 Discovery Drive.
“All of the programming that Hamiltonians have come to expect will continue but will be managed by the city, which already operates parks and other waterfront amenities,” said HWT Chair Cameron Kroetsch. “The city will now be in a position to deliver programming and services across the entire waterfront more efficiently and cost-effectively.”
For more information, visit hamilton.ca/Hamilton-Waterfront-Trust-Transition.
