Projects in Hamilton, Milton share in more than $6M in funding
The federal and provincial governments have announced funding for several culture and recreation infrastructure improvement projects in Hamilton and Milton.
The governments made the announcement on February 25. Three projects in Hamilton will share in $5.6 million worth of funding, and an additional $1.8 million in funding from the project recipients. The project in Milton will receive a little more than $1 million from the senior governments.
In Hamilton, the Ancaster Fairgrounds will benefit from the addition of a new 75,000-square foot building to accommodate larger agriculture events, as well as fairs and concerts. The new heated building will allow the Ancaster Agricultural Society to host quality events all year round, creating jobs, and supporting the local economy.
Funding will also support the construction of a 2,600-square foot addition to the Hamilton Children's Museum, creating a larger and more accessible learning space. Other work will include improving circulation routes, fire exits and signage, and installing fire and CO alarms, and elevators. The project will also update the HVAC system, LED lighting and windows, as well as improve the sidewalk and parking lot.
Finally, Dundas Valley School of Art will see upgrades to the lighting, water and HVAC systems; this includes energy efficient lighting in studios, hallways and offices, and upgrading the air distribution system ducts and HVAC units to ensure efficient heating/cooling, noise and dust reduction.
Once complete, these projects will support a variety of social, cultural and recreational activities for residents, visitors and students, providing more opportunities for people to get together, learn and build long-lasting connections.
"The City of Hamilton is grateful for this investment to enhance and preserve our Ancaster Fairgrounds, Hamilton Children's Museum and Dundas Valley School of Art,” said Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger. “The funding will ensure these iconic culture and recreation facilities are more accessible, energy efficient and ultimately, see residents and visitors alike enjoy them to their full extent. Thank you to our federal and provincial partners for their investment in preserving three of our integral culture spaces."
Meanwhile, in Milton, the federal and provincial governments announced joint funding for improvements to the John Tonelli Sports Centre.
The Government of Canada is investing $558,655 through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing $465,499, while the Town of Milton is providing $372,483.
The project work will upgrade and rehabilitate aging components of the facility, including the replacement of 8,000 square feet of sport flooring to provide a safer surface for skaters; the replacement of wooden spectator benches with better quality and more durable seating; and the removal, regrading, and repaving of the parking lot and associated roadways to improve access to the facility and other amenities located at Bronte Meadows Park.
This investment will result in the improved safety and durability of the arena’s infrastructure.
“This is exciting news that expands the lifespan of John Tonelli Sports Centre, creating even more possibilities for the residents of Milton,” said Milton Mayor Gordon Krantz.