Ward 1 Newsletter - 2026-06-19

Posted by 10sc on June 19, 2026

It's June 19, 2026. Do you know what is going on in the community? You're in luck! The Ward 1 Newsletter has the information you need.

In this edition, find information on upcoming lane closures to facilitate watermain upgrades, an invitation to participate in neighbourhood plan reviews, tips on beating the heat and staying cool this summer, info on plenty of great community events, and so much more! There's plenty to discover in The Ward 1 Newsletter!

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Lane Closures and Detours During Watermain Upgrades and Lining

The two longest seasons in Canada are winter and construction. Kirkendall and parts of Strathcona are under significant pressure due to required watermain lining on Main Street West, in advance of resurfacing, and a watermain upgrade on Dundurn Street South scheduled to start on Monday.

LANE CLOSURE

Dundurn Street South - NORTHBOUND only - from Hill Street to Main Street West 

The councillor was able to delay this closure by a week after working with traffic operations, corridor management, growth management, and engineering services to deliver a robust detour plan, including directing mountain residents to alternative routes such as the Claremount Access and the Lincoln Alexander Parkway.

These overlapping construction projects will be especially challenging for residents in Kirkendall. Experience shows that, despite advance notice, many drivers do not adjust their routes until they encounter congestion. As a result, some motorists may attempt to use residential streets as shortcuts. If you notice aggressive driving, please contact the Hamilton Police Service's Aggressive Drivers Hotline. 

To help address these impacts, the Hamilton Police Service has been made aware of the anticipated traffic changes, and Transportation Operations is installing temporary speed cushions on Glenfern Ave near Queen St S. Most neighbouring streets off Queen St S and Dundurn St S already have speed cushions.

The inconvenience caused by construction is never taken lightly.  The good news is that, by the end of July, the lane closure on Dundurn St S, the Main St W watermain lining, and the Main St W development-related lane closure are all expected to be removed.

Later this year, Dundurn St S will experience additional lane restrictions to support construction of a new non-profit housing development for Indigenous learners. Unlike the current closure, however, northbound and southbound traffic will continue to be accommodated throughout that work.

  • Type: Lane closure - northbound lane only
  • Letter to residents with contact information
  • Purpose: development-related installation of watermains and storm sewers (map)
  • When: Starting Monday, June 22nd, 2026, until the end of July, 2026
  • Where: Dundurn Street South, between Main Street West and Hill Street
    • Northbound Fully CLOSED
    • Southbound will remain OPEN

Main Street Watermain Lining Work June 22-26, 2026

The full list of work and related lane restrictions or closures for the week of June 22-26, 2026, is available here, along with the construction notice. 

Why did Aberdeen traffic calming happen this year?

Residents have asked why the City has implemented traffic-calming measures on Aberdeen Ave at this time. In the Traffic Operation staff's professional evaluation, it was noted that Aberdeen failed to provide a safe space for pedestrians accessing schools, parks, Locke Street businesses, places of worship, and transit. Early measures were attempted between 2020 and 2024 without success. A report released in 2025 indicated that the previous iterative measures did not address safety concerns; as a result, traffic operations recommended additional measures in their report, as outlined in Public Works Committee Reports PW17021(b) and PW17021(c). Supplier delays meant the work scheduled for 2025 was postponed to 2026. 

If you wish to share your comments with any Traffic Operations email [email protected].

Hamilton Neighbourhood Plans Review

A planning map of the Kirkendall neighbourhood with the overlaid text "Neighbourhood Plan Review"

Many of Hamilton's Neighbourhood Plans were created between the 1960s and 1990s to help guide local development and land use. Since then, planning policies have changed significantly.

Today, growth and development are guided by updated provincial policies, the City's Official Plan and Secondary Plans, and master plans for transportation, parks, and recreation. As a result, many older Neighbourhood Plans are now outdated and may conflict with current planning policies, including those that support a broader range of housing options to help address Hamilton's housing needs.

Visit hamilton.ca/neighbourhoodplans to view maps of Hamilton's Neighbourhood Plans, including those for Kirkendall and Chedoke, and learn where they apply across the city.

The City is asking residents, landowners, and community partners to help shape the review criteria, which will be used to assess each plan and recommend which plans to keep and which are no longer needed. 

Phase One of the Neighbourhood Plan review provides residents with a few opportunities to participate. Residents are invited to provide their perspectives in one of three ways:

More information about the Neighbourhood Plans Review is available on the City's Engage Hamilton portal.

HART Hub Community Meeting

Hamilton Urban Core Community Health Centre is hosting a Community Engagement Open House regarding the HART Hub Residential Treatment and Recovery Services. Residents and community members are invited to attend this session, facilitated by Jane Mulkewich, where detailed operational information will be shared and your questions answered. 

Date: Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Location: McMaster Innovation Park, 175 Longwood Rd S, Conference Room 1

Agenda

Questions can be submitted in advance by emailing [email protected] or via the registration link, no later than Friday, June 19.

Hill St Dog Park Now Open!

Four dogs with their tongues out sitting in the grass. A shiba inu, two corgis, and a husky. The overlaid text reads "Hill Street Dog Park Update".

The Hill Street Dog Park has reopened with a new layout designed to better serve dogs of all sizes. Thanks to the quick work of City staff, the park now features separate areas for small and large dogs, each with its own dedicated entrance to improve safety and comfort for pets and their owners. The small dog section uses 20% of the original park, and its entrance is located at the west end of the space.

Sundays UNLocked Street Festival Returns 

An image of a bustling street fair on Locke Street South with many tents, pedestrians walking up and down the street, and people enjoying the summer weather with their neighbours

Come enjoy the sights, sounds, and shops of Locke Street South during this summer's Sundays UNLocked Open Street. From 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on the third Sunday of the month, Locke Street South will be pedestrian-only as Locke's merchants and community partners take over the street for a friendly and fun festival. 

This summer, Locke Street South will be closed to vehicular traffic on: 

  • June 21, 2026 
  • August 16, 2026
  • September 20, 2026 
  • October 18, 2026 

Hamilton Police Service Board Strategic Plan Survey

An image of a speeding Hamilton Police Services cruiser with the overlaid text "Hamilton Police Services Board Strategic Plan Survey"

The Hamilton Police Service Board (HPSB) is developing a Strategic Plan that will shape the future of policing in Hamilton. This plan will define priorities, guide resource allocation, improve services and strengthen relationships between the Board, the Hamilton Police Service, community partners and the public. It will be designed to reflect community values, align with provincial legislation and support responsible, transparent governance.

The HPSB is working with Consilium Public Sector Services to facilitate a public survey that will help inform the new Strategic Plan. Community members are invited to participate in the survey on the HPSB website from now until June 26, 2026.

Questions about the Strategic Plan or the survey can be directed to the Executive Director of the HPSB, Kirsten Stevenson, at [email protected].

Beating the Heat and Staying Cool this Summer

An image of a desk rotating fan, the Van Wagner's beach pool, and a puppy playing in a sprinkler with the overlaid text "Beating the Heat and Staying Cool this Summer"

The official start of summer is just a few days away, but Hamilton has already experienced some hot days. High temperatures can be harmful to many in our community, but especially to those aged 65 and over, young children, people living with chronic illnesses and disabilities, people experiencing homelessness, and those working or playing sports outdoors.

When temperatures rise, the City of Hamilton has two response stages, each triggered by different thresholds. A Heat Warning is called when the forecast calls for two or more consecutive days of daytime highs greater than or equal to 31°C and nighttime lows greater than or equal to 20°C or two or more consecutive days of a Humidex of 40°C or greater. An Extended Heat Warning is called when Hamilton has experienced three or more consecutive days of observed daytime highs greater than or equal to 31°C and nighttime lows greater than or equal to 20°C or three or more consecutive days of a Humidex of 40°C or greater.

The City of Hamilton offers a map of "cool places" to go during all stages of a heat event. These locations will have a "Cool Down Here" sign at their entrance. The City also offers maps of free public drinking fountains, outdoor/wading pools, spray pads, beaches, and rec centres/indoor pools that offer relief during a heat event. Hamilton Public Library branches are also designated as cooling spaces during heat events.

There are things residents can do to reduce their risk of heat-related illnesses. Before a heat event, residents can prepare themselves by:

  • Consulting with a medical professional about how your medication may impact you during heat events
  • Ensuring air conditioners and fans work properly
  • Find your nearest "cool place" to visit
  • Stay up-to-date with the local weather forecast

During a heat event, you can reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses by:

  • Drinking lots of water
  • Visiting air-conditioned spaces
  • Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothes and hats
  • Cooling yourself with tap water
  • Closing blinds and, if you do not have air conditioning, opening windows for air circulation
  • Limiting physical activity during the day
  • Cooking outside or eating cold meals
  • Checking in on neighbours and family members to see if they are okay
  • Ensuring pets and children are kept cool and never left alone in hot cars

Landlords and property managers also have a responsibility to their tenants and residents. It is important to have building staff check in on at-risk residents and provide residents with access to cool spaces, information on how to access cool places in Hamilton, and information about heat-related illness, and to post this information in common areas, such as the lobby. 

Remember to pay attention to local radio, television, and newspapers, as well as the City of Hamilton's official social media accounts and website, for updates from Public Health about heat warnings, tips, and services available in the community to beat the heat. Let's all stay safe and cool this summer in Hamilton!

Community Recognition & Awards

Do you know someone making a difference in Hamilton? Several City award programs are now accepting nominations.

  • Senior of the Year Awards recognize Hamilton residents aged 65+ who have made outstanding volunteer contributions to the social, cultural, or civic life of the community. Nominations close June 30, 2026. The City is also celebrating Seniors Month throughout June with free programs and activities for residents aged 55+.
  • Trillium Awards are celebrating 70 years of recognizing residents who beautify their neighbourhoods through exceptional front-yard gardens and landscaping. Nominations are open until July 1, 2026, with winners announced in September.
  • Accessibility Awards honour individuals, youth, businesses, and community organizations that are advancing accessibility and inclusion for persons with disabilities. Nominations close July 3, 2026, and recipients will be recognized at the Ability First Accessibility Fair on September 4.

If you know a deserving neighbour, volunteer, gardener, business, or community leader, consider submitting a nomination and helping celebrate the people who make Hamilton a better place to live.

Hamilton Public Library Summer Programming

HPL offers programs and special events for all ages, including computer classes, knitting, crafts, book clubs, digital technology and more. Find programs and events and a plethora of other resources at the Hamilton Public Library.

Property Tax E-Billing Scam

A person typing at a laptop with the overlaid text "Property Tax E-Billing Scam"

The City of Hamilton is warning residents of a scam targeting property taxpayers. The fraudulent email account "[email protected]" has been used to impersonate the City of Hamilton's property tax communications. This is not an email address affiliated with the City of Hamilton. The City of Hamilton will never request payment, deposits, banking information, passwords, verification codes, or sensitive personal information through personal, unofficial, or non-City email accounts.

All official City of Hamilton communications are sent from "@hamilton.ca" email addresses. The only legitimate tax communications will come from "[email protected]".

If residents receive an email from a fraudulent account or any other suspicious email address not from "@hamilton.ca", they are encouraged to report it as a "phishing" attempt. Phishing is a form of cyberattack in which criminals impersonate trusted organizations to deceive people and collect money and/or personal information. Remember, always be cautious with urgent requests, do not open suspicious links or attachments, and be on the lookout for impersonation tactics.

Opportunities to Participate with Engage Hamilton

The engage hamilton logo with the overlaid text "Have your say with Engage Hamilton"

The Engage Hamilton portal offers residents an opportunity to help shape the future of our city. Residents can provide important feedback, offer their unique insights, and help inform Hamilton's direction.

There are currently some opportunities to participate that may be of interest to Ward 1 residents:

  • Age-Friendly and Dementia-Inclusive Community Plan 2027-2031
    • Since 2007, Hamilton has been working to make our city more age-friendly. Building on this history and experience, the City wants to hear resident perspectives as it develops Hamilton's Age-Friendly and Dementia-Inclusive Community Plan for 2027 - 2031. As the community grows and changes, it is important for Hamilton to remain a place where people of all ages can live safely, stay active, and remain connected. The City of Hamilton wants to hear from residents aged 50 and older. Deadline: July 5, 2026 

  • Auchmar Estate Community Engagement
    • Auchmar Estate is a large property with a storied history, located on Hamilton Mountain at 88 Fennel Avenue, near Mohawk College and St. Joseph's Healthcare. The City of Hamilton is developing a plan for the future of Auchmar Estate and invites the public to help shape it. A vision for redevelopment has emerged that could include a unique mix of for-profit creative enterprises balanced with space for not-for-profit creative activities and community programs. Community members are asked to participate in a survey regarding Auchmar's future until June 30, 2026

Events - Ward 1

Local Farmers Markets

  • Good things grow in Ontario! Ward 1's delicious and local farmers' markets have returned for the season. Stop by and pick up some local produce, chat with your neighbours, and meet the people behind your food. This year, Ward 1 has two weekly farmers' markets to choose from:

Cemetery Chronicles - Naval Disasters Tour

  • June 21, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
  • Location: Hamilton Municipal Cemetery, 777 York Blvd
  • The Naval Disasters Tour is a unique opportunity to learn about some of the major naval disasters throughout history.  During the tour, participants will visit the gravesites of people who were causalities in these disasters that were either a result of war time sinking, human error or poor weather conditions and learn of the background behind them. This free event is being held in partnership with the Hamilton Military Museum.

Common Table Community Dialogue Series: The Village We Have, The Village We Need

  • June 23, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
  • Location: Strathcona Market, 460 York Blvd
  • Join Common Table on June 23 for "The Village We Have, The Village We Need" to explore the questions "What kind of village do we already have, and what kind of village do we want to grow together? What makes a city feel like home, safe, and connected?" Participants will share their favourite Hamilton places, hidden gems, community experiences, and local rituals that spark joy and a sense of belonging. Together, we’ll create a collective “map” of Hamilton’s strengths and explore ways to deepen connection, care, and community life. This free event features an open, respectful space for curiosity and community-building, an experienced facilitator to guide the conversation, and free pizza! Spots will fill up fast, so get your ticket today.

Stronger Together: Seniors' Safety and Connection Workshop Series

  • June 25, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM
  • Location: St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church, 320 Charlton Ave W
  • Join St. John the Evangelist Anglican Church and the Martin Fund for the Stronger Together senior workshop series. Learn practical tips on fraud prevention, wellness, and personal safety, with helpful resources to take home and opportunities to connect with others in the community. On April 30, the Hamilton Police Service will join to discuss scams. On May 14, learn how to age well from Shalem Mental Health Network. On June 11, RBC will be on hand to discuss fraud prevention, and on June 18, learn about how to go from victim to advocate after a scam. RSVP by emailing [email protected], calling 905-522-0602, or filling out an online form.

The Summer Shakespearience

  • July 6, 2026, to July 31, 2026
  • Location: St. Mary's High School, 200 Whitney Ave
  • Get thee to the Summer Shakespearience! For students from Grades 7 to 12, the Summer Shakespearience has participants rehearse, exactly as do professionals, to complete scenes from Shakespeare’s plays linked by a common theme. Taught by certified teaching professionals, voice, movement, stage combat, improv, and mask experts, and professional actors, this exciting and challenging rehearsal process culminates in a performance for family and friends at a professional theatre in Toronto. This is a FREE experience thanks to generous donors. This is a great experience for the young Thespian in your life.

Blooms for Africa Native Garden Tour

  • July 10, 2026, and July 11, 2026, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
  • Location: Across West Hamilton and Dundas
  • Blooms for Africa, a Grandmothers to Grandmothers Group of the Stephen Lewis Foundation, is having a Garden Tour of Native Gardens in Dundas and West Hamilton. This evening tour will feature 12 local native gardens where the gardeners will be home to share their stories. This initiative of Blooms for Africa has a goal of raising $500,000 for the Stephen Lewis Foundation and the important work they do to help communities in Africa reclaim hope and rebuild resilience. "Passports" to the Native Garden Tour are available at the Wildflower Spa at 150 Locke St S and at locations across Ancaster, Dundas, Waterdown, and Burlington. They can also be obtained by calling 905-527-0470. Passports are $20 cash.

Events - Explore Your City

The Hidden Gardens of Durand

  • June 20, 2026, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Location: Across Durand
  • Experience the hidden gardens of Hamilton’s historic southwest at the 2026 Grand Durand Garden Tour! This exclusive self-guided tour invites you beyond the gates of some of the city’s most historic homes on Saturday, June 20. With past tours selling out quickly, this year’s event is expected to do the same. Tickets are $35 and are available now. Grab a ticket and discover the beauty and elegance of the Durand neighbourhood. For questions/inquiries, please contact the organizers at [email protected].

Soaring Spirit Pow Wow Festival

  • June 19, 20, and 21, 2026
  • Location: Battlefield Park, 77 King St W, Stoney Creek
  • Enjoy a weekend of celebrations at the 29th Annual Soaring Spirit Indigenous Festival and Pow Wow in Battlefield Park. Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day, this three-day event features live music, storytelling, and the awesome Indigenous Arts, Crafts, Trade & Food Show. Be sure to experience the POW WOW on Saturday and Sunday, with the powerful sunrise ceremonies, incredible dancing, and the sound of the drums. This welcoming event is a chance for the whole family to explore Indigenous culture and tradition.

FrancoFest

  • Juin 19, 20, et 21, 2026
  • Location: Parc Gage, 1000 Main St E
  • FrancoFEST, ce sont trois jours de fête au rythme de la Francophonie! Rejoignez-nous les 19, 20 et 21 juin, 2026, au parc Gage, en plein cœur de Hamilton pour une programmation artistique dynamique, des expériences culturelles immersives, et une atmosphère festive pour tous les âges. Concerts, activités, découvertes et connexions se réunissent pour créer un événement dynamique et inspirant. Découvrez la Francophonie à travers la musique, le mouvement et la communauté. ---
  • FrancoFEST is three days of celebration set to the rhythm of the Francophonie! Join us on June 19, 20, and 21, 2026, at Gage Park in the heart of Hamilton for a vibrant artistic lineup, immersive cultural experiences, and a festive atmosphere for all ages. Concerts, activities, discoveries, and connections come together to create a dynamic and inspiring event. Experience the Francophonie through music, movement, and community.

Punching In: The Work of Hamilton Music

  • Now to Friday, December 31, 2026
  • Location: Tourism Hamilton Visitor Experience Centre, 28 James St N
  • Celebrate Hamilton's thriving music scene and the journey of music-making with "Punching In", an exhibit curated by Hamilton Civic Museums in collaboration with the Hamilton music community! Learn about the contributions of promoters, venue owners, songwriters, photographers and sound engineers to your favourite Hamilton songs, and revel in the nostalgia of iconic Hamilton concerts and music venues, past and present. The exhibit will highlight local musicians, including Jackie Washington, Boris Brott, Terra Lightfoot, and the Arkells, as well as the industry that helps to create and share this music. 

Greener Ward 1

A meadow of wildflowers on a hillside with the overlaid text "Greener Ward 1"

Let's do our part in Ward 1 to create healthy, biodiverse neighbourhoods for all living things! Check out Greener Ward 1!

Ward 1 Infrastructure Updates

A small truck moving a tiny boulder with the overlaid text "Infrastructure Updates"

For up-to-date information on all the infrastructure projects happening in Ward 1, check out our Ward 1 Infrastructure Projects webpage.

Ward 1 Development Information

A skyline full of cranes over a half-finished residential construction project made of concrete with the overlaid text "Ward 1 Development Information"

Here you can find general information on developments and their status in the planning process.

Follow along for timely Ward 1 Updates via:   

               

The City of Hamilton is situated upon the traditional territories of the Erie, Neutral, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee and Mississaugas. This land is covered by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, which was an agreement between the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabek to share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes. We further acknowledge that this land is covered by the Between the Lakes Purchase, 1792, between the Crown and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. 

Today, the City of Hamilton is home to many Indigenous people from across Turtle Island (North America), and we recognise that we must do more to learn about the rich history of this land so that we can better understand our roles as residents, neighbours, partners and caretakers. 

Learn more about the City of Hamilton's Land Acknowledgement here.

Maureen Wilson, Ward 1 City Councillor
City Hall, 71 Main St W, 2nd Floor
Hamilton, On, L8P 4Y5
Phone: 905-546-2416
Email: [email protected]

      

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