New downtown infill development and extension to historic Lister Block
HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton has announced a formal agreement with the Labourers’ International Union of North America (LiUNA) to acquire and develop a parcel of LiUNA-owned land adjacent to the City-owned Lister Block building. The project would include the construction of an addition (Annex) to the historic Lister Block building, with completion anticipated later this year.
Once completed, the Annex would fill in the final “missing tooth” along the north side of King William Street between James Street and Hughson Street. The six-floor Annex would include approximately 15,981 square feet of net, new useable office space directly connected with the existing City offices. It also would add 3,336 square feet of ground floor commercial space, which would be highly suitable for a restaurant use that would add to the growing culinary scene that has opened up along King William Street.
“This continuation of the Lister Block development is another example of how the City is continuing to support and nurture the revitalization of our downtown. This development will provide value for money as it allows us to house City staff that are currently housed in leased space while generating revenue through the commercial space,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger.
Lister Block is a designated heritage building that underwent a large-scale restoration by LiUNA from 2008 to 2012. Purchased by the City of Hamilton in 2012, currently the Lister Block serves as office space for City staff and a centre for tourism promotion, as well as commercial space.
“Redeveloping vacant lots and adding new office and commercial space is a critical part of the City’s strategy for downtown renewal. We also want to make sure that any new development is sensitive to the very significant historic context of the Lister Block and King William Street, so that will be an important consideration as this proposal works its way through the development approvals process,” commented Jason Thorne, General Manager of Planning and Economic Development.
“Everything is in place from the people, tools and technology to cost effectively build-out the new Annex. Construction staff, who are at the ready, are able to take on the Annex project in addition to the use of equipment that is being utilized for nearby LiUNA projects. The adjacency of land enables the City to provide a significantly cost effective approach in order for the City to expand its offices,” notes Councillor Jason Farr.
The agreement with LiUNA to develop the King William site represents a time-sensitive opportunity that fits within the context of the City’s overall Accommodation Plan that is currently being developed.
“LiUNA is pleased to continue our commitment to city building and to be part of the next stage of the Lister Block Development. We are furthering this positive and successful business relationship that goes back to 2008,” says Joseph S. Mancinelli, LiUNA International Vice President and Regional Manager, Central and Eastern Canada.
LiUNA, as the project developer, submitted a site plan application for the City’s review and approval on January 18, 2018.