Official ribbon cutting ceremony on Locke Street

HAMILTON, ON -This morning, His Worship, Mayor Fred Eisenberger, and Ward 1 Councillor Maureen Wilson welcomed members of the Locke Street BIA and City staff to formally re-open Locke Street after long-term reconstruction closed the road for several months.

“Locke Street is one of our city’s most diverse shopping districts. Over the past eight months, City staff did an exceptional job in replacing and updating the aging infrastructure, bringing new life to the street and surrounding neighbourhood.  I would like to thank residents, businesses and visitors of Locke Street for their support and patience as staff worked to make necessary upgrades. I am thrilled the street is now fully open and I invite residents and visitors alike to come and explore our Locke Street businesses.”
Mayor Fred Eisenberger

The road re-opened to two-way traffic last week and major reconstruction along the street will be wrapping up over the coming weeks.

The $6 million project began on Locke Street in March 2019, and has included:

• Road reconstruction, including new curbs, sidewalks, bump outs and a freshly paved road surface
• Improved accessibility including urban braille and wider sidewalks
• Underground improvements including new 500mm and 200mm watermains and sewer lining
• Bike lanes will be installed from Hunter Street West to King Street West.
• Street furniture, urban trees, increased parking, and a coloured concrete boulevard.

“Locke Street is an important gathering space in the Kirkendall neighbourhood. It’s vibrancy and warmth creates a sense of community for residents and guests. I am thrilled to see the rejuvenation of the physical infrastructure come to its conclusion, and look forward to the many opportunities join together here.”
Ward One Councillor, Maureen Wilson

Several events are planning to celebrate the re-opening of Locke Street, including:

Christmas on Locke Tree Lighting Ceremony
The community is invited to attend a tree lighting ceremony to celebrate the start of the holiday shopping season on Locke Street.

Date: Friday, November 15, 2019
Time: 6  to 9 pm, Ceremony at 7 pm
Location: Christmas tree is located near West Town
Details: Shops will be open until 9 pm. Live music, treats, carriage rides and special appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus

Community Grand Street Re-Opening Celebration
The community is invited to attend the Grand Street Re-Opening Celebration.

Date: Saturday, November 30, 2019
Details: Street corner activations from 11 am to 4 pm, Swag bag giveaways. Walking tours of Locke Street

“Locke Street is far more than just a transportation artery in our city. Locke Street is a hub that connects our community – it is vital to the thriving Kirkendall neighbourhood, it is a hub where residents and businesses can meaningfully connect. It’s a place where our neighbours meet and mingle. It’s a destination of hospitality, of a small historic town feel in a big and growing city.”
Heidi VanderKwaak, Owner Donut Monster and Chair Locke Street BIA

This morning, special guests and media officially re-opened Locke Street and took a brief walking tour of the new street. Residents are encouraged to come visit the newly reconstructed Locke Street over the coming weeks.