Hamilton's Beasley Park among six projects to get a combined $3.6m in federal funding

The federal government is investing$3.6 millionin six infrastructure projects in Hamilton,including the redevelopment of Beasley Park.

Thefunding includes $750,000to support the redevelopment of the park's accessible path network and the conversion of Kelly Street, which runs from the east side of the park toward Ferguson Avenue North,into a public green space.

"The federal government recognizes the amazing potential of this city and we are here to ensure that we bring that potential into a reality," said city manager, Janette Smith.

At a press conferenceheld on Friday at the Tourism Hamilton Visitor Centre on James Street North, local MP andMinister of Public Services and ProcurementFilomena Tassirevealed thesix project which will receive support fromtheFederal Development Agency of Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario). The funding willbe made through the Canada Community Revitalization Fundand the Tourism Relief Fund.

The five other projects include redevelopment of Victoria Park, the creation of additional space and heritage building at theHamilton Children's Museum, improved washroom accessibility at recreation centres, restoration of St. Mark's Church as a cultural programming space and a new Visitor Experience Centre.

Smith acknowledged Hamilton as Canada's most diversified economy, and said "known for its strong industry, green spaces and arts and culture scenes, Hamilton is a major contributor to the regional and national economy."

Mayor Fred Eisenberger expressed fondness for each project, saying how interesting it was to see "the renaissance that's happening on James [street] and in the city as a whole."

"Great things are happening.Lots of great investments are occurring and it's to the betterment of our city and our people," he said.