Bringing Baseball Back: Mount Hope Park's New Chapter

Mount Hope Park: Bringing the Diamond Back to Life

When I first became your Councillor, I took a walk through Mount Hope Park and saw something that stuck with me. The ball diamond - a place best filled with energy, cheers, and community -had gone quiet. But I didn’t see neglect. I saw potential.

And I’m proud to say that vision has now come full circle.

Restoring the Heart of the Park

Revitalizing Mount Hope Park wasn’t just about fences or signs. It was about reviving a cherished gathering place. For generations, this park has been a home base for families, players, and fans - and I knew it could be that again.

We began by installing new fencing around the outfield and adding updated signage at the park. These weren’t just surface-level upgrades - they were safety-focused, practical changes that make the space more welcoming and functional for everyone. Whether you’re watching a game, taking a walk, or stepping up to the plate, you’ll feel the difference.

The new fencing keeps the play area clearly marked, allows the community to walk safely on the path around the diamond, and gives our entire community a field that we can be proud of.

A Full-Circle Moment

At the season opener for the Binbrook Bisons Girls Fastball team, I was invited to throw the first pitch. Standing on that mound, I had a moment of reflection. The last time I’d stood there was nearly ten years ago, for the final game of the Glanbrook Slo-Pitch League.

Now, here we were again. The diamond was alive with the sounds of kids playing, the cheers of proud families, and that unmistakable crack of the bat. It hit home just how far we’ve come. We didn’t just repair a ball field—we reawakened a tradition.

Building Momentum

This revitalisation is already making a difference. Teams are playing in the park. The Bisons are just the beginning. With these upgrades, Mount Hope Park is once again a place where local athletics can grow and thrive, for all ages and skill levels.

We also made sure to honour the people who helped shape this space. The updated signage now includes a tribute to Mount Hope's own Gord Oakes, a fastball catcher in the 1950s and community icon whose name belongs on this diamond. It’s a nod to our history - and a commitment to preserving it.

More Than a Game

At the end of the day, this is about more than just sports. It’s about creating safe, welcoming places where kids can learn teamwork, where neighbours can gather, and where our community spirit can shine.

As we kick off this season with a renewed sense of pride, I want to thank everyone who believed in this project. I’m excited to see how Mount Hope Park continues to grow as a place for connection, recreation, and community pride.

Let’s play ball - and let’s keep building a Ward 11 we’re all proud to call home.

~Cllr Mark

Councillor Tadeson represents Ward 11 and continues to advocate for community infrastructure improvements and recreational opportunities throughout Hamilton.