City of Hamilton Investing Over $150 Million in Roads and Transportation Infrastructure in 2026

The City of Hamilton is investing more than $150 million in 2026 to improve roads and transportation infrastructure across the city. These investments support road resurfacing, reconstruction projects, active transportation improvements, and other upgrades that help residents travel safely and efficiently.

During the City’s recent budget engagement process, residents identified road conditions and infrastructure renewal as top priorities. The 2026 Budget includes sustained investment to address both immediate repair needs and long-term infrastructure renewal.

Of the approximately $150 million total investment, $106.1 million is dedicated specifically to renewing and replacing existing roads, bridges and sidewalks as part of Hamilton’s broader $622 million infrastructure program.

Mayor Andrea Horwath noted that residents have made it clear that safe, reliable roads remain a priority for communities across Hamilton. The 2026 budget includes funding to resurface, rehabilitate and replace roads throughout the city, improving pavement conditions and supporting safer travel for drivers, transit users, cyclists and pedestrians.

Maintaining Hamilton’s Road Network

The City proactively maintains approximately 6,500 lane kilometres of roads, along with sidewalks, bridges, street lighting and other related infrastructure. Regular inspections help identify cracks, potholes and other maintenance needs so repairs can be scheduled.

Winter weather and freeze–thaw cycles place significant stress on pavement surfaces and can accelerate deterioration. As the city continues to grow, the demand on transportation infrastructure also increases.

On average, City crews complete between 70,000 and 90,000 road repairs each year, reflecting both the size of Hamilton’s road network and the impact of seasonal weather conditions.

Potholes are repaired year-round. During winter months crews use specialized materials designed for cold and wet conditions. Each spring, once temperatures stabilize, the City launches an extended pothole repair program focused on repairing roadway damage caused by winter weather.

Hamilton spends approximately $3.5 million annually on pothole repairs.

City Manager Marnie Cluckie emphasized that maintaining safe and reliable roads requires ongoing planning and investment. Strategic maintenance and rehabilitation help extend the life of infrastructure while ensuring residents can move safely and efficiently throughout the city.

Notable 2026 Road and Transportation Projects

Several resurfacing, reconstruction and rehabilitation projects are planned across Hamilton in 2026.

Resurfacing projects include:

• Barton Street East (Kenilworth Avenue to Emerald Street)

• Charlton Avenue East (John Street South to James Street South)

• James Street South (Charlton Avenue East to St. James Place)

• Charlton Avenue West (Queen Street to James Street)

• King Street East (Pottruff Road to Centennial Parkway)

Reconstruction and rehabilitation projects include:

• Nebo Road – Rymal Road East to Twenty Road East, including new sidewalks and a multi-use path

• Main Street – Dundurn Street to the Delta intersection (Main Street East and King Street East), including rehabilitation and conversion from one-way to two-way traffic

• Mountain Park Avenue Phase 2 – Poplar Avenue to the bridge over the Sherman Access, including roadway upgrades, active transportation facilities and watermain replacement

• Sherman Cut – steel wall replacement and road resurfacing

• Scenic Drive – Chateau Court to Goulding Avenue, including road reconstruction with active transportation facilities and storm and watermain replacements

More details about construction timelines and traffic impacts will be shared as project schedules are finalized.

Why Roads Can Feel Rough in Late Winter

In late winter and early spring, roads may feel uneven even when potholes are not visible. This is often caused by freeze–thaw movement beneath the pavement.

As frost forms and melts in the soil below the roadway, the ground can expand and contract. This movement can temporarily affect the surface of the road. In many cases, conditions improve once temperatures warm and the ground stabilizes.

Reporting Road Concerns

Residents who notice potholes or other road condition concerns can report them to the City of Hamilton by:

• Dialing 311

• Calling 905-546-2489 (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)

• Emailing pothole@hamilton.ca

When reporting a concern, residents should include the nearest address or intersection to help crews locate the issue.

Additional information about road maintenance programs is available on the City of Hamilton Road & Sidewalk Maintenance webpage.