Royal Botanical Garden, Hamilton projects share in $10M in renovation funding
Canada’s largest botanical garden has received a significant sum to carry out some much-needed repairs.
On May 15, the provincial and federal governments announced combined funding of more than $1.6 million to perform construction and renovation work at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. The federal government has committed $908,000 to the project, the province $756,000, and the Royal Botanical Gardens more than $605,000.
Project work calls for rebuilding a boathouse, a viewing platform and boardwalk; repairing nature trails and garden paths; and installing an entry gate for the Hendrie Valley Trails. Improvements also include enlarging the Rock Trail parking lot to make it more accessible, and updating wayfinding signage and audio units so the facility comes into compliance with Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.
The improvements, say the governments, will create a more safe and accessible space, while also providing a more enjoyable visitor experience.
"Royal Botanical Gardens is committed to providing a safe destination for people from all walks of life to immerse themselves in diverse outdoor experiences and inspiring landscapes,” said CEO Nancy Rowland. “This initiative will facilitate accessibility improvements that strengthen this commitment, allowing RBG welcome even more people looking to make a special connection to the natural world.”
Meanwhile, earlier in April, the federal and provincial governments and various community organizations announced a spend of nearly $8.5 million on four community recreation infrastructure projects in Hamilton.
The City of Hamilton will use most of the funding to undertake three projects to improve six recreational facilities. The Central Memorial Recreation Centre will replace its elevator, improving accessibility and the quality of service for its patrons. The Hamilton Amateur Athletic Association Park redevelopment project will create barrier-free accessible pathways throughout the park, improve drainage and upgrade lighting. The third project will see the repair and replacement of roofs at the Mohawk Ice Centre, Benneto Community Centre, Dundas Community Pool, and Chedoke Golf Club.
As well, the Eva Rothwell Centre will renovate its gymnasium to include new flooring with multi-sport court lines, new adjustable basketball nets, and improvements to safety features to reduce the risk of injury during activities. These improvements will provide greater access to recreational opportunities for youth of all ages, including persons with disabilities.
"Recreation facilities are a vital part of the fabric of our community, supporting the health and wellbeing of our people and promoting opportunities for active living in a safe, inclusive environment,” said Hamilton Mayor Fred Eisenberger. “This investment will provide for renovations, retrofits and redevelopments that will modernize these facilities and ensure they can be enjoyed by our community for years to come."