City investing over $150 million in 2026 to repair and renew roads across the city

Investment will improve safety and reliability for residents

HAMILTON, ON – The City of Hamilton is investing more than $150 million in 2026 into active transportation, growth related infrastructure, rehabilitation and repaving of roads across the city; improving safety, traffic flow and everyday travel for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

During the City’s budget engagement process, residents identified infrastructure renewal and road conditions as top priorities. The 2026 Budget responds with sustained investment in both immediate repairs and long-term renewal. Of the approximate $150 million total investment, $106.1 million will be dedicated specifically to renewing and replacing existing roads, bridges and sidewalks, as part of the City’s broader $622 million infrastructure program.

“Hamiltonians have been clear: better roads are a priority. Whether you’re commuting to work, getting your kids to school, running a small business, or taking transit across the city - safe, reliable roads matter.” said Mayor Andrea Horwath. “That’s why the 2026 budget invests $106.1 million on resurfacing, rehabilitating, and replacing roads to improve pavement condition across Hamilton. This is about fixing what needs fixing, potholes, extending the life of our infrastructure, and making sure people can move around our city safely and efficiently. With crews out this spring addressing potholes and resurfacing key corridors, residents will see real, visible improvements in their neighbourhoods. This is your tax dollars at work - strengthening our infrastructure, improving safety, and supporting a growing city.”

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

Winter weather and freeze–thaw cycles place significant stress on pavement, accelerating surface deterioration and increasing repair needs. As Hamilton grows, demand on roads, bridges and sidewalks continues to increase.

On average, the City completes between 70,000 and 90,000 road repairs each year, reflecting both the size of the network and the impact of seasonal weather conditions. Potholes are repaired year-round and during winter months crews use materials designed for cold and wet conditions to address roadway surface issues as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Each spring, as temperatures stabilize and more potholes are revealed, the City initiates its extended pothole repair program, where crews undertake a proactive and concentrated effort to repair roadways impacted by winter weather.

Roads and transportation infrastructure represent one of the largest areas of municipal spending, reflecting the importance residents place on maintaining safe and reliable streets. On average, the City spends approximately $3.5 million per year repairing potholes. 

“Maintaining safe and reliable roads is one of the City’s most important responsibilities and requires careful planning,” said Marnie Cluckie, City Manager. “This investment allows us to address immediate repair needs while continuing the long-term renewal of Hamilton’s transportation network. Strategic maintenance and rehabilitation help extend the life of our infrastructure and ensure residents can move safely and efficiently across the city.” 

2026 Road and Transportation Projects

There are multiple road resurfacing and reconstruction projects planned for 2026. Notable projects include:

Resurfacing projects

• Barton Street East – Kenilworth Avenue to Emerald Street
• Charlton Avenue East – John Street S to James Street S
• James Street S – Charlton Avenue East to St. James Place
• Charlton Avenue West – Queen St to James St
• King Street East – Pottruff Road to Centennial Parkway

Reconstruction and rehabilitation projects

• Nebo Road – Rymal Road East to Twenty Road East: new sidewalks and a multi-use path
• Main Street – Dundurn Street to Delta intersection (Main St E and King St E): rehabilitation and conversion from one-way to two-way
• Mountain Park Avenue Phase 02 – Poplar Avenue to Bridge over Sherman Access and Mountain Brow Trail enhancements: modernized roadway with active transportation facilities and watermain replacement
• Sherman Cut – steel wall replacement and road resurfacing
• Scenic Drive – Chateau Court to Goulding Avenue: road reconstruction with active transportation facilities and storm and watermain replacements

Additional details on project timelines and impacts will be provided as construction schedules are finalized.

• In late winter and early spring, roads may also feel rougher even where potholes are not visible. This is often caused by freeze–thaw movement in the ground beneath the pavement. As frost forms and thaws, the soil can expand and contract, creating temporary surface unevenness. While this may appear as rapid deterioration, it is often related to seasonal ground movement and will likely stabilize once warmer, drier conditions return.
• Residents can report road condition concerns, such as potholes, by contacting the City’s Customer Service Contact Centre at 905-546-2489 between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm, dialing 311 or emailing [email protected] and providing the nearest address or intersection.