Plans & Strategies
Connected Communities
A Framework for a More Connected Hamilton: Bringing Together People, Technology and Infrastructure to Support Community and Economic Growth.
Hamilton is growing, and with that growth comes a unique opportunity to shape a more inclusive, resilient, and future-ready city.
The Connected Communities Strategy provides a clear vision to strengthen how residents, businesses, and community partners interact with services, opportunities, and each other physically, digitally, and socially.
Connectivity is more than a technical upgrade; it’s a foundation for inclusion, innovation, and engagement. By aligning with Council priorities and building on ongoing strategic investments, this strategy supports Hamilton’s evolution into a city where everyone can participate and succeed.
Why a Connected Community Strategy
Hamilton’s approach goes beyond the conventional “smart city” concept, prioritizing people over technology. While smart cities leverage data to optimize infrastructure and services, Connected Communities ensure technology fosters inclusion, ignites innovation, and deepens civic participation. This approach is grounded in three core principles:
Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA): Removing barriers so every resident can fully participate in city life.
Public Engagement: Creating meaningful ways for residents, businesses, and partners to shape city decisions.
Transparency and Accountability: Building trust through clear communication, data-driven decisions, and measurable outcomes.
Hamilton’s Framework of Connectivity
To achieve this vision, the Connected Community Strategy calls for a shift in mindset, one that recognizes the value of connection across all projects and services. By breaking down silos and embedding connectivity into how we plan, build and collaborate, we can create a more integrated, inclusive and innovative Hamilton. This approach is grounded in three interconnected pillars:
Physical Connectivity refers to the infrastructure that connects people, goods, and services across Hamilton. This includes transportation networks, parks, utilities, and the built environment. It ensures residents can move easily, access essential services, and enjoy public spaces that support quality of life.
Digital Connectivity focuses on technology and digital infrastructure that enable seamless access to information, services, and opportunities. By bridging the digital divide, the City can ensure equitable access to high-speed internet, smart city tools, and digital public services for all residents and businesses. Within this pillar, Focus Area 5, High-Speed Internet & Broadband also serves as Hamilton’s Broadband Strategy (2025–2027), setting out the objectives, delivery approach, and near-term priorities.
Social Connectivity emphasizes relationships, inclusivity, and collaboration to build a sense of community and shared purpose. It supports economic growth by attracting, training, and retaining talent, fostering innovation, and ensuring access to health and social services.
Relationship to Council Strategic Priorities
The Connected Communities Strategy directly supports the following 2022–2026 Council Priorities:
- Sustainable Economic & Ecological Development: The Strategy reinforces this priority by aligning existing efforts to grow key sectors, accelerate climate action, and modernize infrastructure in ways that support long-term sustainability and economic resilience. It highlights synergies between digital infrastructure, energy efficiency, and environmental stewardship initiatives already in progress.
- Safe & Thriving Neighbourhoods: Through its focus on physical and social connectivity, the Strategy brings together ongoing work to improve mobility options, enhance access to parks and recreation, and support vibrant, inclusive public spaces that contribute to community well-being.
- Responsiveness & Transparency: The Strategy aligns digital service improvements, open data initiatives, and engagement tools to enhance transparency, responsiveness, and resident participation in decision-making. It supports a more coordinated approach to service delivery and public communication.
A Call to Action
This strategy is more than a roadmap. It’s a call to action for residents, businesses, institutions, and community partners to build a city that is innovative, inclusive, and sustainable. Hamilton is ready for the future. Let’s build it together.
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