Hamilton’s capital budget finalized for 2019

City council has given its final approval to Hamilton’s 2019 tax-supported capital budget.

The approval supports more than $227 million in capital infrastructure projects, with a focus on roads and transit services.

Over $96 million in spending will go towards roads, bridges and sidewalks, while transit-related initiatives are valued at $24 million.

Other big-ticket items include repairs to entertainment facilities, affordable housing, West Harbour development, fire and paramedic services and waste management.

The increase in capital funding from property taxes adds up to $4.4 million, or $18 per year for an average household.

2019 tax-supported capital budget highlights

• $75.8 million — roads, bridges, traffic and sidewalks
• $24.3 million — transit initiatives
• $20.9 million — roads growth
• $15.9 million — corporate and recreation facilities
• $10.7 million — fire and paramedic services
• $10.0 million — central fleet vehicle replacement
• $8.3 million — open space development
• $8.2 million — West Harbour strategic initiatives
• $7.5 million — affordable housing initiatives
• $4.5 million — forestry and horticulture
• $3.7 million — waste management initiatives
• $2.8 million — entertainment facility rehabilitation
• $2.6 million — parks and cemeteries
• $2.4 million — information technology

Discussions around the 2019 operating budget will continue Thursday morning at Hamilton City Hall with the public library, farmer’s market and Hamilton Police Services budgets up for debate.