Hamilton police downtown substation opens to respond to community concerns

A new Hamilton police substation is officially open to allow for a dedicated law enforcement presence in the city’s downtown core.

The location at 2 King St. West in Jackson Square will enable officers to respond directly to “concerns raised by downtown businesses, residents, service providers and community partners about safety, visibility and the need for stronger connections in the core,” reads a statement from Hamilton police.

Last month, Hamilton police hosted a Downtown Safety Summit, bringing together a broad cross-section of local partners to discuss the challenges facing the area and identify practical steps to support a safer, more vibrant and welcoming downtown.

One of the action items identified was exploring the feasibility of a police substation.

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“We heard clearly from businesses and residents that a stronger police presence downtown matters,” said Chief Frank Bergen.

“This substation puts our officers closer to the people we serve, increases visibility, and strengthens our work with partners to keep downtown Hamilton safe, welcoming and vibrant.”

The 3,504-square-foot area will be staffed using current Hamilton police resources and will support the ongoing work of CORE Patrol and other members assigned to safety initiatives in the area.

“We are not alone in wanting people to feel safer moving throughout the downtown core. The Downtown Safety Summit demonstrated a real collective energy for positive change by the city, businesses and community partners,” said Bergen.

Hours of operation will be from Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Hamilton police say that the City of Hamilton is leasing the space for $1 per year over the next two years from Jackson Square.

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