Hamilton’s Woodlands Park washroom set to finish repairs by mid-summer

The City of Hamilton says construction to rebuild the Woodlands Park washroom on Barton St. East is expected to finish by mid-summer.

A fire broke out at the structure at the park at 501 Barton St. East on the afternoon of Jan. 2, 2024, which severely damaged the washroom and caused an estimated $500,000 in damages.

Fire Chief Dave Cunliffe said at the time that no one was injured, but it is unknown the number of people that were displaced as a result of the fire.

The city says they were able to pass the preliminary assessment phase, and obtained the building permit April 4, to begin repairs.

Contractors began to work on the site April 28, with replacement roof trusses arriving on the site Monday.

City staff says the construction will not impact the rest of the park, and residents can still use the pathways, soccer field, and playground during the repairs.

They say the full restoration of the washroom’s roof and interior will be finished late July to early August.

The city told CHCH News that the repairs are forecasted to cost approximately $1.3 million to $1.4 million, with the expectation that the city’s insurer will cover the costs above the $500,000 deductible.

A new spray pad, sun shelter and seating was added to the park last summer, with plans for a grand opening ceremony to be held in June.

The city says the spray pad will be operational for the 2025 season.

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