Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) sought to rehabilitate a five-hectare site to allow expansion of the Hamilton General Hospital.  This project resulted in the transformation of underutilized, abandoned and derelict former industrial lands located in the inner city core to a productive re-use involving medical research and rehabilitation which meets the needs of Hamilton and the surrounding areas. The project relied heavily on partnerships with public and private sector organizations, and leveraged funding sources for planning and capital financing. Innovative risk management approaches were employed making the project cost feasible. The project aligns with the City’s redevelopment plans and acts as a catalyst for further revitalization of neighbouring lands. 

The City offered to sell four vacant industrial properties adjacent to the hospital to HHS for a nominal sum and provide financial and technical assistance with the cleanup and redevelopment of the site through its Environmental Remediation and Site Enhancement (ERASE) CIP. The City utilized new provisions in Ontario’s Brownfield legislation to facilitate a tax sale without inheriting the lands’ environmental liabilities. 

The City’s Brownfield Development Office provided key input and assistance throughout the project including guidance on regulatory and planning issues. The project was made financially feasible through support from FCM’s Green Municipal Fund (GMF) and the City’s ERASE program, and utilization of a risk management approach to remediation that resulted in overall cost savings. To offset environmental and risk assessment study costs, a GMEF Grant of $175,000 was obtained by HHS. On September 1, 2009, HHS was able to secure capital financing for the new hospital facilities through its Cornerstone of Care fundraising program, private sector donations together with significant contributions from the Provincial and Federal governments.