Published by: Geoff Smith           February 26, 2022

Expected Revitalization of Downtown Cores

Like many other cities across the country, a lot of local businesses in both Burlington and Hamilton have taken some of the hardest hits from the pandemic closures and restrictions. The side effect of these measures has been that these once vibrant and attractive destinations have been diminished in their prominence. When it comes to housing decisions many left these downtown cores for more space and more property once the pandemic fully hit.

With the end of the pandemic hopefully on the horizon as Omnicron blasts through the population, many are once again taking a serious look at the downtown cores as life expects to resume in a somewhat normal fashion once again. Businesses are again looking forward with anticipation that they have weathered the storm and will once again invest in the future prospects of their businesses.

Hamilton has seen a lot of interest as people have been moving west from the GTA as the housing combined with city life is much more affordable vs Toronto living. The costs of living in Hamilton makes it an attractive alternative while still being within reach of the GTA for work. It is an attractive place to call home for those who want the city life at an affordable cost. Hamilton city council has also just set the stage for millions in investment into its downtown core. The First Ontario Center alone will see a $50M overhaul including $12.5M in the Convention Centre and Concert Hall by the Precinct Group.

Burlington albeit not as affordable as Hamilton is still moderately more affordable than living in Toronto and the city just released the downtown development from a 1 year freeze. This freeze allowed the city to consider what the right amount of growth is for the downtown and around the Fairview GO station. These efforts will now focus growth around the GO station and ensure the city has the right developments in the right place at the right scale.