Province moves forward with infrastructure work as part of broader transit expansion strategy
The Ontario government has taken a significant step toward delivering the long-planned Hamilton Light Rail Transit (LRT) system, awarding the first major civil and utilities contract for the project. The move signals a transition from planning to early construction activity, reinforcing the province’s broader strategy to expand transit infrastructure across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
Announced on April 30, 2026, the contract covers preparatory work along the 14-kilometre LRT corridor and is expected to generate substantial economic activity. Provincial officials estimate the project will support approximately 6,000 jobs annually during construction and up to 1,000 permanent roles once operations begin.
“Our government is making historic investments in public transit to fight gridlock and keep people moving,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “Today’s milestone brings us one step closer to delivering the Hamilton LRT, a project that will support 50,000 daily riders, connecting more people to jobs and housing and giving families and workers more choice and better access to fast, affordable public transit.”
Civil and utility upgrades lay groundwork for major construction
Early works include road reconstruction, utility relocation and bridge upgrades
The awarded contract focuses on foundational infrastructure work required before full-scale rail construction can begin. This includes relocating utilities, reconstructing roads, upgrading sidewalks and modernizing traffic control systems along the corridor.
Key components of the project involve complex engineering upgrades, including plans to replace a bridge over Highway 403, construct a new LRT underpass beneath the Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) Hamilton Subdivision near Gage Avenue, and improve the Queenston Road bridge over the Red Hill Valley Parkway.
The scope of work also includes:
- 14 kilometres of sewer replacement and separation
- 16 kilometres of watermain replacement
- 14 kilometres of road reconstruction
- 28 kilometres of upgraded sidewalks
- 62 upgraded traffic signals
The contract has been awarded to the Hamilton Transit Alliance, led by Aecon Infrastructure Inc., marking a key milestone in project delivery.
Economic and connectivity benefits drive investment
LRT expected to support jobs, housing access and downtown revitalization
Once completed, the Hamilton LRT will connect major destinations across the city, including McMaster University, Hamilton Stadium, Eastgate Square, Ottawa Street, Gage Park and the downtown core. It will also integrate with existing Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) and GO Transit services, enhancing regional connectivity.
Provincial and municipal leaders say the project will play a central role in supporting economic growth and urban development along the corridor.
“Today we take a significant step towards a new light rail transit line for Hamilton that will support the city’s growth and connect families, workers and students to fast and reliable transit. Thanks to Premier Ford’s leadership, our government is investing a historic $70 billion in transit infrastructure as part of our $236 billion capital plan to strengthen communities, keep workers on the job and protect Ontario.”
- Todd McCarthy
Acting Minister of Infrastructure
“Our government is investing in critical infrastructure to support public transit users right here in Hamilton. The LRT will allow a reliable way to travel across Hamilton, bringing movement to our downtown core and supporting our economy including our local businesses and services.”
- Monica Ciriello
MPP for Hamilton Mountain
“The construction of the Hamilton LRT represents one of the most significant transit investments in our city’s history. Today’s announcement moves us closer to a faster, more efficient, and more affordable commute for thousands of workers, students and travelers who call Hamilton home.”
- Neil Lumsden
MPP for Hamilton East – Stoney Creek
Multi-level government and industry support
Project positioned as catalyst for long-term growth
The Hamilton LRT is being funded through a joint provincial and federal investment of up to $3.4 billion, forming part of Ontario’s $70 billion transit expansion plan—the largest in North America.
Stakeholders across government, academia and industry have emphasized the project’s long-term economic and social benefits.
“B-Line LRT is a transformational investment in Hamilton’s future that supports Canadian workers, steel, aluminum and manufacturing. Economic growth along the corridor is already underway and will accelerate with today’s announcement, benefiting taxpayers across Hamilton. B-Line LRT will be the backbone of Hamilton’s transit network and a catalyst for expanded HSR service and sustainable growth across the city.”
- John-Paul Danko
Member of Parliament for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada
“Today’s announcement is a major step forward for Hamilton’s LRT and the future of our city. I’m thrilled to see this momentum and excited about what it means for Hamilton as we build our future. This project will help reduce congestion, support new housing and investment along the corridor, and strengthen our downtown and commercial and residential neighborhoods along its entire length and beyond. Through strong partnership with the Province of Ontario, Metrolinx, and the Government of Canada, we are delivering the modern transit system Hamiltonians deserve for generations to come.”
- Mayor Andrea Horwath
City of Hamilton
“With this contract award, we are setting the stage for major construction on the Hamilton LRT – which is incredible news for the City of Hamilton. This contract includes new and upgraded bridges and the upgrading of roads, utilities, and public spaces. This project will transform how people travel across downtown Hamilton creating connections to HSR and GO Transit along the 14-kilometre route. I’m encouraged by the collaboration across all levels of government, building momentum for this project.”
- Michael Lindsay
President & CEO, Metrolinx
Industry and institutional stakeholders highlight long-term impact
Investment expected to boost competitiveness and regional mobility
Industry groups and local institutions have also voiced strong support, pointing to the LRT’s potential to enhance labour mobility, attract investment and improve access to key employment and education hubs.
“TRACCS Transit and Rail and its members applaud the Ontario government for awarding the Hamilton LRT Civil and Utilities contract, a significant step toward delivering reliable transit infrastructure for a growing city. This major investment is poised to transform regional travel, supporting economic growth and connecting riders to key destinations across Hamilton.”
- Mark Salsberg
Chairperson, TRACCS Transit and Rail
“The LRT will be transformative for our community. It will make it easier for students, faculty, staff and visitors to access our campus while connecting our community to jobs, innovation, and opportunity across the city. This investment strengthens Hamilton’s position as a dynamic, connected, and sustainable city, and we’re proud that McMaster will serve as one of its key hubs.”
- Susan Tighe
President & Vice Chancellor, McMaster University
“This is a major step forward for Hamilton and a clear signal that we are moving from planning to execution on a generational city-building investment. The LRT will strengthen our competitiveness by connecting people to jobs, businesses to customers, and unlocking growth along one of Hamilton’s most important corridors. It will be a powerful catalyst for investment, downtown revitalization, and long-term economic growth.”
- Greg Dunnett
President & CEO, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce
“OPTA would like to congratulate the Government of Ontario and the City of Hamilton for this milestone. The Hamilton Light Rail Transit project will be the key to connecting the people of Hamilton to jobs, education and opportunities across the region.”
- Karen Cameron
CEO, Ontario Public Transit Association
As early-stage construction work begins, the Hamilton LRT is emerging as a cornerstone infrastructure project aimed at reshaping mobility, supporting economic development and reinforcing the region’s role within Ontario’s expanding transit network.