Hamilton Council Reviews Road Classification and Right-of-Way Study

Hamilton council reviewed the Road Classification and Right-of-Way Review Study, a multi-year planning process that will guide future street classifications, right-of-way standards, and street design. Staff said the study is meant to align roads with their actual function, surrounding land use, and transportation needs, while supporting Complete Streets principles and future public consultation.

ROAD CLASSIFICATION REVIEW

Staff outlined the city's functional road classification system, which includes arterial, collector, and local roads. Examples referenced during the presentation included Jack Boulevard as a major arterial, Cannon Street West as a minor arterial, Hurricane Road as an urban collector, Nebo Road as a rural arterial, and Park Street as a local road. Staff said the review is intended to make sure classifications reflect how roads actually function and the areas they serve.

RIGHT-OF-WAY STANDARDS

Staff said the study is also reviewing right-of-way widths across the city. Planner Titon Obanjo said, "The purpose of this study, we really want to seek your feedback, public's feedback on the updated route classification and right way rates across the study." Staff explained that rights-of-way include public land used for roads, sidewalks, boulevards, and utilities, and are also used for stormwater management, greenspace, and other community amenities.

COMPLETE STREETS

Staff tied the review to Hamilton's Complete Streets approach. Demetri told council, "Complete streets are streets for everyone designed for all ages, abilities, and incomes." Staff said the road classification and right-of-way review will help the city apply that framework when planning future street designs.

STREET TYPOLOGIES

The discussion referenced eight complete street typologies used by the city: urban avenues, transitioning avenues, main streets, connectors, neighborhood streets, industrial streets, rural roads, and rural settlement roads. Staff said these typologies are intended to avoid a single design standard for every street. B Street was cited as an example of a road where design could vary depending on surrounding context even if the classification stays the same.

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND TIMELINE

Staff said public feedback is now being collected on proposed road reclassifications and right-of-way changes. Obanjo said the study team is seeking "public's feedback" on the proposed updates. According to the timeline presented, a technical report is expected in summer 2025, a draft official plan amendment in summer 2026, a second round of public engagement in fall 2026, and final recommendations with an official plan amendment in 2027. Residents were directed to submit comments through the project webpage or by email.

Motions

No motions were specified in the materials provided.

Attendees

No councillors present were identified in the materials provided.