Reconstruction of Hamilton's fire-damaged Woodlands Park public restroom to be completed by 2025 – Hamilton | Globalnews.ca

Some Hamilton city councillors were shocked to learn at a committee meeting that the multi-million dollar reconstruction of the burnt-out Woodlands Park public toilets would take more than a year.

Public Works staff acknowledged that the late 2025 forecast was based on a “worst-case scenario.”

However, they confirmed that visitors to the new splash pad, which opens Labor Day weekend, will likely have to accept using portable restrooms in lieu of permanent amenities.

“During the remainder of the season, when the spray pools are open, we can look at increasing the number of portable restrooms,” explained Cynthia Graham, director of environmental services.

Ward 3 councillor Nrinder Nann believes the 2025 reopening and lack of a spray pad is “unfortunate” as the venue aims to add more pathways, football pitches, multi-purpose courts and a playground.

“We’re now going to have lines for … portable toilets and they’re welcome to their splash pads,” Nann mused. “I’m going to work with the line staff to see if we can find a more dignified temporary solution between then and now.”

Committee Chairman and District 14 Councilman Mike Spadafora also seemed shocked by the reopening date and had to ask the question a second time to confirm it.

“I understand your pain, Councillor Nann,” he said after staff confirmed the expected reopening date.

The restroom, located on East Barton Street between Wentworth and Sanford, was hit by a fire on Jan. 2 that is believed to have started from the outside of the building, leaving the restroom severely damaged.

Firefighters initially estimated the damage at about $500,000.

There were no serious casualties in the fire.

Since the fire, mobile toilets have been on site to accommodate the ongoing Winter Restroom Pilot Program.

Temporary restrooms are usually open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The replacement cost of the permanent structure is estimated to be between $1.1 million and $1.3 million, with the city paying a $500,000 insurance deductible.