John Benjamin | Sept. 24, 2023

On September 12, the City’s West Harbour Redevelopment team hosted an open house to gather information and feedback regarding the future use of the Discovery Center on Pier 8. Leading the meeting were City officials Chris Phillips and Andrea Smith, who have become familiar faces in keeping the community informed about West Harbour developments. Also in attendance was an Indigenous community coordinator, archivists from the Hamilton Public Library, and HPL’s CEO, Paul Takala.

Originally completed in 2004, the Center was once a federally owned marine museum and a restaurant before the City acquired the property. It remains an architectural treasure, with its low-profile design spilling gracefully over the lake. Its thoughtful architecture makes wonderful use of natural stone cladding, metal roofs, and marine-tolerant Ekki wood siding. It is sustainably heated by geothermal pumps and features energy-efficient glazed windows.

The site is situated at the west corner of Copps Pier, nestled between the bay and future Pier 8 developments. This prime asset is in dire need of repurposing. Mr. Takala presented a promising preliminary vision for the Center, which involves sustainable funding and a focus on the public. HPL would host various spaces, including a library, an Indigenous gathering space, rotating exhibits and galleries, a café that could employ local youth, and other amenities.

While still in the early stages of development, this vision suggests that the Center will evolve into a public space – a ‘third place’ for residents to enjoy, engage with one another, and hear, share, and tell the most significant stories about Hamilton and its Indigenous communities. The project is currently awaiting City Council’s approval later this autumn before proceeding to the next phase, which involves finalizing and implementing this visionary plan.