The story behind it:

Hamilton's big ideas
Hamilton Spectator File Photo

Some city councillors hope a giant fountain in the harbour can offset the smokestacks of the waterfront.

A feature in the harbour, such as this jet fountain in the city of Geneva, Switzerland, has been floated.
Hamilton Spectator File Photo

Councillors gathered at Liuna Station yesterday to brainstorm the best ways to strategically spend capital dollars to improve the city. Here's a look at their priorities and a selection of projects to help the city meet its goal.
The Hamilton Spectator
(Mar 6, 2007)

1. Waterfront redevelopment

* construction of a pedestrian bridge over the QEW at the Red Hill Valley Parkway

* development of CN rail yard

* complete waterfront trails

* create a water feature in the harbour

2. Downtown redevelopment

* renovate the Farmers' Market

* improve Gore Park, remove buses from south leg of King Street to make pedestrian area

* enhance downtown development initiative programs

3. Brownfield and strategic infrastructure redevelopment

* buy and renovate a prominent or architecturally significant building in the core

* redevelop city-owned brownfield

4. Image

* create city gateways

* strategically placed beautification efforts, such as flower medians

* graffiti prevention and strict enforcement of property standards

5. Economic development initiatives

* service industrial lands along new Highway 6 by the airport

* service industrial park in Glanbrook

* create wireless network across the city

6. Housing

* encourage student housing in the core

* meet housing targets

7. Combatting poverty

* enhance Poverty Roundtable goal to make Hamilton the best place to raise a child

* return city's portion of National Child Benefit clawback to families

8. Immigration

* explore creation of an employment office to help new immigrants start businesses.