1883-08-08uu

During August 1883, the Hamilton Spectator had been examining the state of Hamilton’s sidewalks and roadways and the report was not totally favorable.

It was noted that while the Board of Works was doing reasonably good work in laying new sidewalks in various parts of the city, but much more attention should be paid to the old and broken down sidewalks which, at a minimum be temporarily repaired, until replaced.

Another cause for complaint was the abysmal condition of the city streets, most of which were desperately in need repair:

“Apart from the dangerous condition of the streets, many complaints are made because of the discomfiture occasioned to passengers crossing city streets in wet weather. This is owing to the uneven state of the roads which allows the water to remain in pools upon the crossings, which, in many cases and in very busy localities are several inches below the level of the road:¹

¹ ““Hamilton’s Streets : The Bad Condition of Its Sidewalk and Highways”

Hamilton Spectator.  August  03, 1883.

The Spectator report on poor sidewalks and roadways concluded in Hamilton concluded as follows:

“There are many streets in Hamilton that are beautifully situated and are adorned with beautiful residences; but there is the same marked absence of anything to beautify the public highway.

“The owners of properties on these streets signify their willingness to erect boulevards opposite their residences, but as this involves considerable expense, they do not feel inclined to construct them while a large number of cows which infest certain neighborhoods are permitted to run at large.”¹