Demolition almost complete on the site of McMaster’s new student residence

December 19, 2022

The demolition of the empty buildings on the site of McMaster’s new student residence located on Main Street West between Forsyth and Dalewood is almost complete. Last week, only one building remained standing on the site.

McMaster University will name the new student residence after the late Lincoln Alexander, a McMaster graduate who was an advocate for education and an activist for racial equity in Canada. Once open, the 1,366-bed facility will be a part of the university’s residence community. Lincoln Alexander Hall will feature a fitness centre, a dining hall, quiet study spaces and communal kitchens on every floor.

A partially demolished house sitting in a construction site.
Demolition is almost complete at the site of McMaster’s new student residence, Lincoln Alexander Hall. (Photo by Georgia Kirkos/McMaster University).

A contracted professional demolition company started demolishing the homes when permits were received from the City of Hamilton in October 2022. This work included protecting the site boundaries, careful removal of materials from inside the homes, followed by demolition of the buildings on the site.

Once the site is cleared, and necessary permits and approvals are in place, further construction will begin. Construction updates can be found on the project webpage.

A large piece of heavy machinery beside a partially demolished home.
Active demolition began in October with careful removal of materials from inside the homes, and complete demolition of the structures on the site. (Photo by Georgia Kirkos/McMaster University).

A video update on the construction of the 10 Bay Graduate Residence and other construction projects on campus is available on McMaster’s Daily News website.  

A construction zone with large metal disposal bins, heavy machinery and a house with boarded up windows.
McMaster is working closely with demolition partners to ensure minimal disruptions to the neighbourhood and to prioritize safety near the site. (Photo by Georgia Kirkos/McMaster University).

As McMaster’s 15th residence building, Lincoln Alexander Hall will primarily house first-year undergraduate students. However, the building may also be able to serve additional undergraduate and graduate students. Based on current enrolment trends, the additional beds within Lincoln Alexander Hall should allow McMaster to offer a first-year residence guarantee.