Fort Hamilton refurbishment progress on schedule
Phase one of redevelopment works at an historical attraction overlooking the capital are under way and remain on schedule for completion by September, the City of Hamilton said.
A City spokeswoman said archaeological investigations were being conducted at Fort Hamilton along with trenching.
She said the work set a benchmark for how archaeology can be integrated meaningfully into major infrastructure projects in the City.
Built in the 1870s, Fort Hamilton served to protect the harbour and form a line of defence for the navy to the west.
The stronghold, a rare example of a mid-Victorian polygonal fort, was never used in combat.
The redevelopment includes construction of a new high-voltage power vault to support general maintenance and operations, with capacity to serve events across multiple locations within the fort.
Installation of a 36,000-gallon water tank to enable sustainable irrigation and to provide a reliable water supply for operational need is also being undertaken.
Further works include the creation of a new covered public terrace, complete with ramp access.
Site-wide trenching is in progress at the fort to allow for upgraded power and water services and to support the introduction of new interpretive signage and directions, wi-fi connectivity and architectural and safety lighting.
The removal of invasive plant species, new planting initiatives and the recovery of previously obscured stonework in collaboration with the Bermuda National Trust are being carried out.
There are also repairs to existing historical stonework to preserve the integrity of the fort.
The spokeswoman said a public call for historical information in February yielded valuable insights that will help to shape future interpretive displays for visitors.
• The City still welcomes any additional historical photographs or personal accounts related to Fort Hamilton, with submissions to be sent to forthamilton@cityhall.bm