From Rain Ready to Action: Highlights from Rain Ready Hamilton's Fall Showcase

EVENT HIGHLIGHT

The event kicked off with Green Ventures Director, Giuliana introducing the host, followed by Liz from the City of Hamilton presenting the Sustainable Infrastructure Program and its connection to Rain Ready. Liz explained how ICI property owners can reduce their stormwater fees through the Stormwater Infrastructure Credit. Industrial, commercial, institutional, mixed-use, and multi-residential buildings that implement stormwater management measures like rain gardens, permeable surfaces, or other LID features can receive up to 50% off their stormwater fees. This program highlights how sustainable landscaping not only benefits the environment but also provides tangible financial incentives for property owners. Attendees got an inside look at the strategies, tools, and support available to implement rain gardens, permeable pavements, and rainwater harvesting systems on their own properties. To learn more about the credits offered for ICI's, check out the City of Hamilton's page here. 

The showcase transitioned into an inspiring evening of presentations, discussions, and networking. Alexia, the Rain Ready Hamilton Program Lead shared the 2025 program outcomes, success metrics, and participant stories through engaging slides and videos, highlighting how Rain Ready initiatives improved flood resilience, biodiversity, and climate preparedness across the city. The atmosphere was full of anticipation as participants prepared to hear the success stories of their neighbors, learn from experts, and explore the tangible benefits of green infrastructure.

2025 Rain Ready Program Highlights

At the Fall Showcase, Alexia shared the 2025 achievements of the Rain Ready Hamilton program through an engaging presentation, complete with infographics and visuals. The audience learned about 73 completed projects across the city, including 54 rain gardens, 15 permeable driveways, 2 green roofs, and 4 acres of wetland restoration. The program also supported the planting of 1,211 native trees and 2,366 native plants, helping to enhance biodiversity and create more resilient green spaces.

Through these efforts, nearly 900,000 litres of stormwater were diverted from the municipal sewers, reducing flooding risk and improving water quality. Community involvement remained strong, with 810 residents attending in-person events and 65,596 social media engagements, reflecting the growing interest and support for sustainable landscaping. The total investment in these initiatives reached $589,196, funded by a combination of city rebates and private contributions.

This presentation highlighted not only the environmental impact of these projects but also the active role residents and stakeholders play in creating a greener, more resilient Hamilton.

After the presentations, attendees connected with landscape professionals, contractors, and program staff during the Q&A and networking session, all while a compilation video played in the background showcasing the season’s projects. The event was a celebration of collaboration, learning, and taking meaningful steps to make Hamilton greener and more resilient demonstrating that every rain-ready project contributes to a stronger, healthier community.

Seeing the Difference: Before & After LID Installation

To truly understand the impact of Low Impact Development (LID) features, it helps to see them in action. Before installation, many properties experience stormwater runoff, poor drainage, and limited green space. After installing rain gardens, permeable pavements, and rainwater harvesting systems, these same properties are now flood resilient, their stormwater is managed on-site, and their landscape is now both functional and aesthetically appealing.

Community Voices: Experiences from 2025 Rain Ready Projects

Our Rain Ready participants shared their experiences and insights from implementing Low Impact Development features on their properties. From learning how to manage stormwater effectively to seeing tangible improvements in their gardens and outdoor spaces.   

The Fall Showcase made one thing clear: when homeowners, contractors, and city partners show up together, real change happens. Hearing this year’s success stories, seeing the energy in the room, and watching residents connect with professionals reinforced just how far the Rain Ready Hamilton Rebate Program has come in 2025. These projects aren’t just installations - they’re long-term investments in flood resilience, cleaner waterways, and a greener Hamilton. Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Fall Showcase. We look forward to continuing this work with even more Hamilton residents in 2026.