Hamilton council examines ads on highways

Unlike some of Ontario's other major thoroughfares, the Lincoln Alexander and Red Hill Valley parkways are fairly ad free. But Hamilton city council is looking at changing that.

Council passed a resolution Wednesday night for staff to bring back a report exploring advertising on the highways "in order to maximize revenues."

Coun. Tom Jackson said he foresees it being similar to the Gardiner Expressway in Toronto.

"We see all that...advertising that has provided wonderful revenue to the city of Toronto," he said. "I think this time has come."

Council also examined this issue about 10 years ago, said Coun. Sam Merulla, who moved the motion.

Given that, Coun. Terry Whitehead said the report should come back fairly quickly.

"Most of the homework was done, and I would hope this would come back sooner rather than later," he said.

Here's a look at what it's like to drive the Red Hill Valley Parkway filmed by Streets Of Ontario. Now, imagine this view but with advertising.