The City of Hamilton will designate a portion of Arkell Street in Westdale as “Arkell’s Alley” to honour the award-winning Canadian band the Arkells’ roots. The Arkells were formed in 2004 while they were students at McMaster University. The band practiced in a house on Arkell Street between Newton Street and Paisley Avenue, eventually adopting their name from the location.
Ward 1 Councillor Maureen Wilson, who represents the area, moved the formal resolution on Monday (June 10) with unanimous support, saying the honour is about more than just their repeated Group of the Year awards at the Junos, more than just selling out the Hamilton Stadium, it is honouring their community contributions and character.
“They’ve told us about the importance of having a vision for the long run and to know our history — that we should look for champions in our leaders but also honest storytellers. And they’ve also told us the importance of sticking around to do the heavy lifting because it takes a village to make success,” Wilson stated.
“I appreciate the contribution that they have made for children, particularly in this city.”
Wilson cited the Arkells basketball court at Woodland Park in Ward 3.
“It gives me great pride to bring this forward and to recognize the talent that really gelled and came together at McMaster University, the greatest university on the planet in the greatest city on the planet in Ward One, which is pretty special.”
Ward 3 Councillor Nrinder Nann seconded the motion and sentiments.
“I think that we get an opportunity to celebrate and acknowledge and spread joy. And I feel like in many ways this motion does exactly that and it does it in a beautiful way.”
The signs will be ready for installation this summer.
Details of the unveiling have not been announced.
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Published: June 12, 2025
Last updated: June 12, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
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