A new lookout tower is in the works for Valens Conservation Area.
The two-platform structure will have an accessible observation deck and a second deck above, which will be reached by a staircase.
Matt Hall, director of capital projects for Hamilton Conservation Authority, said the new tower is a much-needed upgrade.
“The original platform was built in the '70s and we had maintained it since that time, but it had gotten to a point where it needed a full replacement,” he said.
The old tower, which was made entirely of wood, has been demolished and construction on the new tower has started in the same spot. It will be made out of a mixture of steel and wood will offer more space for visitors to look at Valens Lake.
The new tower was designed to look like a seashell, Hall said.
“The idea of being kind of being in the middle of nature out there in the Valens area, hopefully the shape will reflect that as well to some degree,” he said.
Construction began in November and is expected to finish by the spring.
Part of the trail near the lookout tower at Valens Conservation Area will be closed while construction is ongoing.
