Here's a sneak peek at the illuminated Hamilton sign as installation begins

Installation of the sign outside of city hall began Thursday

Image | Hamilton sign - pink

Caption: A preview of what the actual letters look like with wrapping still on them. (Andy Pitman)

On Thursday installation began on the "Hamilton" sign outside of city hall.
Workers began laying a base structure for the illuminated letters.
The sign will be unveiled at a special ceremony on April 27.
Once complete, the city will be able to change the colours of the letters for various holidays and events.

Image | Hamilton letter inside

Caption: A preview of the Hamilton letters as seen before it heads to city hall taken by Andy Pitman who works at Hamilton Scenic Specialty Incorporated. (Andy Pitman)

The sign was pitched as a Canada 150 project.
Twelve companies, groups and families each contributed $25,000 toward the $300,000 project, which include include prominent homebuilders, hospitality companies and a steelmaker.

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The sign is expected to be about 2.25 metres tall, two metres deep and 20 metres long.
Here's a first look at the structure.

Image | Fencing for sign construction

Caption: Fencing surrounds the site where the Hamilton sign is being assembled. Construction work started Thursday. (Laura Clementson/CBC)

Image | Brackets for Hamilton letters

Caption: The letters will be placed on brackets. (Laura Clementson/CBC)

Image | The base with city hall in background

Caption: The letters will be hollow so people can stand in them, and the city will have the ability to change the colours of the lights to reflect holidays or events. (Laura Clementson/CBC)

Image | Inside of sign base

Caption: Thursday was the first day for the construction of the sign. It was pitched as a Canada 150 project. (Laura Clementson/CBC)

Image | Level for base of sign

Caption: A level is used on the base that will hold the letters. (Laura Clementson/CBC)

Image | Long shot of sign base

Caption: The sign is expected to be about 2.25 metres tall, two metres deep and 20 metres long. (Laura Clementson/CBC)