Hamilton’s pink tunnel used to be filled with messages and drawings from “Heated Rivalry” fans who visited the location after it was featured on the hit Crave Original series. However, all of those messages, some of which featured popular quotes from the show, are gone. The City of Hamilton painted over the pink-walled tunnel at Shamrock Park this week due to “inappropriate graffiti.” “After investigating, parks staff found highly visible and large, vulgar graffiti covering portions of the tunnel. Given the extent of the markings, a full repaint was determined to be the most appropriate way to restore the space and ensure it remains welcoming for all park users,” a city spokesperson said in a statement to CP24 on Thursday. In the show, the tunnel was located in Russia and featured in a dramatic scene in the fifth episode. It is actually located in Hamilton’s Corktown neighbourhood and runs beneath a CP Rail track. The tunnel has since become one of the many “Heated Rivalry” landmarks in Hamilton that fans visit. Even Rachel Reid, the author of the book in which the show is based, dropped by the tunnel last month and wrote a message on the wall. “The city recognizes that the pink tunnel has become a meaningful landmark for many residents and visitors,” the statement read, noting that the tunnel was created as an anti-bullying initiative and “designed as a place for positive community expression and messages of kindness.” “The city appreciates the strong connection residents have developed with this unique feature and remains committed to maintaining it as an inclusive and welcoming place for everyone to enjoy.” When CTV News visited the tunnel on Thursday, some fans were seen writing messages on the newly painted pink wall. “I will never stop reheating my rivalry,” one read. Another one is a quote from the show, “Yes, it’s scary but you’re brave!” Crave, CTV News and CP24 are owned by Bell Media, which is a subsidiary of BCE Inc.
