Toronto/CMEDIA: The final design of the new Ontario Science Centre at Toronto’s Waterfront has reportedly been unveiled by the Ontario government.
“We’re thrilled and honoured that the Ontario Science Centre will continue to call Harbourfront Centre home…a privilege to have on campus for our entire organization to both the Ontario Science Centre and Harbourfront Centre.” Tenio Evangelista, Chair, Board of Directors, Harbourfront Centre said.
“Our government is ready to deliver a modern, world class Ontario Science Centre.. investing in renewed spaces for learning, innovation and community, while supporting well-paying jobs and building the vibrant, future focused province Ontarians deserve,” Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure said.
Ontario has awarded the contract to build and maintain the new Ontario Science Centre and to transform Ontario Place into a year-round, world-class, family-friendly destination.
Included in the new 400,000-square-foot facility will be a state-of-the-art building with more space dedicated to programming and integrated pod complex, new interactive exhibits and an improved and upgraded Cinesphere.
“Today’s milestone reflects a shared commitment to build a dynamic, state-of-the-art Science Centre that will inspire discovery for generations to come…will provide meaningful learning experiences to visitors of all ages,” – John Carmichael, Chair, Board of Trustees, Ontario Science Centre said.
Being a cornerstone of the revitalized Ontario Place, the Science Centre, once completed as early as 2029, will provide new experiences for families, creating more than 1,000 jobs in the construction and tourism sectors, and boosting economic growth across Toronto and the region
“With state-of-the-art facilities…inspiring the next generation of young people…part of the revitalized Ontario Place, the Science Centre will be a historic landmark on Toronto’s waterfront and skyline, attracting millions of visitors a year.” said Premier Doug Ford.
Being a part revitalization of Ontario Place, the new Cinesphere will help aim to promote Ontario’s film and television industry, ensuring the Cinesphere’s coordination with the Ontario Science Centre on programming and supporting festivals, events and film-related programming for decades to come.
“We are proud to present the future home of the Ontario Science Centre…give Ontario families access to world-class science programming…protecting Ontario’s long-term economic interests and ensuring public infrastructure delivers real benefits for Ontarians” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming.
The new Ontario Science Centre will transform Ontario Place into a vibrant, year-round waterfront destination featuring over 50 acres of free public trails, expanded green space, playgrounds, interactive fountains, new beaches and the redesigned RBC Amphitheatre as well as a dynamic new venue for music fans and artists.
“The Ontario Science Centre…Our future home will bring science to life in an inclusive and playful way, where visitors, including teachers and students, can experience the wonder of science.” said Paul Kortenaar, CEO of the Ontario Science Centre. “
The new Science Centre will be easily accessible to the families through the new Ontario Line at Exhibition Station, which will also connect to fast, convenient GO service across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, steps away from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport.
Besides supporting an accessible, world-class waterfront destination at Ontario Place, these transportation links will create more than 5,700 jobs and add $420 million to Ontario’s GDP during construction.
“Ontario built the world’s first IMAX theatre in 1971, and the Cinesphere has been iconic ever since. We’ve been proud to share many events with TIFF audiences there…historic screening of the Ontario-made IMAX classic, North of Superior. We can’t wait to see audiences flocking back to this unique cultural treasure,” Cameron Bailey. CEO, Toronto International Film Festival said.
Ontario is working on a Destination Waterfront Strategy — a plan that will shape a vibrant, connected waterfront for generations to come that brings more tourists to Toronto.
“Once complete, the new Ontario Science Centre…provide teachers with the tools they need to bring learning to life and give families a space to engage with science together, helping students explore new ideas and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow,” Paul Calandra, Minister of Education said.
