Ontario breaks ground on new Science Centre at Ontario Place

The new 400,000-square foot Ontario Science Centre has officially broken ground and is on track to open in 2029 and will feature a state-of-the-art mainland building, an integrated pod complex, new interactive exhibits, an upgraded Cinesphere and more programming space than at the previous site.

The $1-billion project is a major part of the Government of Ontario’s plan to transform the revitalized Ontario Place into a vibrant, year-round destination for science, entertainment and tourism.

“With new and exciting programs, more space and incredible views of Toronto’s waterfront, the new Ontario Science Centre will inspire the next generation of children and families as visitors make memories that will last a lifetime,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Our government is proud to get shovels in the ground on the new Science Centre, as part of the revitalized Ontario Place, as we build a historic landmark on Toronto’s skyline that will attract millions of visitors a year.”

In February, Infrastructure Ontario (IO) and Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming (MTCG) awarded a fixed price contract of $1.04 billion to Ontario Science Partners to design, build, finance and maintain the new facility.

The Ontario Science Partners team includes:

• Applicant Leads: John Laing Limited, Sacyr Infrastructure Canada Inc. and Amico Major Projects Inc.
• Design Team: Hariri Pontarini Architects & Snøhetta
• Construction Team: Sacyr Canada Inc, and Amico Design Build Inc.
• Facilities Management: Johnson Controls Canada L.P.
• Financial Advisor: Agentis Capital Advisors

The new facility will include:

A state-of-the-art mainland building designed for dynamic programming, exhibitions and immersive visitor experiences, including hands-on exhibits, learning activities and educational workshops

Renovated and enhanced pods, fully modernized to create new science-themed experiences

The iconic Cinesphere, upgraded with acoustic enhancements to its world-class IMAX theatre and complete interior and exterior revitalization. It will offer approximately double the seating of the former OMNIMAX Theatre.

“Today represents an exciting step forward for the new Ontario Science Centre, where we will continue to inspire a sense of wonder and discovery for generations to come,” said Paul Kortenaar, CEO of the Ontario Science Centre. “We can’t wait to welcome families, teachers and students, and visitors from around the world for incredible science learning experiences.”

In January, Infrastructure Ontario and the Ministry of Tourism, Gaming and Culture (MTCG) issued a pair of Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Ontario Place Redevelopment project. Five teams were invited to respond for construction management services for the development of the public realm as part of the Ontario Place Redevelopment. T

Featured image: (Government of Ontario)