Ontario to build new Emergency Preparedness and Response HQ

The Government of Ontario has awarded the contract for the functional programming of a new, state-of-the-art Emergency Preparedness and Response Headquarters, which will also serve as the future home of Ontario Corps.

At the functional programming stage of planning, prior to the actual design of the facility, its specific functions, activities and operational requirements are determined. Strategically located on 17 acres near Toronto Pearson Airport and major 400 series highways, this facility will be equipped with cutting-edge technology needed to protect Ontario as the 24/7, year-round emergency command centre.

WZMH Architects is being awarded the systems and capabilities functional programming contract, with work to be completed in 2026.

“This new command centre will help us protect communities across Ontario with faster, more coordinated responses whenever emergencies happen, ensuring help gets to the people who need it most,” said Premier Doug Ford. “With a modern home for Ontario Corps, we’re making sure these volunteers and everyday heroes have the tools they need to carry out their critical operations and keep people safe.”

In 2025, Ontario Corps volunteers contributed more than 6,000 hours delivering emergency relief, including supporting wildfire evacuations, erecting flood barriers, delivering wellness checks and providing meals in communities across the province. Likewise, Ontario’s Emergency Preparedness and Response teams led through one of the busiest and most demanding emergency flood and wildfire seasons on record in 2025.

To support this build, the government has been consulting with stakeholders and industry experts to inform the design and construction of the new headquarters. This new headquarters and emergency command centre will be purpose-built to withstand all hazards, with state-of-the-art facilities to bring faster, smarter and more coordinated support to communities across the province.

“We’re taking bold steps to build and renew our infrastructure and grow our economy, and that’s why Ontario needs a strong emergency management system to stay protected, resilient and ready,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. “That means investing in a modern headquarters designed for future challenges and enabling more effective, coordinated and enhanced emergency response.”

Featured image: (Government of Ontario)