Exciting News! Ontario Science Centre Set to Launch Satellite Locations Amid Controversial Shutdown

In an unexpected turn of events, the Ontario Science Centre is gearing up to unveil two temporary satellite locations across Toronto, providing science enthusiasts with access to some of its captivating interactive exhibits while a full interim space remains at least a year away. CTV News has exclusively learned that these new locations will be established in the bustling Sherway Gardens in Etobicoke and the vibrant Harbourfront Centre on Queens Quay West.

While these satellite exhibits are a welcome reprieve, they will only comprise a fraction—less than a quarter—of the original exhibition space that the Science Centre boasted at its Don Mills Road location, which dramatically shuttered its doors in June. Advocates like Floyd Ruskin from the Save Ontario Science Centre group express hope that this initiative could spark interest in science, but they are adamant that a fully funded, larger institution is essential for the community.

The sudden closure followed claims from the provincial government that an engineering report indicated a hazardous risk of roof collapse. Yet, scrutiny of that report revealed alternative options to closure, and city inspectors found no significant issues. Moreover, shocking revelations surfaced when the venue continued to host events, including a wedding, shortly after its supposed shutdown for safety reasons.

As for the exhibits themselves, some—including the vibrant “Circus!” and innovative “Towers of Tomorrow”—are set to find a temporary home in a 25,000-square-foot space at Sherway Gardens, scheduled to open from November through March. Meanwhile, the “KidSpark” exhibit will take up residence at the Harbourfront Centre from December to May in a 12,000-square-foot area.

Provincial officials are actively searching for a formal interim location, anticipated to be ready by 2026, while the ultimate future of the Ontario Science Centre lies at Toronto’s waterfront at Ontario Place. Construction has already commenced there, with hundreds of trees recently cleared for the upcoming development.

Amid these developments, the provincial government also publicly released details regarding a controversial contract with Austrian company Therme, which is responsible for renovations at Ontario Place. The financial implications are staggering, with an anticipated rent starting at $1.95 million in 2032 and a whopping total of $1.1 billion over the specified 95-year term, escalating further with inflation, which raises questions about resource allocation.

Experts like Prof. Wayne Smith have drawn parallels between these generous provisions and incentives cities offer to professional sports teams, suggesting a potential misallocation of public funds.

In a departure from despair, the temporary locations at the Science Centre offer a lifeline to several workers whose contracts were about to expire at the end of October. Their employment has now been extended to February, allowing them to transition into this new phase.

Despite the excitement for the satellite exhibits, communication from the key players involved in these initiatives has been notably sparse. Cadillac Fairview, managing Sherway Gardens, has cautiously stated they are exploring collaborative opportunities without any commitments at this time.

In a recent correspondence caught on social media, a supporter reached out to Premier Doug Ford advocating for the immediate restoration of the full Ontario Science Centre. His response? "Be happy you are getting a new one," illuminating the ongoing tension between the community's expectations and government assurances.

As this story unfolds, one thing is for sure: the future of the Ontario Science Centre remains a hot topic, and many are left wondering just how this situation will evolve in the coming months. Stay tuned, as we continue to bring you the latest updates on this intriguing saga!