Three teams invited to rethink Ontario Science Centre
The old centre was closed in 2024 due to safety concerns and the high cost of repairs.
Infrastructure Ontario has invited three teams to respond to a request for proposals (RFP) to design, build, finance and maintain the new Ontario Science Centre project.
These teams were selected from the Request for Qualifications stage that was posted publicly in May 2024 and closed in August 2024. A rigorous evaluation process, including criteria such as design and construction capability, experience, qualified personnel and financial capacity to deliver a project of this size and scope was undertaken to pre-qualify the following teams to be invited to bid on the RFP:
DiscoverON Partners:
- Applicant Leads: Fengate Capital Management Ltd and Pomerleau Capital Inc.
- Design Team: Cumulus Architects Inc and Daoust Lestage Lizotte Stecker
- Construction Team: Pomerleau Inc.
- Facilities Management: Honeywell Limited
- Financial Advisor: National Bank Financial, Inc.
EllisDon Infrastructure:
- Applicant Lead: EllisDon Capital Inc.
- Design Team: Belvedere Architecture and BDP Quadrangle Architects Limited
- Construction Team: EllisDon Corporation
- Facilities Management: EllisDon Facilities Services Inc
- Financial Advisor: EllisDon Capital Inc.
Ontario Science Partners:
- Applicant Leads: John Laing Limited, Sacyr Infrastructure Canada Inc, and Amico Major Projects Inc.
- Design Team: Hariri Inc & D. Pontarini Inc, Snohetta Architecture, Landscape Architecture P.C.
- Construction Team: Sacyr Canada Inc, and Amico Design Build Inc.
- Facilities Management: Johnson Controls Canada L.P
- Financial Advisor: N/A
The old Ontario Science Centre, a landmark institution in Toronto since its opening in 1969, has been permanently closed and is slated for demolition due to significant structural and financial challenges. Originally designed by architect Raymond Moriyama as part of Canada’s Centennial celebrations, the centre was renowned for its Brutalist architecture and pioneering hands-on science exhibits. However, officials say mounting infrastructure issues have rendered the building unsustainable. A 2024 engineering report revealed critical risks, including roof panels in distressed conditions, a failing heating system, and deferred maintenance costs estimated at $369 million over the next 20 years.
The provincial government announced the closure in June 2024, citing safety concerns and the high cost of repairs. Officials argued that relocating to a new facility at Ontario Place would save over $250 million compared to maintaining the original site. Critics, however, have challenged these claims, arguing that preserving the existing structure would be more cost-effective and environmentally responsible. The decision has sparked public outcry, with over 90,000 signatures opposing the demolition and concerns raised about losing an iconic piece of cultural heritage.
Additionally, the move has been criticized for its impact on accessibility. The current site in Flemingdon Park served as a vital educational resource for diverse communities and school groups across Ontario. Relocating downtown may limit access for many of these groups while reducing the facility’s size by half. Despite these controversies, demolition plans are moving forward as part of broader redevelopment efforts for the site.
