Toronto 
The Ontario government has awarded a $1.04 billion contract to build and maintain a new Ontario Science Centre at Ontario Place, marking a significant step in its broader waterfront redevelopment plan.
Science Centre Renderings/Credit: Govt. of Ontario
The contract was awarded to Ontario Science Partners, a team that includes Hariri Pontarini Architects. Infrastructure Ontario and the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Gaming selected the consortium through a competitive procurement process.
Science Centre Renderings/Credit: Govt. of Ontario
The 400,000-square-foot facility is expected to open as early as 2029. It will feature a new mainland building, modernized pods and an upgraded Cinesphere. According to the province, the redesigned centre will dedicate more space to programming than the previous location and include interactive exhibits, hands-on learning activities and educational workshops.
Premier Doug Ford said the project will continue the Science Centre’s five-decade legacy while becoming a landmark on Toronto’s waterfront. The province estimates construction and tourism activity tied to the project will create more than 1,000 jobs.
The Cinesphere will undergo a full interior and exterior revitalization, along with acoustic upgrades to its IMAX theatre. Seating capacity will double compared to the former OMNIMAX Theatre. The venue is also intended to support Ontario’s film and television sector through technical and accessibility improvements.
Tourism, Culture and Gaming Minister Stan Cho described the project as a long-term investment in public infrastructure. Paul Kortenaar, CEO of the Ontario Science Centre, said the new space will focus on inclusive and engaging science programming.
The broader Ontario Place redevelopment includes more than 50 acres of public trails, green space, beaches, playgrounds, a redesigned RBC Amphitheatre, an upgraded marina and improved transit access via the Ontario Line at Exhibition Station.
The redevelopment of Ontario Place is projected to create more than 5,700 jobs and contribute $420 million to Ontario’s GDP during construction, with the site expected to attract up to six million visitors annually once finished.
Until the new building opens, the Science Centre will operate from Harbourfront Centre. The province says the rebuilt Ontario Place will remain publicly owned, open year-round and developed without casinos or condominiums.
