TORONTO - Ontario Premier Doug Ford has cited a huge drop in attendance and “run down” infrastructure at the Ontario Science Centre as part of his jus...
TORONTO - Ontario Premier Doug Ford has cited a huge drop in attendance and “run down” infrastructure at the Ontario Science Centre as part of his justification for moving the attraction from east Toronto to a redeveloped Ontario Place, but certain documents present a fuller picture.
Ford has been citing a desire to modernize the facility and attract more people as reasons for the move, suggesting the centre is aging and fading from popularity. Coming out of most of the pandemic lockdowns, on-site attendance for 2021-22 was 255,347 – well exceeding the centre’s target of 142,078 for that year, according to its annual report for that year, the most recent one available.
“There are many explanations for the decline — changing demographics, impact of technology, uncertain economic climate, busy lives, and increased competition — but there are no quick or easy solutions.” The science centre’s 2017-18 business plan says 10-year deferred maintenance needs are $147.5 million, and that upgrades and asbestos mitigation are required.
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