Open letter to Premier Ford regarding relocating of Ontario Science Centre

BY PAUL JUNOR

The Ontario Science Centre(OSC)  has been one of the most exciting interactive science museum in the world ever since it was built in 1969. As a crown-owned corporation, they believe that science, technology and innovation will help them shape a better future for society and our planet. The mission of OSC is to inspire passion for the human adventure of discovery, and their vision is through science and technology, they can create a more curious, creative and resilient world.

Many Torontonians are familiar with the work and status of the OSC.

On Monday, April 17^th, 2023 the Ford government made a surprise announcement that it was thinking of relocating the Science Centre to Ontario Place. This announcement was preceded by a statement from Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure that it is “Falling apart,” and  “deteriorating.”  

This appears to be the basis for the plans to convert this favourite tourist destination to a housing complex.

Minister Kinga Surma revealed that the site while a “public treasure,” has much renovations required, and is need of a overhaul.

She states further, “Which is why our government for the last number of years has been looking at whether or not the option of relocation to preserve the science centre should take place.”

Marit Stiles, Leader of the official NDP asserts the provincial government plans lack accountability and transparency. She states, “The premier is making back of the napkin musing about moving the Ontario Science Centre.It sure seems like they’re making it up as they go along.”

Former Councillor and Mayoral candidate, Josh Matlow penned a letter to Premier Ford on April 13^th, titled,”Protecting the Science Centre to support Thorncliffe, Flemingdon Park and Don Mills Area.The letter opens,” Community members have shared with me serious concern about this plan.The Science Centre delivers programs to young people in these underserved neighbourhoods, and is an important part of a burgeoning cultural district that industry the Aga Khan Museum.”

The letter lists four specific programs and things that the Science Centre relates to:

The Youth-for Youth(Y4Y) Innovation Program
This program is geared to Grades 7 and 8 students and it gives them exposure to professionals and apprentices who are involved in STEM fields and skilled trades.

The Science Centre School
This unique school has a tailored made curriculum for highly academic Grade 12  students who are selected through a competitive academic process Students study Math classes as well as  Grade 12 Chemistry,Biology and Physics.

The Community Access Program
This program enables groups that are marginalized and underserved groups, such as Indigenous People and newcomers children to Canada access to the Science Centre.

The Eglinton Crosstown’s “Science Centre” Station
This unique program offers free and reduced loss to those who have generally be shut out of accessibility and engagement in city run facilities.

The letter concludes,”We understand and support the need for housing and other community amenities, such as dayare on this site, and strongly encouraged the planned redevelopment of the parking lots. But that work does not preclude the importance of retaining the Science Centre in this area of the city and the potential to make it a more vibrant attraction as its current home.”

A petition was initiated by Mustafa Khan at Change.org, titled, “Don’t Move the Ontario Science Centre to Ontario Place “ urging the government to reconsider their decision. The petition identifies three reasons why this transition is a bad move. It notes,” Moving the Science Centre to Ontario Place is terrible and a waste of money.”