Is This The End Of The Science Centre?

I grew up in Flemingdon Park and Don Mills, and the sudden closure of the Ontario Science Centre due to structural issues is a devastating blow to the community. For generations, this iconic institution has inspired curiosity and fostered a love for science in countless visitors. Now, it’s shutting its doors abruptly, leaving us without a proper farewell. Hope this is temporary?

This closure echoes the fate of the Scarborough RT, another beloved piece of Ontario’s infrastructure that was left to deteriorate. It’s a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting our public spaces and institutions. Remember the Planetarium? The Science Centre’s roof issues raise alarming questions about the state of other cherished buildings in Ontario. How many more are silently crumbling due to deferred maintenance? Our schools, libraries, museums, and community centers could be facing similar fates.

Why We Must Demand Better – Preserve Our Buildings

As Ontarians, we must demand better from our leaders. Cutting costs on essential maintenance is a short-sighted approach that ultimately costs us more—not just in dollars, but in lost opportunities and memories. The abrupt possible cancellation of summer camps, which I hope are moved to another location, and educational programs at the Science Centre is just the tip of the iceberg.

It’s time we prioritize the preservation of our community assets. We need to invest in regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure these institutions continue to serve future generations. The Science Centre’s closure should serve as a wake-up call.

Let’s not allow more of our beloved institutions to fade away without recognition or proper farewells. We owe it to ourselves and future generations to protect and maintain the places that shape our communities and inspire our youth.

Crossing my fingers that this is temporary and we can save the Science Centre. I hope this is not part of Gentrification Part 3.