Ashley Larose, Chief Executive Officer, Science North announcing funding for northwestern Ontario science centre - (CJ Goater/Acadia Broadcasting)
A science centre is one step closer to being established in northwestern Ontario.
Science North has received a $20 million investment from the federal government to support the development of the project.
“There’s still work ahead of us to secure the remaining funding, today’s announcement puts us firmly on the right track,” said Science North CEO Ashley Larose. “Let me be clear though, that this is not just about a new science centre in Thunder Bay, this is a transformational project for this region.”
The funding is coming through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.
The building is being designed to the Canadian Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Standard.
The centre will also use green energy, including a heating and cooling system that uses geothermal power from Lake Superior.
“We’re looking at a mass timber construction, photovoltaic systems, a closed lake loop, geothermal strategy, harnessing the power of the gorgeous Lake Superior and other cutting-edge innovations that will enhance energy security and eliminate completely on-site combustion,” added Larose. “Simply put, this centre won’t just respect the environment, it will actively contribute to a more sustainable future.”
The facility will offer cultural, recreational, and science-based experiences developed through extensive consultation with Indigenous communities, leaders, and advisors.
‘We’re ensuring that youth have hands-on stem learning through school programs, camps and volunteer opportunities,” explained Larose. “Indigenous communities will see their knowledge, their culture, their traditions woven into the design and the visitor experience. French-speaking audiences will engage with bilingual programming, (and) low-income families can access science experiences through programs like our existing Science for All Fund.
The plans for the project will also focus on ensuring an inclusive design ensuring accessibility meets the highest possible standards.
Science North does not have a dollar figure on how much more money is needed to get shovels in the ground but they plan on releasing that information in the near future.
The goal is to have construction underway by the spring of 2027.
