Ontarians are reacting to the longtime ‘Ontario Place’ sign being torn down amidst construction to redevelop the area.
The sign was once viewed and admired by many who drove along Toronto’s Lake Shore Blvd. W. either to visit the destination or simply pass by, however, incoming plans to turn the site into a mega spa has ripped the sign and most of its defining features away.
Aerial photos posted to social media show what used to be a green Ontario Place now a busy construction site filled with dirt, with the vertical sign laying chopped in half next to the site.
The photos are leaving Ontarians feeling emotional as the site’s new reality continues to sink in.
“Incredibly sad to look at that swath of brown dirt where an interesting forest, trails and beach used to be,” a Reddit user said.
“I nearly want to cry every time we drive past,” another Reddit user said.
“I hate everything about this,” another user said.
Some users went on to criticize the incoming spa that is set to be developed by Therme Group, a group that may have made false claims to secure its 95-year lease with the province, according to a recent New York Times investigation.
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As part of its investigation, the Times found that Therme allegedly exaggerated its claim as being an industry leader running several spas, when in reality it only runs one.
Community members, activists, and senior politicians have been urgently calling on the provincial government to end its deal with Therme in light of the investigation.
Toronto city councillors Josh Matlow and Ausma Malik recently brought forward a motion to “protect” Ontario Place, which requests the city to provide an update on all city-related activities for the spa’s construction.
The motion requests insight and details into whether the province has taken ownership of the land at Ontario Place and if so, any options for the return of that land to the city.
The motion was adopted by Toronto city council last week.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford continues to embrace the upcoming Therme spa development but says his team is currently reviewing the contracts in light of the investigation.
