The federal government has committed up to $20 million for the construction of a permanent science centre in Thunder Bay.
Science North (Source: Link2Build.ca)
Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu announced the funding in March, prior to the start of the federal election.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to announce this historic $20 million federal investment in Science North’s new waterfront facility in Thunder Bay,” the minister said. “This world-class attraction will not only inspire curiosity and innovation but also draw new talent, tourism, and economic opportunity to our region.”
Funding for the project is being provided through the federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.
The scope of the project calls for construction of a net-zero science centre attraction in Thunder Bay, designed to the Canadian Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Standard (V4) and which will provide accessible community services to 67,500 people annually.
The centre will offer high-quality cultural, recreational, and science-based experiences developed through extensive consultation with Indigenous communities, leaders, and advisors. It will also use green energy, including a heating and cooling system that uses geothermal power from Lake Superior.
"This investment from the Government of Canada marks a critical milestone in our journey to bring a world-class science centre to Northwestern Ontario,” said Science North Chief Executive Officer Ashley Larose. “We are excited to take this important step forward, ensuring that Thunder Bay and the broader region will soon have an accessible, net-zero facility designed to inspire learning, discovery, and innovation for generations to come."
The federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program was launched in 2021 with an initial investment of $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades. It aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, increase energy efficiency, and help develop higher resilience to climate change.