Reimagined 90 Queen’s Park project to foster collaboration, city-building and civic engagement

The University of Toronto is moving forward with a reimagined vision for the building planned for 90 Queen’s Park Crescent – one that reflects evolving space requirements in the post-pandemic academic landscape and ensures long-term financial sustainability.

The building – set to become a major centre for scholarship on urban issues, a hub for community engagement and a key gateway to the St. George campus – will now rise six storeys instead of eight and will occupy approximately 60 per cent less space than originally envisioned. 

U of T’s School of Cities will be the primary occupant, anchoring the facility with a mission to advance urban-focused research, teaching and dialogue. The building will include spaces for the Faculty of Arts & Science, Faculty of Law and Faculty of Music and will feature a world-class recital hall. 

The latest revisions will preserve more of Falconer Hall’s west wing than previously planned, maintaining a greater portion of the historic structure.

U of T President Meric Gertler, who championed the creation of the School of Cities, said he is delighted to see it reside at the heart of the project. 

“This new space will welcome scholars, students, community members and civic leaders who are interested in understanding the forces shaping cities and are committed to developing inclusive and evidence-based solutions,” said President Gertler, who will become a distinguished scholar in residence at the School of Cities after stepping down as president on July 1, following 12 years in the role. 

“It reflects the university’s deep commitment to collaboration, public engagement and the pursuit of knowledge that serves society. I would like to thank all those involved in making this ambitious and important project a reality.”

(Full Story by Rahul Kalvapalle)

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