TORONTO AND EXPO 2025: YES, WE CAN
CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: EXPO CAN BE DELIVERED
EXPO SUPPORTERS TO COUNCIL: FINISH DUE DILIGENCE ON GREAT PROJECT
A broad cross-section of Torontonians stood in the heart of the city in front of the iconic Toronto sign and called on city councillors to give a vote of confidence in their city and to give Expo 2025 a chance.
On Wednesday, Executive Committee will review a privately-funded feasibility study which projects multi-billion dollar benefits that far outstrip the incremental costs of staging Expo.
A staff report commented: “Expo 2025 has the potential to be the largest and most impactful economic and cultural event held in Canada since Expo ’67.”
In spite of that glowing observation, the report recommended proceeding no further with bid explorations, citing concerns about completing projects on time and support from the federal and provincial governments.
Prominent civic leaders disputed the findings.
Andy Manahan, Executive Director of the Residential and Civil Construction Alliance of Ontario (RCCAO) said the staff report is “dead wrong” in suggesting Ontario’s builders would not be able to deliver on time. “Our members are poised and ready to go to get it built. We have a construction industry that is second to none in the world.”
Former Ontario Minister of Economic Development and Trade Sandra Pupatello said the city cannot possibly know whether Ottawa or Queen’s Park will support Expo 2025, given that council has not officially asked. She cited a May letter from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in which he said his government is “prepared to explore next steps”, should Toronto say it wants to bid.
“To me, that sounds like an invitation,” said Ms. Pupatello.
Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam called upon Executive Committee to vote to continue the city’s due diligence and to explore whether support from the provincial and federal government will be forthcoming.
“This is too great an opportunity to let go because of neglect,” she said.
For more information:
Sean Mallen- cell: 416-602-9772, [email protected]