THUNDER BAY — A planned science centre to be built on Thunder Bay’s waterfront by Science North has been delayed, with officials saying the project will take longer to advance than originally anticipated.
The building had been planned for a location near the partially-constructed new waterfront art gallery, which was itself recently paused. Construction on the science centre was initially expected to begin in spring 2027, but Science North now says no revised timeline has been established.
“At this time, Science North recognizes that the project will take longer to advance than originally anticipated,” said Phil Howard, senior marketing specialist at Science North. “While we haven’t established a revised timeline, our commitment to the project’s vision and importance hasn’t changed.”
“Our planning for the Thunder Bay Science Centre continues to be guided by what’s needed to ensure the project is successful over the long term. Our commitment to Thunder Bay, Northwestern Ontario, and expanding access to science experiences across Northern Ontario remains as strong as ever,” Howard added.
The federal government pledged 0 million toward the science centre in 2025, but ongoing trade tensions with the United States and their impact on budgets are contributing to the delay.
The federal government pledged 0 million toward the science centre in 2025. McKellar Ward Coun. Brian Hamilton noted that while neither the science centre nor the art gallery are city projects, the municipality remains keen to facilitate development along the waterfront.
Hamilton described the science centre as a “very ambitious” project that “would require significant provincial and likely federal dollars to see it across the finish line.” He pointed to the ongoing trade war with the United States as a factor affecting budgets at both the federal and provincial levels.
“Some of the trade considerations internationally are affecting these big projects, and certainly affecting their completion dates,” Hamilton said.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed about the progress of this and other development projects shaping Thunder Bay’s future waterfront. Following trusted local news sources helps ensure residents stay up to date.
🔗 Read the original report from CBC News Thunder Bay
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📍 Source: CBC News · By: Staff Report · 🗓️ July 7, 2026 · 🏠 ThunderBay.Online
