Ontario Construction News staff writer
EllisDon has announced that the Toronto court house project reached substantial completion
“On behalf of everyone at EllisDon, I extend a big congratulations to the skilled and dedicated team who contributed to the successful completion of the Ontario Court of Justice – Toronto,” said Andrew Anderson, senior vice president and Toronto area manager at EllisDon. “This is a massive achievement not only for our project team, but also for our project partners and stakeholders.
“Thank you to our partners, architects, consultants and most especially, our trade subcontractors, whose hard work and exceptional talent and expertise helped bring this project to fruition.”
The unique architecture of the new courthouse was designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop in Paris, France — in conjunction with local architects from NORR. The design was based on maximizing exterior public space, improving the streetscape on Centre Avenue, Armoury and Chestnut Streets, and strengthening the links and relationship between the courthouse, City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square.
Designed to achieve a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Silver certification, the new courthouse also features an Indigenous Learning Centre (ILC), the first of its kind in an Ontario courthouse. The ILC includes a circular gathering space and Elders’ room, and will offer opportunities for the public, justice workers, and students to learn about Indigenous Law, treaties, history and realities related to the justice system in Ontario, including truth and reconciliation and Indigenous legal traditions.
The courthouse design will allow for smudging, ceremonies and gatherings to take place in the ILC, as well as elsewhere within and outside of the courthouse.
Ontario Court of Justice criminal courts previously operating out of several locations have been consolidated at the site. The new courthouse will allow for an overall reduction in costs, improve operations, provide equal access to services, and will ensure the province’s real estate portfolio is sustainable, accessible, and efficient.
In February 2018, EllisDon Infrastructure was awarded the contract to design, build, finance and maintain the OCJT and construction commenced shortly thereafter. EllisDon Facilities Services, in partnership with SNC-Lavalin, has been involved through the design development, construction and commissioning and now operates and maintains the building, providing cleaning services, security and upkeep of the food outlet.
“This marks a major milestone for our facilities management team,” said Colin Flock, senior vice president, EllisDon facilities services. “With our partners at SNC-Lavalin, we will now be taking over maintenance of the facility, enhancing building performance and will continue to deliver unmatched value and excellence over the long-term duration of the project.”