Iconic Toronto sign replacement will cost the city over $700,000

Sep 10 2020, 6:39 pm

The iconic Toronto sign at Nathan Phillips Square is getting replaced with a newer, more durable sign in the next few days.

According to the City in a news release, the installation of the new Toronto sign is already underway and is set to take about a week to be removed and replaced with a brand new structure.

“As we embark upon the work to rebuild our city from the significant impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is fitting that installation of the new, more durable Toronto sign is underway,” said Mayor John Tory.

To remove the sign, create a new design, and to install it comes to a total cost of $761,842 net applicable taxes. The design and construction of the new sign alone is $490,000 net applicable taxes.

According to the City, it will be easier to clean, will be waterproof, and will also have an augmented lighting capacity as well as other creative features in order to “support public engagement and interaction.”

In the last five years, the sign standing right in front of City Hall has shown “significant” wear and tear; ongoing repairs and enhancements have been done to keep it functioning.

 

“I don’t think anyone can imagine Nathan Phillips Square without the now iconic Toronto sign. It has brought our city together to celebrate our achievements, mark occasions and raise awareness, all while providing a spectacular selfie back drop,” said Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson, Chair of the Economic and Community Development Committee.

The City plans to keep the maple leaf that was installed in 2017 to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday. The medicine wheel installed in 2018 in consultation with the Toronto Council fire native cultural Centre to honour national indigenous peoples day will also stay put, according to the City.

“I know when we get through this, Toronto will shine brighter, just like the sign itself. Like our iconic Toronto sign, together, I am confident that we will rebuild a Toronto that is inclusive, dynamic, and resilient,” said Tory.

The new and improved Toronto Sign will be shown in the next few days.

Karen DoradeaKaren Doradea

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