The Ontario government is moving forward with plans to transform Ontario Place into a waterfront destination free of residential development.

“Our government is committed to ensuring the future of Ontario Place continues to be a place for people of all ages to enjoy in every season,” says Michael Coteau, Ontario’s minister of transportation, culture and sport. “Ontarians have said they want year-round public access, a continuation of the rich legacy of live music and a desire for an innovative destination that unites land and water — we listened and we are moving forward.”

Project highlights include:

• Public recreational space (including a waterfront trail and a blue park for water activities)

• An area devoted to cultural activities, community gatherings and festivals

• An expansion of live music options

• New learning and research facilities

• Conservation of the Cinesphere and pods

• A canal district featuring retail shops and restaurants

• A landscape pedestrian bridge

The project will include two phases. The first involves building the urban park and the waterfront trail. The second phase includes an environmental assessment and soil remediation. The urban park and trail is expected to open in 2016.