Toronto Councillor Advocates for Major Allan Gardens Greenhouse Expansion

Councillor Chris Moise, representing Toronto Centre, has put forward a motion requesting the city to commit $9 million for the expansion of the Allan Gardens greenhouse. This funding would supplement the $1 million previously committed by the city. The total estimated cost for the project is $50 million, aiming to increase the greenhouse's footprint from 16,000 to over 32,000 square feet.

According to Moise, the $9 million would be sourced from development fees within his ward, rather than property taxes. The remaining $40 million is expected to come from fundraising and philanthropic contributions. The expansion plans include connecting existing greenhouse wings, incorporating more native plant species, and developing educational programs for youth and volunteers.

The community organization, Friends of Allan Gardens, has been a strong proponent of the expansion, gathering nearly 8,500 signatures on a petition to support the initiative. They emphasize the importance of maintaining free public access to the conservatory, describing it as a vital green space in the urban environment.

City staff are expected to collaborate with Friends of Allan Gardens on the project, with a report back to council scheduled for 2027. The proposed expansion also envisions a world-class botanical garden and greenhouses focused on food production.

Construction is tentatively slated to begin next summer, with an estimated completion time of 18 months, pending municipal planning approvals and the city's commitment to the project.