Evergreen Brick Works is getting a $16-million facelift
Toronto’s verdant wonderland in the Don Valley should expect a new restaurant, flood-proofing and a children’s garden
Evergreen Brick Works is getting a $16-million makeover this year. The beloved community centre and green organization in the heart of the Don Valley plans to renew five areas, with some completed as early as this summer. The renovations include revamping the Ravine Centre—which will become a welcoming hub with Indigenous-led programming—plus climate upgrades such as a more-efficient HVAC system and flood-proofing measures.
An updated welcome centre and tower are also part of the plans. They will feature a steel-and-stained-glass installation from Ojibwa artist Bonnie Devine.
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“This investment will help ensure Evergreen Brick Works remains a resilient, welcoming place where communities can gather, explore, learn and celebrate,” said CEO Jen Angel. “By enhancing nature-based solutions alongside climate technology for cooling, biodiversity, stormwater management and net-zero operations, we are safeguarding vital programming for hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.”
Outside, phase one of the new Children’s Garden (equipped with an amphitheatre, a firepit and a canopy) should be completed this fall. Other expected upgrades include improved lighting and stronger accessibility.
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The Brick Works opened in 2012 after the city transformed the location’s former brick factory into a destination for culture and nature. The old industrial site is known for helping to build some of Toronto’s most iconic buildings, including Casa Loma and Old City Hall.
