Aldermen will have to decide if $14.5 million in funding for the second phase of construction on the Devonian Gardens should come from the city’s reserve funds.
The community and protective services committee will decide Wednesday whether to approve the recommendation for funding. Construction on the gardens will help create a vibrant city centre, city documents say.
Plans for the renovation of the building include high-end shops and an opening in the gardens for natural light to reach shoppers below, as well as event space for functions in the gardens. The first phase, set to open in October of this year, includes much-needed infrastructure improvements and a children’s playground. But the city says leaving the construction at that would be a disappointment.
“I know many people who work there go and relax during their lunch breaks,” said Charlene Soares, a former downtown worker and frequent TD Square visitor who supports the improvements. “We want to build more tourist attractions in this city and get it on the map.”
Council OK
Any decision at committee would need to be approved by city council.
