Since April 2019, OCAD University has been working on a proposal to build an extension to 100 McCaul St., part of its campus expansion project to revitalize and expand its core campus facilities, including new classrooms and dedicated space for an Indigenous Learning Centre.
This work has involved engaging with various stakeholders, including the City of Toronto’s planning staff and members of the university and local community to respond to issues and address questions about the project.
In February 2020, a public meeting was held to obtain feedback from the OCAD U community and neighbourhood. This feedback was incorporated in the University’s resubmission of a rezoning application to the City of Toronto in early August 2020. At the same, the University submitted an application for site plan approval, which is a necessary step in any construction project.
Recent news stories about the resubmission and application have created the impression that the University is ready to break ground and complete construction in the 2020-21 academic year.
At this time, OCAD U is exploring options for financing while at the same time moving the project forward through the city’s approval process, one that can take between 12 and 18 months, so it can be in a position to begin construction once it has secured funding.
Project planning will continue this fall with the University expecting to receive comments from the City of Toronto about its applications. Upon approval for the site plan, the next step is to obtain approval for a building permit. However, the University will apply for a building permit only once it has confirmation about the project’s financing.