SVI is exploring multiple pathways to enhance its property at 620 Spadina Avenue, which is strategically located in downtown Toronto close to the Bloor Street Culture Corridor, Harbord Village, and within walking distance to Chinatown, Kensington Market, Yorkville, and the Annex. This prime location, across from the University of Toronto and minutes from Queen’s Park and the financial core, offers excellent connectivity via subway and streetcar lines.

SVI recognizes the immense value of this location and is considering several development scenarios (Pathways) to expand its potential for future generations. See *Pathways section for more details.

Yes, the current structure of the building was thoroughly evaluated, considering all aspects such as floor layouts, room sizes, ceiling heights, and essential infrastructure. The building was originally a four-storey building, that later was expanded to the south to annex an existing church, and a new two-storey addition built to join the two buildings. The existing building cannot meet modern building standards through renovation alone. For instance, the limited ceiling height restricts the ability to enhance ventilation and air conditioning systems effectively. This configuration makes it impossible to optimize functionality without incurring significantly higher costs with any large-scale renovation efforts.

A Project Director, reporting directly to the SVI Board of Directors, has been retained to manage all aspects of the project. A Development Advisory Committee (DAC) has been created to provide advice and recommendation to the Project Director and through the Project Director to the SVI Board. The DAC is made up of a Chair, board members and volunteers knowledgeable in the fields of construction, architecture, business and finance. Professional consultants in their respective disciplines are being brought on as the project requires.

This project requires a capital campaign. We will be looking at sponsorships, grants, fundraising events, and other community support.  In addition, the plans include income generating revenue streams to sustain us into the future.  A component of the financing will also come from institutional lenders.  If you are interested in supporting this project in any way, please contact projectdirector@stvolodymyr.org

SVI is one of the last significant Ukrainian community buildings in downtown Toronto. Located at 620 Spadina Avenue, in the heart of the city and close to Toronto’s premier cultural and educational institutions, this new facility will have significant exposure and foster cross-pollination with similarly focused organizations. Our vision extends beyond serving just the Ukrainian community; we aim to make this centre a prominent feature of Toronto, integrating with the local and downtown community.

SVI will thrive by being not only a hub for Ukrainian culture but also a vital part of the broader local cultural scene. The facility will support and collaborate with a diverse array of groups, including academic and arts organizations, ensuring its sustainability and vibrancy. The theatre and event spaces, for example, will be prime rental locations for various cultural and community activities, supporting a wide range of local and international initiatives. This centre is dedicated to enriching the cultural fabric of Toronto, making it a place for everyone.

The Master Plan and Business Plan studies tested the physical and planning regime realities of our site against financial feasibility. With the results of those studies in hand, we will take time to further refine them with more detailed inputs to devise a path forward. The development process will require planning applications to be submitted to the City of Toronto to redesignate and rezone the property to accommodate the new facility and proposed uses. The planning applications constitute a public process, with statutory timelines under the Planning Act. Construction timelines will be determined with a building team.

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The new facility is created by the Ukrainian Canadian community for everyone, including the residents of Toronto and collaborators from various international Ukrainian communities. It will also welcome organizations that share a similar mission and vision, working together to establish a unique space in Toronto. Our aim is to create a hub for anyone excited to learn from what we have to showcase and offer, be it cultural, educational, or innovative experiences.

This facility will be a showpiece for the global Ukrainian community, reflecting its rich heritage. The Ukrainian community is more diverse than ever, and we are dedicated to reflecting this variety in our new space, celebrating the many voices and experiences that enrich our vibrant culture.

As we explore a new future for ourselves, we anticipate that a new facility may have a new name that is more representative of our re-imagined facility.

The architectural design has not yet been prepared. The Master Plan produced a hypothetical model depicting both the interior space and exterior shape of the building. Essentially it shows a schematic of how the building will be used and what we hope to achieve, considering multiple aspects, such as surrounding context, planning / zoning regulations, and our space requirements. It will also consider floor layouts, accessibility and adjacencies. This forms the basis and input to the architectural design.

SVI has retained consultants to undertake a comprehensive Business Plan to determine income generation, carrying costs, and overall financial feasibility. Additionally, we are testing various development scenarios to ensure various projects options are thoroughly explored and are sustainable for the long term. This due diligence process involves considering multiple pathways to ensure the facility will not only be financially viable but will also serve the community effectively for generations to come. The results of these studies are in the process of being updated and refined to guide the project's progression.

Underground parking accommodation is anticipated and is being evaluated. The cost of construction and the ability to excavate the site will determine the extent of the parking availability. Additionally, the impact on the local community is being considered to ensure minimal disruption. SVI is also well serviced by transit, and it is anticipated that many will utilize those means to access the facility.

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Contact us at projectdirector@stvolodymyr.org