Ryerson's New Look

January 26, 2008 - The Premier has announced a $45 million contribution to help Ryerson University purchase several buildings along Yonge Street for a new library extension and student centre. Among the buildings to be purchased is the old Sam The Record Man building. Part of the University's master plan, this new development will give Ryerson frontage onto Yonge Street, enabling the university to finally have a "proper entrance".

The concept plans that were presented show the big Sam sign will be preserved in the new building. Retail will remain at the ground level, with the library and study space above. I like the big Ryerson University sign (it's much better than the U of T one across Harbord at Spadina). I also think Gould Street could definitely be more pedestrian friendly. I don't know if it should be shut down to traffic completely, but a similar scheme like the St. George master plan is achieveable.

Constructions are set to begin in a year's time! would be interesting to see if they could get the City to agree to its plans for Gould Street, but the new building on Yonge Street would mark yet another exciting project for the area.