Former Niagara Falls power plant to become $200 million five-star hotel

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Niagara Falls’ former power plant, built more than a century ago and vacant for nearly 40 years, will be transformed into a $200 million luxury hotel following an agreement between Niagara Parks and Pearl Hospitality.

The Toronto Power Plant was designed by EJ Lennox, the architect behind turn-of-the-century buildings such as Toronto’s Casa Loma and Old City Hall. Opened in 1906, at its peak it provided over 100,000 kW of electricity to the city of Toronto.

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It ceased operations in 1974 in favor of the more powerful Sir Adam Beck Power Station downstream, and was declared a National Historic Site in 1983, but remains vacant except as an occasional target for urban explorers. It was left unused. However, it remains a highly visible landmark due to its elevated position along the Niagara River Parkway. The Niagara Parks Commission took over ownership of this structure in 2007.

It is now the location of Niagara Falls’ “first and only 5-star boutique lodging,” says Niagara Parks CEO in a flashy promotional video posted on X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube. , said David Adams. Adams said the renovated building will include free indoor and outdoor public viewing areas, including a rooftop observation deck overlooking the falls.

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The hotel will also include a museum dedicated to Lenox, a public art gallery, a microbrewery, and theater and event space.

The redevelopment has already been going on for two years. In the fall of 2021, Niagara Parks began a procurement process to rehabilitate buildings, create new guest experiences, generate rental payments for Niagara Parks, and generate capital investment for the region.

The signing of a letter of intent with Pearl Hospitality means the company will proceed with environmental, archaeological and other assessments, hold a groundbreaking ceremony in the summer or fall of 2024, and have a grand opening in 2027.

“The energy of this place is undeniable, and its story of innovation and invention must be respected,” Pearl said in a press release. “We are grateful for the opportunity to be part of the future story and legacy of Toronto Power Station, and we want Canadians to feel proud.”

The company has extensive experience in renovating and repurposing heritage and industrial sites, including Elora Mill Hotel and Spa (originally a flour mill built in 1832), Cambridge Mill (formerly Dixon Mills, opened in 1843), and Ancaster Mill. I have experience. It began in 1863 as a flour mill constructed of limestone after his three previous flour mills were destroyed by fire.

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“As we work to redevelop the Toronto Power site, we look forward to applying the best practices we have learned through our history of building, redeveloping and operating distinctive, world-class destinations across Ontario.” said spokesman Brian McMullan. For Pearl Hospitality. “Niagara Falls is already an iconic destination. Our vision for this project is to create a truly breathtaking hospitality venue befitting one of Canada’s natural wonders, where visitors can enjoy the falls experience. It is to do so.”

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