The Iconic Toronto Sign Just Got Torn Down From Nathan Phillips Square (VIDEO)
A short-lived monument and a piece of the 6ix’s history has been torn down. The Toronto sign, an iconic attraction and tourist spot for the city, has been deconstructed and will be replaced with a more durable version. The new installment should be up next week.
The idea, which was floated last year, became a reality on Thursday as pieces of the sign were taken down, leaving Nathan Phillips Square a bit emptier.
According to the City of Toronto, the installment of the new sign is estimated to take one week.
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However, the structure could be revealed to residents before that time, who will surely be able to witness it being built in the large outdoor area.
Sad as it may be to see the original one go, it was never meant to last.
The now-defunct Toronto sign was initially built as a temporary structure for the 2015 Toronto Pan American and Parapan American Games.
The monument was only meant to last a few weeks, but residents loved it so much it was left up as a permanent part of the city.
The City did do its best to maintain the original sign through the years, but a decision was made to scrap the fragile piece and replace it with something more equipped to stand the test of time.
"I know when we get through this, Toronto will shine brighter, just like the sign itself. Like our iconic Toronto Sign, together, I am confident that we will rebuild a Toronto that is inclusive, dynamic, and resilient,” Mayor Tory said in a press release.
Photos have appeared online that show workers removing the giant white letters from the spot where they have stood for years.
“I don’t think anyone can imagine Nathan Phillips Square without the now-iconic Toronto Sign. It has brought our City together to celebrate our achievements, mark occasions and raise awareness, all while providing a spectacular selfie backdrop,” Deputy Mayor Michael Thompson added.
The new sign will be waterproof and have better lighting capabilities than the old one.
You can expect to see it take shape over the next couple of days.