The Toronto Estonian community is celebrating the completion of a new cultural center these days. The construction has lasted for years and has fallen behind schedule. Now the center is in its final stages.
The center was supposed to open already in August, but work is still ongoing. Instead of an opening, the completion of construction is now being celebrated. "The plan was to be ready by 2022, but the schedule has been delayed. We are working hard to finish the center," said Ellen Valter, who leads the project.
The construction has been prolonged for several reasons: the pandemic, high construction costs, supply difficulties, and technical problems. Now the work is almost done. "It's unbelievable! Many didn't believe it would ever be completed," said Reet Marten Sehr.
The center costs 56 million Canadian dollars. It is one of the largest projects of Toronto Estonians. The funds come from the sale of the old Estonian House and donations. The Estonian and Canadian governments have also contributed.
The sale of the old Estonian House has brought sadness to many. This house was home to Estonians for a long time. "It was our home when Estonia was not free. It was hard to leave it," said Veiko Parming, chairman of Toronto Estonian House.
The new center includes a concert hall, library, classrooms, offices, and a restaurant. The main goal is to bring Estonians together again in one place. "I'm excited to see how children will play here," said Elin Marley.
The center is expected to open by the end of this year. Until then, its completion is celebrated with a four-day cultural festival.