Falling glass forces conservatory’s closure

Falling glass has resulted in the closure of the Conservatory in the city.

The city of Thunder Bay said the Centennial Botanical Conservatory closed at noon on Tuesday for at least two months.

Staff said glass has been falling from the facility's ceiling over time. Access had already been restricted in a section where a pane fell earlier this month.

During the two-month closure, staff will investigate the building's problems. The city's Facilities and Fleet Department has assumed the day-to-day maintenance of the Conservatory Building. Work will also continue to maintain the plants. A report will go to council in March or April to determine the feasibility or maintaining and operating the conservatory in the future.

According to a city press release, council and administration “are looking to increase annual funding by $9.5 million through the Enhanced Infrastructure Renewal Program” by 2014.