In what EllisDon calls a “full-circle moment,” the company has officially broken ground on the Sir Robert Peel Centre Redevelopment Project in Toronto — the very same site it first built over four decades ago. This ambitious redevelopment marks not just an expansion, but a reinvention of how modern policing infrastructure is designed, focusing on performance, sustainability, and community service.
1. A Legacy Reimagined
For EllisDon, returning to the Sir Robert Peel Centre feels like reuniting with an old friend. The original structure, built in 1981, has long served as a cornerstone for Peel Regional Police operations. Now, the construction giant is back to upgrade the facility for the next generation.
2. Where It All Began
Located at 7750 Hurontario Street, the Sir Robert Peel Centre was named after Sir Robert Peel, known as the Father of Modern Policing. Since its opening, it has supported countless officers and civilian professionals dedicated to keeping Peel Region safe.
3. The Vision Behind the Redevelopment
According to Peel Police and EllisDon, the redevelopment aims to create a high-performance, modern policing hub tailored for the needs of a rapidly growing population. The goal is to ensure that law enforcement facilities evolve alongside the communities they serve.
4. Key Project Details and Scope
The project is a multi-phased redevelopment featuring:
- Two multi-storey buildings
- An above-ground parking structure
- Upgraded site access and secure parking
- Specialized workspaces for forensic and administrative units
Together, these upgrades will ensure the new complex operates with greater efficiency, security, and sustainability.
5. What Phase One Will Deliver
The first phase, spanning approximately 130,000 square feet, will include:
- Forensic identification facilities
- Detainee processing units
- Quartermaster and records management areas
- Administrative offices
- New secure parking and site enhancements
This first phase will be constructed in the northwest corner of the property and is expected to be completed by late 2028 or early 2029.
6. Looking Ahead to Phase Two
The second phase of the project will introduce:
- A new 22 Division headquarters
- A corporate development facility
- Additional parking accommodations
While phase two planning continues, the current Sir Robert Peel Centre will remain fully operational to ensure no disruption to police services.
7. Commitment to Sustainability and Zero Carbon Design
In keeping with EllisDon’s leadership in sustainable construction, the redevelopment aims to meet the Zero Carbon Building Standard. The company’s Sustainable Building Solutions and Building Material Sciences teams will play a central role in achieving this goal — helping reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and promote a healthier environment.
8. Community Impact and Operational Continuity
Despite major upgrades, Peel Police confirm that public safety operations will continue uninterrupted throughout construction. This approach allows officers and staff to maintain critical services while the site evolves around them.
9. Voices from EllisDon and Peel Police
“Breaking ground at the Sir Robert Peel Centre marks a unique opportunity to honor the past while shaping a modernized vision for the future,” said Andrew Anderson, Senior Vice-President and Area Manager, Toronto Buildings, EllisDon.
He added, “It’s a full-circle moment that reminds us how powerful it is to build with care, innovation, and purpose.”
10. The Project Timeline and Completion Goals
| Project Phase | Description | Estimated Completion |
|---|---|---|
| Phase One | Forensics, detainee processing, administration | Late 2028 – Early 2029 |
| Phase Two | 22 Division HQ, corporate facilities, extra parking | TBD |
11. Why This Redevelopment Matters
The redevelopment reflects a shift toward community-centered design — creating infrastructure that supports innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence. It’s more than a construction project; it’s a recommitment to public service and safety in one of Ontario’s fastest-growing regions.
12. EllisDon’s Legacy of Building the Future
From the 1980s to today, EllisDon has maintained a reputation for engineering excellence and sustainable innovation. The Sir Robert Peel Centre redevelopment stands as a testament to how far the company — and modern construction practices — have come.