​​​​​​​​This project milestone represents significant progress as part of Brampton’s broader Downtown Revitalization

BRAMPTON, ON (July 21, 2025) – ​Downtown Brampton is undergoing a major transformation, supported by a dedicated investment of $23.8 million through the 2025 Budget, for the revitalization of Main and Queen Streets. This includes improvements to roads, sidewalks, lighting, street furniture and landscaping, as well as the reconstruction of Ken Whillans Square. 

A key component of this revitalization is the Centre for Innovation (CFI), ​which will anchor Brampton’s growing Innovation District and serve as a catalyst for economic and cultural transformation in the downtown core. ​This exciting project is gaining momentum as the City of Brampton takes another step in preparation for construction to start on the CFI with the permanent closure and upcoming demolition of Nelson Square Parking Garage (2 Diplock Ln.) and George Street Surface Parking Lot (20 George St. N.) beginning September 1, 2025.

​Nelson Square Parking Garage and George Street Surface Parking Lot to close on September 1 to make way for the future Centre for Innovation. Credit: City of Brampton​

The CFI is a planned landmark development in the heart of downtown Brampton, designed to support education, entrepreneurship and economic growth. Located near the Brampton Innovation District Transit Hub and within walking distance of post-secondary institutions and major employers, the CFI will feature a new central library, collaborative workspaces, digital innovation labs and flexible space for academic, business and community use. As a cornerstone of Brampton's Innovation District, the CFI will help attract investment, develop local talent and support local businesses to succeed and prosper in a competitive, innovation-driven economy. 

Nelson Square Parking Garage and George Street Surface Parking Lot Closure

As a part of the Nelson Square Parking Garage and George Street Surface Parking Lot closure and demolition, all vehicles must be removed from the garage and parking lot by September 1. Current parking passholders will be contacted for relocation to another municipal parking garage in the downtown area. 

Alternative parking is available at four municipal parking garages nearby, which offer free parking for the first two hours:

• City Hall Parking Garage – 2 Wellington St. W.
• West Tower Parking Garage – 41 George St.
• John Street Parking Garage – 16 John St.
• Market Square Parking Garage – 1 Theatre Ln.
  

The City is committed to minimizing disruptions and the impact on the public during the demolition project. Regular updates will be available at brampton.ca/CFI​ to keep residents, businesses and visitors informed. 

Downtown Brampton is rapidly becoming a thriving ecosystem for innovation and technology, positioning the city to compete on a global stage and helping propel the local, provincial and national economy forward. Learn more about the projects underway by visiting brampton.ca/downtown​​. 

Interactive Construction Map

Residents and businesses are encouraged to explore the City’s interactive construction map for real-time updates on downtown projects, including:

• Project locations
• Scope of work
• Project status
• Anticipated start and completion dates
  

To access the interactive construction map, visit brampton.ca/downtown​. 

​Support local businesses 

The City is working closely with the Downtown Brampton BIA and local businesses to minimize disruption and maintain access throughout construction.

Downtown businesses remain open throughout construction, and residents and visitors are encouraged to continue shopping, dining and attending events in the area. Supporting local businesses helps sustain jobs, strengthens the local economy and keeps Brampton’s downtown vibrant and resilient through this period of transformation. To discover upcoming events and explore the unique shopping and dining experiences in downtown Brampton, visit the Downtown Brampton BIA website​.​

Quotes

​“This milestone is a clear signal that Brampton’s vision for a modern, connected, innovative and thriving downtown is becoming a reality. The Centre for Innovation will be a game-changer for our city, bringing new opportunities in education, business and talent development and positioning Brampton as a national leader in innovation. As one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, Brampton is an economic engine for the region, the province and the country, driving growth, creating jobs and shaping the future of our economy. We are committed to keeping residents and businesses informed every step of the way as we continue building a future-ready Brampton boasting world-class amenities and boundless opportunities.” - Patrick Brown, Mayor, City of Brampton

“The closure of the Nelson Square Parking Garage and George Street Surface Parking Lot represents a pivotal step forward in the realization of Brampton's Centre for Innovation. This also marks tangible progress in the ongoing development of the Innovation District, an emerging engine of economic growth for our city. As we advance this transformative initiative, we remain committed to supporting a seamless transition for the community while laying the groundwork for a more dynamic, resilient, and prosperous downtown that will attract investment, foster innovation and benefit future generations." - Marlon Kallideen, Chief Administrative Officer, City of Brampton ​