http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Politics/2009/11/30/11984871-sun.html

The federal government will kick in $20 million to help breathe new life into the iconic Maple Leaf Gardens, Sun Media has learned.

"For nearly 80 years, Maple Leaf Gardens has been at the heart of Toronto's sporting and cultural landscape. It's a shame that it's sitting empty," said the source. "It's time the former home of Leafs Nation once again welcomes, excites and inspires. Tomorrow, Ryerson University, Loblaws and the federal government will all say yes to the revitalization of Maple Leaf Gardens."

No wonder we have record deficits now.

Toronto can't afford to keep open its pools or build new hockey rinks for kids but we can piss $20 million away on Maple Leaf Gardens

Yup. Put money in something that I probably will never visit.... :o

On my first ever trip to Toronto this past spring, I made certain to pay a visit to Maple Leaf Gardens. I think it would make sense to offer a place that appeals to tourists in addition to the locals. I would have no interest in visiting a grocery store or a fitness gym.

(But somehow I don't mind visiting an empty, boarded-up buidling :p)