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So here we are, standing at the Bloor Viaduct, staring at what should be a glittering display of lights—yet instead, we’re greeted by a sad, flickering reminder of a promise unfulfilled. The Luminous Veil, initially unveiled for the 2015 Toronto Pan Am Games, was supposed to be a shining testament to public art and safety.
But instead, it’s become a dim metaphor for neglect and incompetence. Who knew that a few LED lights could result in such a spectacular fail?
What went wrong?
When the Luminous Veil first lit up, it was as if the city had decided to sprinkle fairy dust across the skyline.
Hundreds of LED lights, responsive to the wind and temperature, were meant to create an enchanting display—but like a bad date, it never quite lived up to expectations. Reports from city officials, including Coun. Paula Fletcher, reveal that the installation has been plagued with issues since day one.
Some sections remain stubbornly dark, while others twinkle like they’re auditioning for a bad music video. Talk about mixed signals!
The city’s response
Now, let’s talk about the city’s brilliant plan—or lack thereof. Fletcher recently brought up a motion at the Economic and Social Development Committee, asking city staff to fix this mess.
What’s truly amusing is that when the lights were installed, there was no way to report issues. So, unless residents call 311, it’s as if the city is playing an elaborate game of hide and seek with malfunctioning lights. “Let’s get this back up and running a hundred percent,” Fletcher exclaimed.
But how about ensuring it actually works first?
Lights out and nobody’s home
In 2021, the city entered a two-year service agreement with a company for maintenance, but the outcome can only be described as tragic. After a hefty investment of $36,200, the city was informed that these custom lighting elements were nearing the end of their life cycle.
Seriously? How do you spend that much and end up with more black panels than lights? The words “epic fail” come to mind. Residents like Albert Stortchak, who represents the Broadview Danforth BIA, are understandably frustrated. They’ve even raised $25,000 to get the display back on track. Talk about a community effort wasted.
A dark message
Stortchak highlighted a poignant truth: the Luminous Veil was meant to shed light on serious issues—namely, mental illness and suicide prevention. When the lights go out, what message are we sending? The irony is thick enough to cut with a knife. We’re left with a glaring reminder that when the city sets lofty goals, they often end up as dim shadows of their intended glory. It’s a classic case of “let’s start something amazing” followed by “oops, never mind.”
What’s next?
Fletcher’s motion will have staff reporting back in September, with hopes of getting the display lit up again—preferably before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But will the city actually follow through this time? Or will the Luminous Veil continue to flicker and fade like a bad memory? One can only hope the city learns from its mistakes. After all, Torontonians deserve a skyline that dazzles, not one that’s a constant reminder of neglect.
As we stand here, gazing up at the darkened veil, we can’t help but wonder: when will the city get its act together? Or will we just keep stumbling in the dark?
