Published: May 31, 2025 | Location: Barrie, Ontario
Introduction
As Barrie continues to experience significant growth, the city’s housing landscape is evolving to meet the demands of its expanding population. Over the next five years, numerous housing developments are planned, aiming to provide diverse and affordable living options while supporting sustainable urban growth.
City’s Housing Pledge and Growth Targets
In February 2023, the City of Barrie pledged to facilitate the construction of 23,000 housing units by 2031. By the end of 2023, planning approvals for 14,641 units had been issued. The city exceeded its 2023 target with 1,809 housing starts and set a goal of 1,917 starts for 2024. As of 2024, there were 29,165 residential units in the pipeline, with $65 million received in development charges. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Major Upcoming Developments
Sky Towers on Grove Street West
Construction is underway for the Sky Towers project, which will include two high-rise buildings—Tower A at 25 storeys and Tower B at 27 storeys—comprising 541 rental apartments, including 32 affordable units. Future phases will add a third 29-storey tower and a nine-storey building, totaling 928 rental suites. Completion is expected by 2027. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Rose Street Affordable Housing Project
The County of Simcoe has approved a mixed-use development on Rose Street, expanding from 176 to 215 rental apartments. The project will offer diverse housing types, including rent-geared-to-income and affordable units, along with spaces for social, health, and community services. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
South Barrie Apartment Project
A proposed development in South Barrie aims to provide 468 rental apartments, featuring a mix of one-bedroom, studio, and two-bedroom units. This project is part of the city’s efforts to increase affordable housing options. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Fairgrounds Redevelopment
Greenworld Construction has proposed a large-scale redevelopment of the former fairgrounds site, including nine towers up to 40 storeys and four-storey townhouses, totaling approximately 3,185 to 3,235 residences. The project also plans for commercial spaces and a school. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Additional Development Projects
- 535 Bayview Drive: Fully approved development by YMCA as of May 23, 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- 300 Mapleview Drive West: Proposed development under review by Hollyhomes Corporation. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
- 175 & 199 Essa Road and 50 Wood Street: Proposed development under review by Greenworld Construction Inc. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
- 89 Big Bay Point Road: Proposed development pending application submission. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
- 375–393 Yonge Street: Proposed seven-storey residential rental apartment building under review. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
- 830, 864 & 912 Lockhart Road (Hewitt’s Central): Conditionally approved development by Pratt Construction Inc. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
Neighborhood Growth Areas
Several neighborhoods in Barrie are experiencing significant growth:
- Ardagh / Rawson / Birdsall: Northeast sections with new developments like Bradford Forest and Ardagh Estates, offering good access to commerce and schools. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
- Painswick / Maddaugh: South Barrie neighborhoods with a suburban feel, hosting Barrie South Hospital, schools, and parks; popular with young families. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
- The Orchard: Far northeast, semi-rural area with farmland and new subdivisions, closer to trails and greenery. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
- County Edge (Springwater): Areas just outside city limits offering slightly cheaper housing with a Barrie address and commute. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
Government Initiatives and Funding
The City of Barrie is actively pursuing initiatives to support housing development:
- Per Door Grant Program: Up to $5 million in funding is available to support the construction of new affordable housing units. :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
- Housing Accelerator Fund: Barrie is implementing best practices to increase housing supply, including ending exclusionary zoning and enhancing development approval processes. :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
- Official Plan: The city’s new Official Plan emphasizes the development of mixed-use buildings and more affordable housing options, aiming to create complete communities where people can live, work, shop, and access services close to home. :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
Conclusion
Barrie’s commitment to accommodating its growing population is evident through its ambitious housing development plans. With a mix of high-rise apartments, affordable housing projects, and neighborhood expansions, the city is poised to offer diverse living options. Continued collaboration between government, developers, and the community will be essential in realizing these goals and ensuring sustainable urban growth.
