County breaks ground on new affordable housing development in Barrie

Includes 220 new affordable housing rentals and commercial space for health and community services agencies

Midhurst/June 10, 2025 – Earlier today, the County of Simcoe broke ground on what will be its biggest build to date, with 220 affordable housing rentals and commercial space for health and community services agencies.

“Today marks the start of a brighter future for Simcoe County,” said Warden Basil Clarke, County of Simcoe. “While many right now may see a construction site, I see hope and optimism for families to create opportunities. Where we are standing today will become a place where kids will laugh as they play on the playground, and maybe even make a new friend. It is where dreams will be dreamt, and people will be able to get a fresh start on life. And that is why we are building up our largest development to date on this spot. Because we know it matters to our children, grandchildren, and future generations.”

“These buildings will provide a roof over the heads of families that need it most and give these young people that incredible opportunity that I was provided growing up in government housing here in Barrie,” added Mayor Alex Nuttall, City of Barrie. “Thank you to the County of Simcoe from the bottom of our hearts for their care and support for those who need it most.”

Well-designed housing provides safety, health and affordability. It further represents an investment in our community and sense of place. Affordable housing created through this development will increase the opportunity for low-to-moderate income households, as well as some specific vulnerable individuals, to access housing with dignity.

The multi-use development will include 220 mixed affordable residential rental units for families and seniors. The mixed-income rental development will provide a range of affordable units, balancing a range of incomes and housing to create a secure, high-quality, well-maintained living environment. Residential space will include a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. Units follow a universal design to age-in-place, ensuring this will be a comfortable place to call home for people of all ages.

Residential space

This proposed development will include two apartment towers (9 and 11 storey buildings) as well as a linked parking structure. It will maximize the proposed affordability mix of 80% affordable units and 20% market units comprised of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom suites.

Community Services space

Dedicated office space for County services, including Community Support & Wellbeing, Early Learning & Child Care System Management, Housing & Homelessness Services, Community Housing, and provincial services will be located on upper floors above the adjacent parking structure.

Commercial space

The ground floor will include commercial space for health and community services agencies, such as education, social enterprises, and licensed childcare as well as other services to address a wide range of age-appropriate programming.

The first phase of this build will focus on the parking structure and community services space. It is expected to be complete in 2026, with the residential and commercial portion of the development following during the second phase. The second phase of the project is expected to be completed in 2027, with tenants moving in shortly after completion. 

About the County of Simcoe

County of Simcoe is composed of 16 member municipalities and provides crucial public services to County residents in addition to providing paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia. Visit our website at simcoe.ca.