Progress has been slow on a major seniors housing development in downtown Barrie, but the project is set for a summer 2027 opening.
The Residences on Owen, located at 55-57 McDonald Street, 61-67 Owen Street, and 70-78 Worsley Street, held its official groundbreaking ceremony in September 2023.
Originally expected to open in 2026, the timeline has been pushed back. Bruce Stewart of Traditions Development Company said several key factors have contributed to the limited construction activity over the past year.
“We have had pandemic and post-pandemic challenges, and we are trying to coordinate our development with the City of Barrie’s plans to replace the infrastructure along Owen Street during our construction period,” he said. “An increase in the density from 278 to 356 units necessitated the redesign of many structural, mechanical and electrical features which all took time. We estimate the first residents will move in the summer of 2027.”
Mayor Alex Nuttall said he hasn’t received a recent update on the project’s status, but he’s optimistic that construction will pick up soon.
“I have not received an update on the timing, however, I certainly want to see the project move past the initial foundation work that has taken place so far,” he said. “This project is important – the city will continue to show support for the residents who will be living there.”
Stewart said that once completed, the Residences of Owen will feature a range of amenities and services for residents.
“The development offers seniors both an ownership and a rental tenure with a full complement of amenities designed to allow one to age comfortably in place,” he said. “There will be three restaurants, a bistro, a bar, a fitness facility, a yoga studio, an indoor pool, a hobby and craft room, a potting room with outdoor gardens, a spa, a juice bar, a theatre, a pub with a golf simulator, and a pet spa.”
Stewart also said residents can opt into an AI health program for wellness monitoring. Optional housekeeping, laundry, and room service, with concierge and valet services available for residents and guests.
A six-storey podium with retail and amenities will support two residential towers: an eight-storey tower at Owen and McDonald, and a 20-storey tower at Owen and Worsley.
