Call it a sign of a major transformation in Barrie’s downtown.
A new sign now stands along Barrie’s waterfront, marking the future home of the city’s planned performing arts and convention centre.
Mayor Alex Nuttall joined several city councillors, Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte MP Doug Shipley, Barrie–Springwater–Oro-Medonte MPP Doug Downey and other dignitaries at 11 Simcoe St. to unveil the sign at the proposed waterfront site.
The project is planned for the current Sea Cadets property beside the Spirit Catcher sculpture and waterfront parking lot. The Sea Cadets are expected to relocate to a new facility next to the General John Hayter Southshore Community Centre, with construction scheduled to begin this summer.
Plans for the approximately 60,000-square-foot facility include a 600-seat main performance hall, a 200-seat rehearsal studio space, backstage areas, a coffee shop, a new restaurant and event facilities. The Spirit Catcher would also be relocated closer to Simcoe Street as part of the redevelopment.
City staff estimate the project will cost upwards of $85 million, although the final price tag will depend on the completed design and any additional space added to the facility.
Nuttall said the project represents a key investment in Barrie’s future.
“This project represents a major investment in the future of our city and reflects council’s commitment to supporting economic growth, tourism, culture and community development,” he said.
“The performing arts and convention centre will become a central destination for arts, entertainment, conventions, community events and cultural programming in the City of Barrie – it’s going to transform our waterfront.”
Downtown Coun. Craig Nixon said the project could help attract investment and visitors to the city’s core.
“Investments like this help encourage further private investment, support tourism, and create opportunities for community events, cultural programming and economic growth,” he said.
“This is about building a downtown that is active, welcoming and positioned for long-term success.”
A waterfront performing arts facility has been discussed in Barrie for decades through various proposals. Downey said the current council deserves credit for advancing the project.
“I do appreciate the collaboration because this council has a way of presenting a purpose, finding a path and actually doing it,” he said.
“For decades, we’ve heard about this project and it was never done.”
The Simcoe Street location was first proposed in 2024. Construction is expected to begin in early 2027, with completion targeted for late 2029.
City staff and council continue to pursue provincial and federal funding to help offset construction costs.
