Shovels are finally in the ground for a $217 million affordable housing development at 20 Rose Street in Barrie.
The mixed-use project sits on 4.7 acres in north Barrie and will include two residential towers, greenspace, parking, and a range of community services. The 9 and 11-storey towers will offer 220 mixed-income units – 80% affordable and 20% market-rate. The development will also be home for new Ontario Works offices and other county-run housing, childcare, and social service
programs, with ground-floor space for health and education agencies.
Several dignitaries attended the groundbreaking, including Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall, MPP Andrea Khanjin, Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke, Township of Springwater Mayor Jennifer Coughlin, and Barrie Couns. Craig Nixon, Nigussie Nigussie, and Clare Riepma.
Nuttall said the project will help many residents find stable housing.
“These buildings will provide a roof over the heads of families who need it most and give young people the incredible opportunity I had growing up in government housing here in Barrie,” he said.
“Thank you to the County of Simcoe, from the bottom of our hearts, for your care and support for those who need it most.”
Clarke said the development will have a meaningful impact on people’s lives.
“Where we are standing today will become a place where kids laugh as they play on the playground, and maybe even make a new friend. It’s where dreams will be dreamt, and people will be able to get a fresh start,” he said.
“And that’s why we’re building our largest development to date right here because it matters to our children, grandchildren, and future generations.”
Nixon, who represents the area, said the project is vital to expanding both affordable housing and community support systems.
“This marks significant progress in expanding affordable housing and essential social services for those in greatest need. It’s also a great example of what can be achieved when the city, county, and province work together toward a shared goal,” he said.
Phase one, which includes the parking structure and community services space, is scheduled to be completed by 2026. Phase two is expected to wrap up by late 2027.
