Midhurst/August 9, 2023 – County Council yesterday expanded its plan to create additional affordable rental spaces at the County’s Rose Street location. Previously approved for 176 new affordable rentals, the new approved plan expands on this to create 215 total spaces, for a net increase to the original plan of 39 units, in the City of Barrie. This maximizes the proposed affordability mix and intensifies the original design, substituting some of the two- and three-bedroom units with studio and one-bedroom units on upper floors. It also relocates the Social and Community Services office space to the top of the proposed parking structure, allowing for more residential units.
“County Council recognizes the importance of creating more affordable rental spaces throughout our communities,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “Council approved the original vision for this site earlier this year, but asked staff to bring back additional options to further utilize this opportunity. Yesterday, Council supported expanding the build as we continue to invest in strategies that build up our communities, through responsible and impactful solutions to address the housing crisis.”
About the Rose Street development
This build will include diverse or mixed housing types, including rent-geared-to income, affordable housing, and units for the “missing middle”, in addition to space for social, health and community partners. With the estimated $217 million development, the 1.9-hectare (4.7 acre) site is in a central location in the built-up urban setting with access to commercial amenities, schools, transit and pedestrian connectivity. Community consultation will occur as the process continues.
Site preparation will begin in early 2024, with an estimated completion date in 2026-2027* (*subject to change). This is just one more way that the County is #BuildingUp our communities. For updates on the Rose Street location and additional renderings, visit simcoe.ca/RoseStreet <<< Add Link to {Page Name}>>>.
About the County of Simcoe
County of Simcoe is composed of sixteen 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.
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CONTACTS:
Andrea Walasek
Public Relations Consultant
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
249-535-3511 (mobile)
Andrea.Walasek@simcoe.ca
Collin Matanowitsch
Manager, Public Relations
County of Simcoe, Service Simcoe Department
705-734-8386 (mobile)
Collin.Matanowitsch@simcoe.ca