In this week's UTPro Instant Reports sampler, we pull data on various planned developments within an 800m radius 91 Bayfield Street in Downtown Barrie, an area of that city which is at the forefront of significant urban intensification. Positioned between Highway 400 to the northwesr and Lake Simcoe to the southeast, this area highlights the changes taking place in Barrie's core. The city, which experienced a significant uptick in approved units for development in 2022 compared to the previous year, is leaning towards high-density residential options, with 67% of the approved units being multi-unit complexes and apartments. This shift towards vertical residences is reflected in the average and median storeys seen in the Instant Report. 

Map view of area surrounding 91 Bayfield Street, image from UTPro Instant Report

With 14 projects in the pipeline — 12 in pre-construction and 2 under construction — Barrie's downtown is poised to redefine its urban landscape. The report does not list any recently completed projects. There are a total of 3,053 dwellings in development, with a significant portion comprising 1-bedroom units, likely attracting young professionals. The towers reach a maximum height of 139m, and an average height of 60.3m, indicative of a city ascending to new urban heights.

Summary of proposals for the area surrounding 91 Bayfield Street, image from UTPro Instant Report

Debut Waterfront Residences is a construction project that underscores Barrie's urban trajectory. Under construction at 55 Dunlop Street West, this residential and commercial endeavour will offer 272 condominium units. It is set to enhance the city's waterfront appeal significantly. Designed by Oleson Worland Architects for Gary Silverberg, with Scott Shields Architects the architect on record, the project's dual 33-storey towers will offer residents views of Lake Simcoe and provide a boost to the downtown economy through not just new residents, but new retail opportunities as well. 

Looking west to the construction of Debut Waterfront Residences, image by UrbanToronto Forum contributor RandomBusGuy

Looking ahead, SmartCentres REIT and Greenwin have a major planned development at the forefront of this urban change. A collaborative effort between the two developers, Barrie Lakeshore Developments is set to revitalize a significant stretch of land along Barrie's waterfront with 1,842 new residential units. Designed by Turner Fleischer Architects, the development's four buildings, ranging from 25 to 45 storeys in height, with the tallest reaching 139m, is set to offer a mix of hotel accommodations, market-rate rentals, and retail spaces, reflecting the city's drive for intensification.

An aerial view of Barrie Lakeshore Developments, designed by Turner Fleischer Architects for SmartCentres REIT and Greenwin

The report's statistics showcase Barrie's growth, boasting a residential Gross Floor Area (GFA) of 162,237m², an average Floor Space Index (FSI) per project of 5.83, and a notable median height of 62.87m. The developments range from mid-rise to high-rise, with a median of 23 storeys, illustrating a city that is expanding its physical footprint.

GFA breakdown for the area surrounding 91 Bayfield Street, image from UTPro Instant Report

The emphasis on pedestrian-friendly spaces and the integration of natural elements into urban design reflect a city balancing progress with preservation. As Barrie continues to welcome new developments, the statistics from the report depict a region undergoing a dynamic transition. The area around 91 Bayfield Street is set to become a denser, more diverse urban environment.

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As UrbanToronto continues to refine its role in the GTA development industry, our data services have evolved to become one of our defining elements and we want to share those capabilities with our community. The UrbanToronto Pro Instant Reports is just one of the ways our data can be applied to provide quick and convenient insights on the development trends of any area in the GTA, with filters for Wards MLS Zones, and Custom Areas.