Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Barrie is working on a Community Design Plan (CDP) to help shape the future development of Bayfield Street and its nearby areas as the city keeps expanding.
This Bayfield Street CDP aims to create guidelines for growth and redevelopment along the corridor, which stretches from Sophia Street to Barrie’s northern edge. The plan will influence land use, building designs, and community aesthetics at both the neighbourhood and corridor levels, in accordance with Barrie’s Official Plan 2051.
City officials emphasize that public input is crucial to this process. They are encouraging residents, business owners, workers, and visitors to share their thoughts to guide the direction of the plan.
As part of this outreach effort, the city will hold a Community Vision Workshop from 5 to 8 p. m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026, at the East Bayfield Community Centre located at 80 Livingstone St. E. This drop-in event will provide updates on the project, showcase work completed so far, outline next steps, and allow attendees to give feedback while discussing ideas for the corridor’s vision.
An online survey is currently available for gathering public input and identifying key issues and concerns that need addressing in the CDP. The survey will be open until Feb. 26, 2026, at Building Barrie. ca/Bayfield CDP.
City staff will also be present during Winterfest at Centennial Park on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 12 to 2 p. m., where they can discuss the project and answer any questions.
As part of developing the CDP, the city conducted a commercial market study in 2025 that included consultations with property owners along Bayfield Street. This study looked into how commercial uses could be preserved and improved as Barrie grows.
The study evaluated future needs for retail space and services while exploring ways for this car-centric corridor to transform into a more walkable area that combines housing with shopping options.
Key findings highlighted several challenges and possibilities such as current designs focused mainly on cars instead of transit users or pedestrians; limited support for cycling; constraints from parking requirements; and existing lease agreements. It also noted that buildings designed for mixed-use with commercial space on lower floors can be pricier to build and rent out.
At the same time, larger properties with significant surface parking were identified as potential sites for gradual redevelopment into mixed-use spaces featuring commercial businesses below residential units or multiple buildings serving different purposes on one site. This could help establish a more connected and lively corridor while maintaining Bayfield Street’s role as a prime shopping area.
By 2051, population growth in Barrie and its surroundings is projected to exceed 140,000 people which will drive up demand for commercial spaces. Recommendations for further exploration in this project phase include keeping a balance of large retail chains alongside smaller shops; allowing both single-purpose developments as well as mixed-use ones based on site conditions; plus considering incentives or support systems aimed at improving financial feasibility for mixed-use projects.
The second phase of the CDP will concentrate on envisioning how this corridor should look and function moving forward. This work will take place over several stages including multiple opportunities for engagement with stakeholders along with community members.
A Draft Background Review and Vision Report has been released marking an important step in this process. The report provides an overview of current conditions within the corridor highlighting opportunities alongside challenges while presenting an initial long-term vision for Bayfield Street along with preliminary “big moves” meant to guide growth strategies mobility improvements together with placemaking efforts.
For more information visit Building Barrie. ca/Bayfield CDP.
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