In response to Council direction to study Intensification as a means of accommodated anticipated population growth, and the release of ‘The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe’, the City of Barrie is initiating an intensification strategy to encourage growth through increased residential density and mixed use development.

The Planning Department has prepared a study which recommends appropriate areas and policies to guide intensification initiatives through-out the City.  The strategy, approved in principle by Council on November 3, 2008, establishes four (4) principle areas where intensification is promoted:

·    The Urban Growth Centre (UGC) comprised of the historic neighbourhoods of downtown Barrie and Allandale Centre;

·    Intensification Corridors consisting of arterial roads radiating from the UGC to Hwy. No. 400;

·    Intensification Nodes at significant intersections along the designated corridors; and

·    The Major Transit Station Area designated by the GO train station at Yonge St. and Mapleview Ave.

A more dense population can better support neighbourhood facilities in locations that encourage walking and are easily accessible by transit.  Reducing our reliance on automobiles benefits the environment, and will ultimately create a more social and cooperative atmosphere for residents.  The importance of good urban design and minimizing impacts on existing neighbourhoods is key to the success of intensification projects.

Links to the Intensification Study (April 2009) that will be presented to City Council on May 4, 2009, as well as the Presentation to City Council made on October 28, 2008 can be found below.

Intensification Study April 2009