(Barrie, ON) – As detailed in the April 2026 building report, the City has seen a significant increase in housing starts this year so far. There has been a 173 per cent increase in housing starts from January to April, 2026, compared to the same period in 2025.
In 2025, there were more than 780 total housing starts. As of April 30, there have already been 410 starts, representing more than 50 per cent of last year’s total.
In part, this increase can be attributed to the early success of two programs implemented by City Council: the Development Charges Waiver Pilot Program, and the Housing Community Improvement Plan (CIP).
The Development Charges Waiver Pilot Program, launched to accelerate new residential construction, has supported projects in advancing to construction more quickly by reducing upfront financial barriers. The Development Charges Waiver Pilot Program was applicable to new building permit applications for residential developments that are five storeys and above with a signed agreement to provide at least 20 per cent affordable housing.
The Housing Community Improvement Plan (CIP) is intended to encourage rapid investment in new housing units by providing financial incentives and other programs to facilitate the development of housing supply, with an emphasis on affordable housing, across Barrie.
The City is working to grow its housing options and increase housing supply. One of Barrie City Council’s key strategic priorities is creating an affordable place to live, which includes encouraging a range of housing options to make housing attainable.
For more information about building progress in Barrie, including access to monthly building reports, visit barrie.ca/BuildingProgress.
