The City of Barrie operates five community garden locations. In 2023, Parks Planning staff initiated a project to revitalize the playground at Eastview Community Park. Planned improvements at Eastview include a new playground, pathway connections, tennis court restoration, court lighting, and a basketball half-court. Due to the scope of the improvements and the related construction, the community garden previously located at Eastview Community Park has been removed and is being permanently relocated to a new location.
Parks Planning staff developed a shortlist of potential relocation sites by auditing parkland within Ward 1 that have existing water access. The southern portion of Dunsmore Park (130 Cheltenham Road) was identified as the most suitable candidate for the garden’s relocation. The park will be close to the path entrance on Cheltenham Road.
About the Location
The new location at Dunsmore Park is approximately a 15-minute walk or a three-minute drive from the former location at Eastview Community Park and will offer:
- 16 garden plots (8 singles, 4 raised, and 4 double plots)
- Direct road and water access
- On-street parking
- Adjacency to an existing naturalized area (to be enhanced) and natural heritage feature (the Georgian Wetlands)
- A minimum 10-m setback from existing residential properties
Project Updates
October 29, 2025
Water service within the park was installed this fall, with garden plot installation scheduled to follow. Construction is planned to begin in November.
Schedule
| Stage | Timing |
|---|---|
| Design | May 2025 |
| Site Preparations | Spring–Fall 2025 |
| Anticipated Construction | November 2025–April 2026 |
| Anticipated Opening | Spring 2026 |
Public Consultation
Opportunities to share feedback on the proposed concept were offered in March 2025, including an online survey and in-person event. Visit the engagement hub at BuildingBarrie.ca/DunsmoreCommunityGarden for more details.
