The City of Barrie and Lakehead University have partnered to invest in Barrie’s future as an educational and innovation hub and a home for technical and research excellence.
In December 2024, City Council adopted a motion (see file #24-G-252 on the December 4, 2024 Council agenda) regarding a Lakehead University STEM Hub Investment in Barrie, which directed that space at the Transit Terminal located at 24 Maple Avenue be renovated to support the creation of the Lakehead University Barrie STEM Hub. This partnership is the first phase to fulfill the City’s long-held goal of establishing a local university presence to serve the growing community of Barrie.
Since receiving Council’s initial direction, City staff have collaborated closely with institutional partners to refine the project scope—ensuring alignment with both academic priorities and community needs. Through this process, Lakehead University identified a requirement for additional space to meet its academic programming standards. A secondary site for the STEM Hub at 5 Ross Street was announced on January 28, 2026. When paired with the first floor of 24 Maple Avenue, this approach will create a multi-site STEM Hub.
The Lakehead University Barrie STEM Hub will be 27,000 square feet of lab and classroom space supporting up to 800 students in learning and innovating in collaborative workspaces alongside community and business.
Project Updates
March 31, 2026
Construction at 24 Maple Avenue continues to advance efficiently. Drywall installation is now complete, and the first coat of paint has been applied in several areas. Drop ceiling installation is well underway and nearing completion within the classrooms. Mechanical, plumbing, and connecting to the building’s electrical system has been finalized, and contractors have transitioned to installing fixtures throughout the site.
At the 5 Ross Street location, construction activities commenced in February and March, focusing on a vacant section of the building. Initial work has focused on demolition activities, including the removal of select interior partitions, ceilings, ductwork and electrical wiring to make way for the upcoming modifications to this space.
Dual-Location Model
Positioned in the heart of downtown Barrie’s vibrant waterfront, the Lakehead University Barrie STEM Hub represents a transformative investment in talent, innovation, and long-term economic growth. Designed to deliver industry-aligned education in engineering, mechatronics, and computer science, the hub features a dual-location model that strengthens both student experience and business collaboration:
- The 24 Maple Avenue site will house advanced laboratory environments across four specialized lab spaces alongside shared access to the Regional Innovation Centre—creating direct pathways between research, commercialization, and local employers.
- Just steps away, the 5 Ross Street location will provide flexible classrooms, collaborative student study areas, and dedicated research spaces that energize the downtown core and support a thriving academic community.
Together, these complementary facilities enable students to learn locally for high-demand careers while supplying industry with skilled, job-ready talent—positioning Barrie as a competitive destination for investment, innovation, and future-focused growth.
More information about available programs and registration is available at lakeheadu.ca/barrie.
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