Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Barrie is working on $110 million in road construction, repairs, and improvements this year. This substantial investment aims to boost road safety, reduce traffic congestion, and support the city’s growth.
Key Road Construction Projects:
Bayview Drive Transportation Improvements
- Starting July 2 and continuing until late September/early October 2024, Bayview Drive, between Little Avenue and Big Bay Point Road, will undergo significant upgrades. The project includes lane widening, infrastructure replacements, new bike lanes, and a new sidewalk. A full road closure will be in effect during this period, with the entire project expected to conclude in 2026.
Bryne Drive South Extension
- This project is nearing completion and is expected to wrap up this fall. The extension will improve traffic flow across the south end of the city and offer additional travel options in southwest Barrie.
Duckworth Street Improvements & Grove Street East Watermain
- An ongoing project that includes road reconstruction, new watermain installation, sidewalks, pavement, sewer replacements, and intersection upgrades. Grove Street East, between Cook Street and Nelson Street, will be closed from July 2 to July 26. The project is anticipated to finish by next spring.
Essa Road Interchange & Highway 400 Overpass Replacement
- Managed by the Ministry of Transportation, this project aims to enhance traffic flow in the south end, improve highway access, and create safer routes for pedestrians and cyclists. The current work, which includes lane closures, is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
Sophia Creek Owen Tributary Storm Outlet from Memorial Square
- A new project commencing this summer, focusing on the storm outlet near Meridian Place. Aligned with Barrie’s Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, this project aims to mitigate downtown flooding. Lane and pedestrian path closures will be in place during construction, expected to finish by next spring.
Sunnidale Road Bridge Replacement
- Ministry of Transportation project is slated for completion by the end of 2024.
Additional Resurfacing Efforts
In addition to the major projects, Barrie will undertake a record number of road resurfacing projects this year. These efforts are designed to prevent deterioration and avoid costly repairs in the future. For ongoing updates on these projects, residents can visit the pavement management program page.
For more detailed information on municipal infrastructure projects and to access an interactive map of the 2024 road construction projects, visit barrie.ca/roadwork.
