OPINION: Barrie, Innisfil 'carefully' managing growth

The following opinion piece was authored by John Hagan, P.Eng., who is chair of the ACEC-Ontario Simcoe Chapter.

Across Ontario, municipalities are trying to find ways in which they can address the housing supply crisis.

Here in Simcoe County, Barrie and Innisfil are being recognized for their leadership in creating a variety of housing options in order to meet the needs of their rapidly growing communities.

Recently, Barrie received over $31 million in funding from both the provincial and federal governments to help the city to do even more.

Innisfil, meanwhile, received provincial funding for exceeding its housing target by 160 per cent in 2023 and received $2.5M from the Ontario government.

This success in building more homes is thanks to the vision of Barrie’s city council and Innisfil’s town council.

Indeed, both councils have shown how municipalities can effectively manage unprecedented growth carefully, sustainably and in alignment with their strategic plans.

Although housing is essential to a community, it is only one tile in the mosaic. A house, stripped of infrastructure and conveniences, is only a shelter.

What truly sustains thriving communities are the lifelines of infrastructure: roads to connect us, electricity and water flowing freely, sanitation, schools for our children, and hospitals safeguarding our health.

It's the arrangement of these elements that knits livable communities together. When designed well, they foster economic activity and the well-being of its citizens, and for several generations to come.

Behind the scenes, these elements are not just civic visions; they are the designs of consulting engineers who work tirelessly to ensure our society thrives.

Infrastructure projects like the Innisfil Beach Road (County Road 21) widening improve connectivity and traffic flow while incorporating water and sewer utility components. The Mapleview Drive Reconstruction, a key transportation corridor, will continue to see several improvements to accommodate Barrie's growth through 2031.

But it’s not just about roads and utilities. It's also about projects that bring communities together, such as the New Haven for Youth Haven, a place where all youth will feel safe.

These investments made by Barrie and Innisfil go beyond mere structures; they signify a commitment to fostering vibrant communities and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

We commend the visionary leadership of local consulting engineering firms for their contributions to the growth and resilience of these communities.

With optimism, we look forward to a future brimming with vitality, standing alongside these firms as partners in progress.