Barrie Construction News staff wrtier
The City of Barrie has opened the new Allandale Transit Terminal, a $31.4-million project designed to improve transit access and strengthen connections between Simcoe County, Northern Ontario and the GTA.
The terminal, built by Matheson Constructors, was relocated from downtown to improve service efficiency and create opportunities to repurpose the former terminal site at 24 Maple Avenue.
“Relocating Barrie’s transit terminal to a more central location is a game-changer for our city,” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. “It will enhance service efficiency, improve connections to GO train service, and unlock new opportunities for downtown revitalization.”
The former downtown terminal will be redeveloped as a campus for Lakehead University’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Hub. Downtown transit service will continue through new bus stops and shelters on Maple Avenue.
The project was funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), with more than $11 million from the federal government, over $9 million from Ontario, and about $11 million from the city. The program has supported over $33 billion in infrastructure projects across the country.
The new terminal includes accessible facilities, covered bike shelters, and a public art sculpture titled Exhale. Its design reflects the historic Allandale Train Station. Future additions will include a café, solar panels on bus shelter canopies, and a new multi-use path through the site.
“The opening of the new Barrie Allandale Transit Terminal contributes to a cleaner, more affordable, better-connected community,” said Helena Jaczek, MP for Markham—Stouffville. “A stronger regional transit network means residents in Simcoe County, Northern Ontario, and the GTA can better access work, school, and essential services.”
Ontario Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria said the project is part of the province’s $70-billion transit expansion plan. “The Barrie Allandale Transit Terminal will connect commuters to local and regional transit services, helping residents of Barrie and visitors alike get where they need to go quickly, safely and affordably,” he said.