There are plans for a big new project at the distinctive Five Points intersection in Barrie.
It was December 2007 when fire tore through businesses at the prominent downtown corner, but a major proposal from developer Joe Santos could see the corner rise again after sitting vacant for nearly eight years.
Santos' company, Advance Tech Developments, is proposing a 20 storey development. It includes street level shops, an above ground parking garage, an events courtyard and a 16 storey condo, with more than 200 units.
"Barrie is an urban growth centre. We are treating it as an iconic location and believe nothing but great things will come from developing this area in terms of supplying much needed business and more inhabitants in the core," says Santos.
While the height of the building is getting some mixed reaction, the prospect of 400 people living there has business owner Adam Leboeuf excited.
"Anything to bring more people downtown is a great thing," says Leboeuf, owner of Bill Leboeuf Jewellers. “The more people living downtown is great, they will have pride in the community and treat it with respect."
The developer estimates it will cost $60 million to build. The project has support from city councillor Rose Romita, who sees it as a catalyst to redevelop the downtown.
"I think more developers will come in and see the vision. It's a long time coming,” she says. “We need the condos. I understand there is going to be nine affordable housing units."
There are still several hurdles before shovels can break ground. The developer must buy an alley way currently owned by the city and the land will need to be re-zoned. Applications to the city have already been submitted.
"Currently buildings are allowed 10 storeys and the proponent is asking for 20," says Janet Foster, senior development planner for the city.
Residents will have a chance to let council know your thoughts on the proposal at a public meeting in February.
