Major drainage work in downtown Barrie brings months of road closures

Aerial view of the Barrie waterfront and downtown.

The City of Barrie is making improvements to the underground drainage systems in the downtown area, which will mean several road closures over the coming months. The City says these closures are necessary to ensure the long-term efficiency and upkeep of the city’s infrastructure.

Simcoe Street is currently closed from Bayfield Street to Mulcaster Street and will remain closed until April 11. Despite the closure, the Lakeshore Mews and Heritage Park parking lots remain accessible by turning left off Dunlop Street onto Mulcaster Street.

All businesses in the area remain open as usual.

Owen Street will also be closed from Collier Street to Dunlop Street East starting Mon., Feb. 24, with construction work beginning the following week. The closure from north of Dunlop Street to north of Collier Street, including the full closure of the Owen and Collier intersection, will remain in place until July, the City says.

During the closure, vehicle access through Owen Street will not be possible, and detour routes will be in place using Dunlop Street, Mulcaster Street, Worsley Street, and Clapperton Street. South of Worsley, Owen Street will remain accessible up to the closure, while Collier Street will be open east of Clapperton and west of Mulcaster up to the intersection.

The City notes pedestrian access will be maintained along the west side of Owen Street between Dunlop and Collier streets, though some disruptions may occur as construction progresses. Temporary crosswalks will be set up at the west, north, and east legs of the Owen and Collier intersection to assist with foot traffic.

“While we acknowledge some short-term inconveniences, we hope you can continue to support our local businesses and work through it with them together,” the City stated in a release concerning the closures.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to continue supporting local businesses throughout the construction period.