A new affordable-home property is coming to fruition thanks to a partnership between a long-time Barrie builder, and the city itself. The seven-storey rental building at 60 Dean Avenue will be built next to the Painswick Library and aptly named the Library Residences. Through a partnership between the City of Barrie and Pratt homes, of the 122 units to rent; 24 of the units will be offered as affordable homes. “On behalf of Pratt Homes, I’m proud to announce the Library Residences — our first purpose-built rental community in Barrie… This project reflects our commitment to building with connection, and compassion,” said Karen Pratt – Hanson, owner of Pratt Homes Barrie. The Library Residences project is on one of three surplus city-owned sites sold to create more housing. Construction is set to begin in fall 2025. The surrounding area will encompass Barrie’s first Privately Owned Public Space (POPS) — a community-designed outdoor area for residents and library visitors to enjoy. “The Library Residences is exactly the kind of housing Barrie needs well-designed and inclusive of truly affordable options” said Mayor Alex Nuttall. “This project reflects the city’s commitment to unlocking municipal land for housing and shows what’s possible when private developers and public leadership work together. I want to thank Pratt Homes for stepping up to be part of the solution,” Nuttall said.
