The new Barrie Allandale Transit Terminal will officially open its doors in two weeks, on Sept. 21, resulting in the closure of the downtown terminal on Maple Avenue one week later. The City says the move is aimed at creating a stronger regional transit network, linking buses with GO trains, and future service expansions connecting Simcoe County, Northern Ontario, and the Greater Toronto Area. The $30 million project has been years in the making. The new transit hub, located steps from the waterfront on the corner of Essa Road and Gowan Street, will feature 10 bus bays, indoor waiting areas, and improved accessibility features to make travel more convenient for riders. The City says the existing downtown terminal, which was built decades ago, is too small and outdated to meet the demands of a growing community. The Allandale site was chosen to support regional transit and help to revitalize the surrounding area. Officials expect the new hub to reduce congestion downtown by shifting bus traffic away from Maple Avenue. On Sept. 28, the City says the downtown terminal will close its doors.
