Barrie’s Bayview Drive: What’s complete and what’s next for the lengthy road revamp

Here’s what’s complete and what’s next for the lengthy road revamp on Barrie’s Bayview Drive.

If you have driven in the south end of Barrie over the last year, you’re very aware of the road work happening along a stretch of Bayview Drive between Big Bay Point Road and Little Avenue, and while the reconstruction project is moving forward, it’s far from over.

The City says significant progress has been made to date, with subsurface work now complete, including the replacement of the water main, installation of a new storm sewer, and crossing culverts.

The project will include widening the road from two lanes to three, including a centre turning lane, plus cycle lanes on both sides and a sidewalk on the west side.

Motorists can expect to continue one-way southbound access along Bayview Drive until two lanes can “safely be opened,” the City noted, though no specific timeline was provided.

Businesses along this stretch have remained open, with access maintained to all parking lots and Mollard Court. Barrie Transit routes and schedules have been amended to avoid this stretch of Bayview due to the northbound road closure.

The project, which began last summer, is part of the City’s plan to accommodate growth and improve traffic flow.

Mayor Alex Nuttall held a press conference on Thursday highlighting the $100 million invested this year in infrastructure improvements, road construction and repaving.

“In 2025, we’re undertaking 27 construction projects, as well as paving 42 kilometres of roadway. With every project completed, we’re laying the foundation for a more vibrant, accessible, and thriving community,” Nuttall stated.

Officials expect most of the construction to be done by the fall, with final paving of Bayview scheduled for spring 2026.