The City of Barrie announced it is investing $7.5 million in Georgian College’s new downtown location, a move that’s expected to revitalize the city’s core and support economic growth. The College says the new hub will welcome up to 1,000 students and focus on high-demand programs like design, emerging technologies, and entrepreneurship. Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall made the funding announcement Tuesday while delivering his 2026 budget directions to city staff. According to the mayor, one per cent from an existing two per cent capital levy would be reallocated and used for new projects that involve partnerships between different levels of government, starting in 2027, with Georgian College as the first recipient. “This is about ensuring taxpayers get maximum value for their dollars,” Nuttall said. Georgian College President Kevin Weaver called the downtown development a “monumental step forward” for the institution and the community. “Our new downtown location will offer cutting-edge facilities, strengthen our connection to the city, and provide students with immersive, real-world learning opportunities,” Weaver added. “This is an investment in our city’s future,” the mayor noted. “Georgian’s new location will be a cornerstone of downtown revitalization, attract new faces and energy, and fuel long-term growth in our downtown core.” Along with the city’s investment, the College said the project would be funded through one-time capital reserves and fundraising efforts. Students are expected to fill the halls of the new hub by September 2026.
