Grain Terminals Vision Unveiled
Collingwood, ON [27 March 2023] – At the Council meeting on Monday, March 27, 2023, the public got their first look at the proposed vision for the revitalization of the iconic Grain Terminals.
Streetcar Developments Inc and Dream Unlimited Corp (Streetcar and Dream) presented their vision for the Terminals and surrounding lands on Heritage Drive, Millennium Park, and the spit. Town staff also provided an overview of the comprehensive public engagement and consultation process, scheduled to commence this summer.
Some highlights from the proposal include the re-development of Heritage Drive with significant public realm enhancements and access, preservation and adaptive reuse of the Terminals including a full-service hotel, restaurant and event space, and a residential component to the east of the Terminals. The concept public realm enhancements activate the harbourfront year-round and include access to the shoreline/ water, trails, lookouts and boardwalks, public space for retail and most notably, the proposal introduces public access to the Terminal building itself in ways that were not previously possible. The current “bin floor” atop the Terminals is envisioned as a publicly accessible feature with sweeping views of Georgian Bay and the Town, including historic downtown Collingwood. The proposed design concept incorporates leading green technologies and aligns with the Town’s commitment to sustainability, while honouring the built heritage of the site.
“We are excited to partner with the Town of Collingwood to implement a visionary plan for the Spit and to stabilize the iconic Terminal building so it can remain a Collingwood landmark for decades to come,” said Les Mallins, President of Streetcar Developments.
“Our team's involvement extends well beyond the development and construction of this project. With our hotel, we become a fully aligned operating partner with the Town in perpetuity, ensuring the Spit remains an all-season attraction for the community and visitors alike. We look forward working with the community to bring this important landmark back to life.”
"Our community has waited decades to see a vision for the future of the Grain Terminals," said Mayor of Collingwood, Yvonne Hamlin. "The possibilities presented today provide a clear path to a transformative repurposing of the terminals for public and private uses. This proposal will revitalize the entire spit with improved access for boaters, cyclists, swimmers and anyone who wants to enjoy a day at the waterfront. I look forward to working with the community, Streetcar and Dream as this project moves ahead".
The recording of the presentation and Council meeting is available on the Town’s YouTube Channel.
The next step in this historical re-development is the finalization of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Public engagement will ensue, scheduled to begin in summer 2023.
Presentations - March 27, 2023 Council: