Terminals Point Project

• Terminals Point Public Spaces Redevelopment: Public Information & Engagement Session, November 27, 2024 at Simcoe Street Theatre.
• Farmer's Market Terminals Point Update and Information, August 17, 2024.
• Council approval for the Town project team to execute the Definitive Documents with Streetcar & Dream (Grain Terminals Revitalization Inc.), June 17, 2024.
• Presentation at the Simcoe Street Theatre sponsored by the Collingwood Museum and open to the public, March 19, 2024. Presentation includes the history of the Terminals up to the current project status.
• Presentation to the Collingwood & District Historical Society, March 4, 2024. Presentation includes the history of the Terminals up to current project status. 
• Town of Collingwood with Streetcar & Dream are working collaboratively on the creation of the Definitive Documents, January thru June, 2024.

• Project name, 'Terminals Point', announced November 15, 2023
• Survey to rename this unique area - survey closed October 20th
• Farmers' Market Information Booth - Saturday, August 26th & Saturday, October 7th, 2023
• Public engagement on plans and possible designs to begin in Fall
• Council approves staff to enter into the MOU with Streetcar & Dream to inform future negotiations
• Memorandum of Understanding presented to Council for consideration
• Streetcar & Dream unveil vision for the Terminals and surrounding public areas

• Staff directed to report back on Agreement/MOU for Council's consideration
• Streetcar & Dream Unlimited Corp. chosen as highest ranked proponent
• Issue RFP for the project
• 3 proponents short listed 
• Call to interested parties for the Collingwood Grain Terminals Revitalization Project 
• Project guiding principles approved
• RFP awarded to KPMG Consulting as Partner
• Issue RFP for Grain Terminals Revitalization Partner

• Built Heritage Assessment completed
• RFP issued for Grain Terminals Revitalization Partner

• Built Heritage Assessment 
• 3 phases of community consultation

• Grain Terminal White Paper

05 Nov 2024

The Town of Collingwood invites you to participate in a public session to review the current concept design for the redevelopment of the Terminals Point public spaces and marina. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., at the Simcoe Street Theatre. This is an exciting opportunity to see how the concept design is evolving, and to provide your feedback.

In-Person Meeting Details

Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Time: 6:00 p.m.: Doors open

6:15-6:45 p.m.: Presentation

6:45-8:00 p.m.: Discussion, questions, feedback & interaction

Location: Simcoe Street Theatre, 65 Simcoe St Studio 7, Collingwood, ON L9Y 1H7

The focus of the meeting will be on the concept design for the public lands, including park spaces and the public marina. The concept design was drafted during the developer competition and aligns with the recommendations outlined in the Waterfront Master Plan. The Town’s consulting landscape architect will present an overview of the concept, and project representatives will be available to answer questions and gather your input.

Following the presentation, visual boards will be on display for public review and feedback.

Virtual Participation

For those unable to attend in person, a recorded presentation and an online survey will be available on the Terminals Point Engage Page following the public meeting. The deadline for completing the survey is Wednesday, December 11, at 4:00 p.m. Hard copies of the survey will be available at Town Hall, 97 Hurontario Street. Your feedback is important to us, and we encourage all residents to engage either in-person or online.

Please note that these meetings are focused on public lands, including the public spaces and marina. A separate meeting will be scheduled to discuss plans for private lands within the project area.

We look forward to hearing your thoughts and working together to create a vibrant and inviting public waterfront space!

14 Jun 2024 

At the Monday, June 17, 2024 Council Meeting, Staff Report CCS 2024–05 Terminals Point Definitive Documents will be presented to Council which asks that Council direct Staff to execute the contractual agreements with Streetcar & Dream (Grain Terminals Revitalization Inc.) on behalf of the municipality.

The approval of this staff report represents the crucial next step in bringing to life the Terminal Points Project as set out in the engagement plans and priorities established by Council and the community during the initial planning phases. The Definitive Documents, as they are known, provide the legal framework for all aspects of the collaboration between the Town and Streetcar & Dream, (Grain Terminals Revitalization Inc.). These agreements are based on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and are the product of a thoroughly collaborative process.

Pending Council approval to proceed with the execution of the Definitive Documents, we are ready to proceed with the next phases of the project. This will include due diligence in planning and engineering, extensive detailed design refinements, and multiple phases of community outreach, engagement and consultation.

15 Nov 2023

Image

The Public has spoken! With over 1500 survey responses the new project name, ‘Terminals Point’, will replace the lengthy former name, “The Collingwood Grain Terminals Revitalization Project.”

The project is getting a new name to highlight that this is not just the revitalization of the Grain Terminals but the reimagination and invigoration of the Spit as a whole, introducing new and exciting public spaces while enhancing the existing amenities. This rebranding also highlights the partnership between the Town and Streetcar & Dream, while respecting community values.

Terminals Point seamlessly aligns with the well-established nomenclature of Lighthouse Point and Sunset Point Beach along Collingwood's shoreline. This name fuses historical importance, the iconic Terminals building, and the stunning scenery of Georgian Bay. It encapsulates the essence of Collingwood, offering a window into its history while embracing a promising future. By designating this area as a Point, where land and water converge, it becomes a community and cultural focal point, and a destination that beckons all to explore and enjoy the unique blend of heritage, innovation, and natural beauty that Collingwood proudly offers.

One of Council and Staff’s paramount goals is to foster active community engagement throughout every phase of this extensive journey.

To learn more about the project, subscribe to receive updates on the project's Engage Page.

10 Oct 2023

Image

'The Collingwood Grain Terminals Revitalization Project' is getting a new name to highlight that this is not just the revitalization of the Grain Terminals but the reimagination and invigoration of the 'Spit' as a whole, introducing new and exciting public spaces while enhancing the existing amenities. This rebranding also highlights the partnership between the Town and Streetcar & Dream while respecting community values.

One of Council and Staff’s paramount goals is to foster active community engagement throughout every phase of this extensive journey.

“We recognize that the Collingwood Grain Terminals and Spit are integral parts of the community’s identity,” says Amanda Pegg, Executive Director, Customer & Corporate Services. “The team is dedicated to involving residents, businesses, and stakeholders in the decision-making process. It is important that all voices be heard and considered in shaping the future of this cherished area, ensuring that it continues to be a source of pride and connection for all.”

Residents can cast their vote on one of the following 4 shortlisted options:

• The Portlands - ‘The Portlands’ connects past to present and fostering a sense of pride among residents and visitors alike. With stunning waterfront views, a serene atmosphere, and endless recreational opportunities, the area along Heritage Drive is a natural gathering place. Naming it ‘The Portlands’ highlights its potential as a vibrant community space where people can relax, gather, and bask in the breathtaking scenery of Georgian Bay, without specifically highlighting only one element found here. ‘The Portlands’ name encapsulates the idea that this is a place where both history and the future come together to offer a unique and enriching experience for everyone.
• Terminals Point - ‘Terminals Point’ seamlessly aligns with the well-established nomenclature of Lighthouse Point and Sunset Point Beach along Collingwood's shoreline. This name fuses historical importance, the iconic Terminals building, and the stunning scenery of Georgian Bay. It encapsulates the essence of Collingwood, offering a window into its history while embracing a promising future. By designating this area as a Point, where land and water converge, it becomes a community and cultural focal point, and a destination that beckons all to explore and enjoy the unique blend of heritage, innovation, and natural beauty that Collingwood proudly offers.
• The Harbourlands - Since 2000, 'Harbourlands' has become a cherished term in Collingwood. Harbourlands Park, situated along Heritage Drive, was conceived as a haven for leisure, offering breathtaking views of Georgian Bay and Collingwood's iconic skyline. Expanding 'The Harbourlands' to encompass the entirety of Heritage Drive is a way to honour the name's established legacy over the past 23 years, signifying our commitment to celebrate its rich history while eagerly anticipating an exciting future.
• The Spit - For decades, this area of Collingwood has been affectionately referred to by Collingwood residents as ‘The Spit’. A spit is a narrow coastal land formation that is tied to a coast at one end. As Heritage Drive moves into a new era of development and innovation, we have the opportunity to design ‘The Spit’ in a way that beautifully represents the heritage, legacy, and future of Collingwood and its vibrant community. ‘The Spit’ will serve as a symbol of the town's rich history and the enduring spirit that pushes us into an exciting future.

Voting is open until October 20, 2023.

Cast Your Vote!

21 Jun 2023

At the June 19th, 2023, meeting, Council approved the execution of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the Grain Terminals Revitalization Project. Staff will now proceed with the next phases of the project. This will include planning for initial community engagement and consultation with an intention of beginning active engagement in 2023. In addition, the proponent and the Town will begin to negotiate and complete the required binding agreements. Additional investigative work on the Terminals and the surrounding lands will commence, as appropriate and will support the required land use planning applications to facilitate the redevelopment. Public input and the findings from the additional investigative work will be critical in informing the design of the final concept for the lands, which will be subject to Council decisions under the Planning Act.

As we move forward to determine the plans for the Terminals and the surrounding public lands, we will ensure the consultation plan creates opportunities to hear and balance all perspectives.

An Information Booth for the Grain Terminals Revitalization will be set up at the Collingwood Farmers’ Market on Saturday, August 26, 2023.

• Update on Community Engagement – March 27, 2023 Council Meeting

01 Jun 2023

At the June 5th, 2023, meeting, the Committee of the Whole will receive Staff Report CCS2023-03 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – Grain Terminals Revitalization Project, seeking direction for staff to execute the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Streetcar & Dream (Grain Terminals Revitalization Inc.)

"The partnership between the Town, Streetcar & Dream opens the door for us to do more for the community," says Amanda Pegg, Executive Director, Customer & Corporate Services. "It achieves the three critical goals including: Ensuring the Town maintains ownership of the majority of the lands, it gives the Town authority to set expectations and brings greater value for taxpayers' dollars as it leverages private investment to upgrade and enhance public spaces and meet community needs."

Town Staff have been working with Streetcar & Dream in a collaborative manner to protect the Town and public interest and ensure the Guiding Principles remain at the forefront of the negotiation process.

Although the MOU in its entirety remains confidential, through mutual agreement, the Town and the proponent have agreed to release specific business terms that the parties deem are of high interest and importance to the community. The MOU is a nonbinding document that will provide a foundation for future negotiations of the binding Agreements.

Pending Council approval to proceed with the execution of the MOU, Town Staff will proceed with the next phases of the project. This will include planning for initial community engagement and consultation with an intention of beginning active engagement in 2023. In addition, the proponent and the Town will begin to negotiate and complete the required binding agreements. Additional investigative work on the Terminals and the surrounding lands will commence, as appropriate and will support the required land use planning applications to facilitate the redevelopment. Public input and the findings from the additional investigative work will be critical in informing the design of the final concept for the lands, which will be subject to Council decisions under the Planning Act.
Key Points:

• The MOU includes the sale of a surface area of approximately 0.2 acres of the spit lands by the Town to the proponent. This land sale would accommodate the proposed residential development.
• The remaining spit lands (approximately 19.8 acres) would remain under the ownership of the Town.
• The MOU includes a long term (life lease) land lease of an approximate 0.8 acres by the Town to the proponent. This land lease would accommodate the revitalization of the silos to create the hotel and other public amenities contained within.
• The Town’s financial commitment to the project is based on the amounts included in the Town’s Ten-Year Capital Plan. The Present Value of the costs to the Town (discounted at 5% to 2022 dollars - at time of proposal submission) is $15,055,777.
• The MOU highlights the significant value that the public engagement and consultation process has on the overall project vision for the public areas. The MOU ensures commitment from both the Town and the proponent to ensure a robust and meaningful process. Both the Town and the proponent will lead components of this engagement. The Town will have leadership over the public space engagements.

The Staff Report will be presented to the Committee of the Whole at their June 5th meeting, then will proceed to Council June 19th. View Staff Report: CCS2023-03 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – Grain Terminals Revitalization Project
 

To contact members of Council with comments or concerns, please visit the Council page for contact information: https://www.collingwood.ca/council

27 Mar 2023

Image

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.

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:

• Collingwood Grain Terminals Revitalization Concept/Vision Unveiling - Streetcar Developments Inc. & Dream Unlimited Corp.
• Update on Community Engagement

20 Mar 2023

On Monday, March 27 at 5:00 p.m., Streetcar Developments Inc. & Dream Unlimited Corp. will present their vision for the Grain Terminals in Council Chambers. Stream the meeting live on the Town's YouTube channel

Q: I’m encouraged to see that ensuring public access to the waterfront and amenities are paramount in this redevelopment project. It is important to recognize and plan for the fact that residents and visitors need to access this area by automobile. Redevelopment plans need to include a big increase in the number of parking spots. Are elevated parking structures being considered in addition to below ground and single level surface parking for the public? kimtr asked.

Thank you for your question. Yes, the need to increase the number of parking spots has been identified. In our News Feed there is a post from March 27th, 2023 labelled "Grain Terminals Vision Unveiled", which includes a presentation. This presentation shows were additional surface and underground parking is being considered, but not elevated parking structures.

Please note that this presentation does not represent the final design. The final design may be impacted by additional consultation & engagement, further site investigations, and the statutory approval processes. 

Q: Any further updates re progress from council or Streetcar? Kerry Baskey Kerry Baskey asked.

Council has directed staff to prepare a by-law for Council's public consideration to authorize the approval of the Terminals Point Definitive Documents, (agreements). Council has also directed staff to proceed to public engagement and consultation pending approval of the by-law. We hope to provide a further update on the status of the project by mid-June.

Q: I thought Collingwood restricted buildings to 6 stories. The plans for the Terminals is well about that level. What's the scoop? 18home72@gmail.com asked.

The Town’s Zoning By-law regulates the maximum permitted heights of buildings in the Town of Collingwood – the permitted height of any given building is based on the zoning for that property.

The Town’s new Official Plan recently adopted by Council (but not yet approved by the County of Simcoe) contains policies related to low-, mid-, and high-rise buildings that, if approved by the County, would be implemented through a new Zoning By-law, which the Town is initiating work on this year. 

Existing buildings constructed prior to the current Zoning By-law coming into effect (April 12, 2010) would be considered non-conforming. 

Should someone wish to construct a building that exceeds the maximum permitted height on a property, they can apply for a Zoning By-law Amendment, which is subject to public consultation as required for under the Planning Act. Council is the approval authority for Zoning By-law Amendments.

Regarding the Grain Terminals, the existing structure surpasses 6 stories. The final design of the project is pending, but the proposed height exceeds the 6 stories. This project will be subject to the same Private Approvals process, and policies, as any other project would be within the Town of Collingwood.

Q: Good day I’d like to know what is to happen to the personal bricks that were purchased to line part of the walk way near the water? I have 2 personalized bricks that if they are to be removed, I wish to have them back Melissa Townes asked.

The detailed design for the project is not yet finalized for the trail system. If the design evolves to the point where existing commemorative features are disturbed, they will either be returned or incorporated into the new design.

Q: How does this project fall under the 4 storey building height limit and how will the already busy road leading to the terminals be handled with increased residential traffic? Laura asked.

Laura,

Thank you for your inquiry and interest in the Grain Terminals Revitalization Project.  The existing structure does currently exceed four stories. This development will be subject to all the mandatory planning processes and approvals, which include heights considerations.

Regarding the road, we recognize that these improvements will result in more traffic to this area. This is something that will be investigated further and addressed in the planning and detailed design stage of the project that will take place over the next two years.

Q: Would the name “Harbor Place” be considered for the new revitalized Terminals ? Has a more modern sound and is not a duplicate of a Toronto name or an existing condo development in Collingwood Craigleith Michael asked.

Hi Michael,

Thank you for the interest in the Grain Terminals Revitalization Project and for taking the time to provide your thoughts on the proposed new project names.

The four options provided in the survey are based on extensive research, including the history of the site. The survey does provide a high-level description/reasoning behind the proposed names, please see those for additional information about why these four options were chosen.  The selected name (through this community survey) would simply replace the project name “Grain Terminals Revitalization Project” to ensure the project title speaks to the many public space improvements that will be part of the development.  The project name will not automatically name the final development or the lands.   

Q: How tall is the terminal Neil asked.

The very top of the Grain Terminals Shipping Tower (the highest point) is currently approximately 200 feet above grade.

Q: The concept is exciting! Has any thought been given to planning for the opportunity for the cruise ships to stop in Collingwood? There seems to be a couple of companies that offer Great Lake Tours. Susan asked.

Thank you for your positive feedback and insightful suggestions! An extensive public consultation will take place in 2023 and we encourage you to participate!

Q: THis is an exciting proposal. I'm personally very happy that a long disused white elephant will (might?) see a useful future. I felt there was an important element missing from the presentation to Council: namely details on ownership. I see from the reply below that that is coming soon in the MOU. I feel that was an important element missing from the presentation, and should be discussed publicly before getting set in concrete. I sincerely hope that Streetcar takes complete ownership of the Terminals, but not Millenium Park or Heritage way. I'd gladly let them have it for $1, provided that they assume all future liability for the structure, and that the Town is properly protected with a surety in the event that the project ever falls into financial collapse. John Megarry asked.

Thank you for your positive feedback. There will be additional information forthcoming on the proposed ownership structure for the Terminals once the MOU has been endorsed by Council. The MOU is anticipated to be presented to Committee/Council in June 2023.

Q: Just wondering what the plan will be for the public boat launch during all of these proposed renovations? There is already a short season with very limited parking for day launch users. The launch at cranberry is nowhere near sufficient enough (zero parking) to be used as an alternative. Kelly Botting asked.

Thank you for your interest. The Town and the Developer will be coordinating access to the spit for stakeholders and the public as the design and construction planning proceeds. Certainly there will be times throughout the construction phases when access may be restricted, however best efforts will be made to respect the seasonal uses to the extent possible.

Q: Did I read that the condo tower was to be 28 stories? How is this appropriate for the area? I fear this will be yet another development that benefits the developer and ruins the local population's current enjoyment of the waterfront, including the swimming area. Terri McDougall asked.

Thank you for your question. The proposed residential component is approximately 7 storeys taller than the existing Shipping Tower. The configuration and height of the proposed development will be subject to planning and land use approvals. A fundamental requirement of the development is that public access to the waterfront and amenities is paramount.  

Q: What are you doing for parking? Tim McNabb asked.

Thank you for your interest. The conceptual design proposes a combination of below ground and surface parking to support private and public interests. More details regarding parking will be available as the design detail progresses as it will be informed through the public consultation process.

Q: Plans so far look fantastic! It would be great if we could consider having WeWork manage the event space on floor 10 and the Marine Tower so small businesses and entrepreneurs can have a hub + affordable and flexible workspace in the region! WeWork often collaborates with landlords of historic buildings, whoever that will be. CamStory asked.

Thank you for your positive feedback and insightful suggestion! An extensive public consultation will be taking place in Summer 2023 and we encourage you to participate!

Q: is there pedestrian transport planned? a elevated enclosed gondola style would seem to befit this project. don asked.

Automated pedestrian transport is not currently included in the concept design. An extensive community engagement process is forthcoming where these types of great ideas will be collected.

Q: Who will own the Hotel? Is this being built and paid for my the town and the put up for sale or does streetcar build and own it…? Who owns the condo tower (is it streetcar development who will build and sell the condo as they would any other condo development)? Will the planning phase determine ultimate size of the condo tower component or is 8 stories approved and set in stone? Thank you Mboyer1960 asked.

This information is currently subject to confidentiality requirements pending finalization of the MOU. Further details will follow. 

The height of the residential tower proposed is subject to Planning approvals.

Q: Would be great to see some of the space atop the silos reserved for entrepreneurship, technology, and co working space. We need more innovators visiting and building their businesses in the Georgian Bay region! Seems like a great opportunity to atleast attract tech conferences / retreats from the Toronto and Waterloo areas to Collingwood. CamStory asked.

Thank you for your insightful comments! An extensive public consultation will be taking place and we encourage you to participate! More details are to be announced on the Engage page soon!

Q: Would love to see the Town of Collingwood develop their waterfront area similar to the Blue Mountain village area - restaurants, pubs, and shops surrounding a central stage btyssen asked.

The Town is currently proceeding with an open market competition encouraging developers to bring forward their vision for the project. As part of this process, Council has directed that the Terminals landmark is to remain on the spit in some form. This is not intended to be overly restrictive on the visioning process but does set an expectation that the cultural heritage values of Collingwood’s industrial waterfront is respected.

Q: When I walk out to Millennium Park I am struck by the incredible views of the Bay and escarpment. These views rival the best views of the Blue Mountain Village. If Collingwood could take the grain terminals down, surely the land could be utilized to bring even more tourists to the area. Possibilities: stage and central square shopping and restaurants similar to BMV, boat shuttles to Thornbury and Meaford (parallel to Georgian Trail), bay boat rides, ferris wheel with incredible views, historical museum or walking story boards highlighting the history of Collingwood - indigenous heritage, shipyards, grain terminals, attractions to bring people in with the spin-off benefit of bringing people to downtown Collingwood. Give the developers full creative freedom and a clean page with the Grain Terminals removed and ability to include the park. Who can I talk with to discuss more detail? Thanks btyssen asked.

Thank you for your thoughts on opportunities for the future of the Terminals, Millennium Park and Heritage Drive. You are quite correct that the vista from Millennium Park and various vantage points along the spit are incredible.

The Town is currently proceeding with an open market competition encouraging developers to bring forward their vision for the project. As part of this process, Council has directed that the Terminals landmark is to remain on the spit in some form. This is not intended to be overly restrictive on the visioning process but does set an expectation that the cultural heritage values of Collingwood’s industrial waterfront is respected.

 As the vision unfolds, there will be further opportunities for public engagement. We expect that the final proposals will be received and evaluated against the stated project objectives by August of 2022.

 Continue to monitor this Engage Collingwood page for regular updates on the project.