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County approves affordable housing development in Wasaga Beach

August 21, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

The County of Simcoe is taking the next step to deliver more affordable housing in Wasaga Beach, with county council approving the advancement of planning approvals and detailed work design for the proposed Zoo Park Phase 2 Affordable Housing Development.

Building on the success of the existing 99-unit Simcoe County Housing Corporation development at 175 Zoo Park Road, the proposed project would add new affordable housing opportunities for seniors and individuals while supporting the county’s long-term commitment to increasing housing supply across the region.

The proposed development includes a six-storey mixed-income building containing a total of 155 residential units. By maximizing the site’s potential, the proposed design would create additional affordable housing while incorporating County Social and Community Services space and a range of resident-focused amenities.

The additional units are meant to meet affordable housing needs in the area, in cooperation with the town to ensure neighbourhood compatibility and function. Staff are proceeding with council direction and will continue to evaluate council’s feedback to potentially add a few smaller studio units and enhance all-ages outdoor space.

With council approval, county staff will now proceed with the planning, engineering and design work required to advance the project to a permit-ready stage. Staff will also continue to work with the Town of Wasaga Beach on the transfer of lands to the Simcoe County Housing Corporation, explore funding opportunities, and evaluate partnership options that could support the project’s long-term financial sustainability.

Subject to future funding approvals and Council authorization, construction could begin as early as 2028, with occupancy targeted for 2030.

The Zoo Park Phase 2 project forms part of the County’s Long-Term Affordable Housing Strategy and supports the goals of the Building Up Simcoe County – Our Community Blueprint for Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention strategy by increasing access to affordable housing for residents. 

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