Lakehead University to Open Downtown Barrie Campus: STEM Hub to Address Labor Gaps, Drive Innovation

Lakehead University is coming to Downtown Barrie in the fall of 2026. Last week, during the General Committee Meeting at Barrie City Hall, representatives from the City and the university presented their plans.

Deepak Biwai – Local Journalism Initiative

The new STEM-focused campus will offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in electrical engineering, mechatronics, computer science, and software engineering. This initiative aims to address critical labor force needs, stimulate innovation, and enhance educational opportunities.

The campus will be located at a repurposed transit terminal in downtown Barrie, featuring modular builds for labs, classrooms, and research spaces. It is projected to host up to 800 students within five years, starting with approximately 200 in its first year.

Several councillors raised concerns about the potential impact of students on Barrie's already severe housing crisis. In response, the university plans to explore innovative housing solutions, such as app-based matching for homeowners with available space, and to engage with the private sector to develop dedicated student housing.

A total of $6.5 million from the city’s market precinct funds has been redirected to this project, with an additional $1 million in provincial funding allocated to address student housing needs.

During the meeting, the council also bid farewell to the General Manager of Community and Corporate Services, Dawn McAlpine. She is retiring after 33 years of service, McAlpine was celebrated for her extensive contributions, including her legislative leadership, program implementation, and community advocacy.