Community Hub

In November 2020, Springwater Council approved purchasing a 50-acre parcel from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry for $3,884,846 plus HST. The land, known as the Hasty Tract is located at 1132 Snow Valley Road and will be used for the creation of a community hub. Supported by the Bayfield Corridor Study, this strategic location offers access to Simcoe County LINX transit and is provides for future public services and development in Midhurst's downtown area.

About the Community Hub

Immediate plans for the land include:
  • New fire station
  • New recreation centre with arena
  • Library and creative space
  • Meeting and activity space
  • active and passive recreation opportunities (ie: trails and sports fields)
  • Simcoe County EMS station

Project Overview

The Township bought 50 acres of land at 1132 Snow Valley Road for community services, including a new Fire Station and Paramedic Post, and future transit access.

An engineering study and Master Plan were created with community input to shape the vision for the site.

The project moves forward with a "Stage-Gating" approach for clear project steps, ensuring Council and public input throughout the process.

Stage-Gating Process

Stage 1 - Visioning (Weston Project) - Completed

  • Develop high level community vision/master plan of space and amenities - parameters and thresholds

Stage 2 - Feasibility/Business Case

  • Functioning programming study, architectural massing for fit and form, business case (capital and operating), Class D capital cost estimate.
  • Stakeholder consultation and third party discussions.
  • Funding plan framework.

Stage 3 - Detail Design & Validate

  • Final architecture and engineering, planning consultation/processes, public validation (33% and 99%) refine business case, phasing decisions, finalized Class B cost estimate;
  • Council decision point re "proceed or adjust";
  • Funding plan launch.

Stage 4 - Construct

  • Class A costing (via Tender)
  • Evaluation and Award
  • Final construction plan review
  • Contract administration
  • Contract execution
  • Project Management to completion

Stage 5 - Commission and Operationalize

  • Building Systems
  • Staffing
  • HVAC

The project has been referred to staff for further assessment. A comprehensive report, including estimated development charges and debt financing projections for the next two to five years, is anticipated to be ready in 2025.

Background Reports

About the Fire Station

In May 2023, Springwater Council gave approval for the construction of a new Fire Station, as part of the Township's future Community Hub.

The project was authorized to retain project architect, Masri-O Inc., to oversee the contract administration and field review processes. Berkim Construction Inc. was selected as the successful proponent for the design-build phase of the project. Council approved an additional $730,065, bringing the total project budget to $8,530,065. This budget includes expenses for architectural consultants, the design-build contractor, and furnishings and security features.

The new fire station will feature a four-bay apparatus area, support and vehicle maintenance sections, administration and training spaces, and residential areas, including a day room, kitchen, fitness space, and washroom facilities.

Construction commenced in the summer of 2024 and is estimated to be completed by 2026.

About the Fire Station 

In May 2023, Springwater Council gave approval for the construction of a new Fire Station, as part of the Township's future Community Hub.

The project was authorized to retain project architect, Masri-O Inc., to oversee the contract administration and field review processes. Berkim Construction Inc. was selected as the successful proponent for the design-build phase of the project. Council approved an additional $730,065, bringing the total project budget to $8,530,065. This budget includes expenses for architectural consultants, the design-build contractor, and furnishings and security features. 

The new fire station will feature a four-bay apparatus area, support and vehicle maintenance sections, administration and training spaces, and residential areas, including a day room, kitchen, fitness space, and washroom facilities. 

Construction commenced in the summer of 2024 and is estimated to be completed by 2026.

Environmental Assessment