Owen Sound is experiencing an unprecedented surge in development this year, with building activity reaching historic levels. City officials say years of careful planning and preparation are now paying off, attracting major investments and fueling growth across the community.
Construction values in Owen Sound have already reached $214.5 million year-to-date, far surpassing the previous six-year peak of $67 million in 2020. The boom reflects both the city’s strategic planning and strong developer interest in Owen Sound’s future.
Several key projects are driving the growth. On East Bayshore Road, a residential rental community of 712 units, including 267 units and an amenity building, is now under construction on the former RCA lands, developed by SkyDev. On the west side of the harbour, a multi-building rental project featuring six three-storey buildings and an amenity building is moving forward on the former Black Clausen Kennedy Factory site, led by developers Hansa/Kingsley. Meanwhile, Bayshore Terrace on 18th Street East is seeing the construction of a new 30-unit life lease building, with active site inspections underway, developed by R. Graham Construction.
The Heritage Grove Shopping Centre is also expanding, with a new FreshCo store and larger retail spaces for PetSmart, Princess Auto, Winners, and HomeSense. In addition, Rockview Apartments on 7th Avenue East is undergoing extensive restoration following fire damage in 2024.
Between July and August, the city issued 264 building permits, collected over $900,000 in permit fees, and completed 920 building inspections, underscoring the strength of Owen Sound’s construction sector.
City officials emphasized that this growth is guided by a commitment to enhancing quality of life, strengthening infrastructure, and building a sustainable, vibrant community for the future.
