Thunder Bay experienced a strong year for development activity in 2025, with new figures showing a sharp increase in building permit construction value and faster approvals than the provincial standard.2025 BTB Infographic

During a presentation to the Growth Standing Committee last week, the Build Thunder Bay team highlighted the 2025 Development Report, which shows $368 million in total construction value (a 64% increase from the previous year), 1,035 building permits issued, and more than 7,600 inspections completed across the city.

A total of 377 new homes were permitted in 2025, helping to address housing supply needs across Thunder Bay. Notably, all of this growth occurred with $0 in Development Charges, reinforcing the City’s commitment to removing barriers and encouraging investment.

Through the high permit volume, Build Thunder Bay also maintained fast approval timelines. In 2025, building permit reviews were completed 47% faster than the provincial average.

Strategic investment in the city’s core areas also continued, with twelve strategic core area projects approved, leveraging over $56 million in investment.

Housing initiatives supported through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) continue to deliver results. Since 2024, 93 applications have been approved, resulting in $11.3 million in grants committed to support 602 new housing units. In addition, 15 surplus City-owned properties have been declared to help enable the creation of approximately 200 new homes.

“These results show what’s possible when we focus on streamlining processes, building growth capacity, and working collaboratively with builders and homeowners,” said Joel DePeuter, Director of Development Services. “We’re seeing real momentum, not just in permit numbers, but in the speed, scale, and quality of development happening across Thunder Bay.”

Learn more at www.buildthunderbay.ca.

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Contact:       Joel DePeuter, Director - Development Services, 807-624-8837