The City of Thunder Bay is set to transform its housing landscape with an $8.64 million investment from the Province of Ontario through the Housing-Enabling Core Servicing Stream.

This critical funding will improve road and trail networks along the Central Avenue corridor, unlocking new housing opportunities while supporting safe and efficient connection to key amenities and services.

“On behalf of the City of Thunder Bay, I want to sincerely thank the Province of Ontario for this critical investment. This funding highlights the strong partnership between our city and the province, helping us address our housing challenges and unlock our city’s potential for growth,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff.   

"Thunder Bay is committed to building more homes and fostering vibrant, connected neighbourhoods. The Central Avenue corridor improvements will not only unlock vital housing opportunities but also strengthen our economy and infrastructure, ensuring safe, reliable roadways and active transportation corridors for future generations. Together, we are building a stronger and more resilient Thunder Bay for all.”

The road and trail network improvements are part of the broader Central Avenue Development Lands initiative, which will unlock the potential for over 1,260 new housing units by 2028. Located between Golf Links Road and Balmoral Street, this key development area will benefit from significant infrastructure upgrades to prepare 40 hectares (100 acres) of land for residential construction.

Key Project Highlights:

  • $10.4 million in Provincial funding through the Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund to extend water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure across the site.
  • Over 2 km of new municipal services to fully service the development area.
  • Construction to begin in 2025, with building permits available by the end of the year.
  • Completion of servicing by 2027, and completion of road corridor improvements by 2028, enabling housing development to address local demand.

“This initiative is not just about building homes,” added Mayor Boshcoff. “It’s about creating vibrant, connected neighbourhoods, supporting economic growth, and ensuring our city’s infrastructure is prepared for the future.”

Thunder Bay is growing, and housing supply must grow with it. The Central Avenue Development Lands will:

  • Enable the development of 1,260 new homes, helping meet the City’s goal of building 2,200 homes by 2031.
  • Provide a mix of housing options, including “missing middle” and multi-unit developments.
  • Support population growth, attract businesses, and create jobs in Thunder Bay.

Get Involved

Public consultation will begin in early 2025, giving the community an opportunity to help shape this transformative project.

Thunder Bay is taking bold action to address housing challenges, support growth, and build a city where everyone can thrive. With this investment, we are shaping a brighter, more connected future for all.

For more information, visit: Central Avenue Development Lands | Get Involved Thunder Bay

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Contact:          Stacey Levanen, Supervisor – Corporate Communications & Community Engagement, 807-625-3650