Memorial Arena redevelopment project advances with Council approval
BRACEBRIDGE, ON (July 16, 2026) – The Town of Bracebridge has reached another major milestone in the redevelopment of the former Memorial Arena site, with Council approving a Zoning By-law Amendment that moves the affordable housing project one step closer to construction.
The approval establishes the planning framework needed to support the redevelopment of the municipally owned property into a vibrant, mixed-income residential community. The proposed development will deliver over 100 new housing units, including a minimum of 25 per cent affordable housing in each building, helping to address one of Council's highest priorities, increasing housing supply and affordability while strengthening the downtown core.
Since launching the redevelopment process in 2025, the project has advanced through each stage of planning, procurement and partnership development, reflecting the Town's long-term commitment to increasing housing opportunities in Bracebridge.
The redevelopment is being advanced through a collaboration between the Town of Bracebridge, Greystone Project Management Inc., Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North and The District Municipality of Muskoka. Together, everyone involved is working to redevelop an underutilized municipal property to provide a mix of affordable and attainable housing while supporting the vision set out in the Town's Downtown Master Plan.
While this approval marks a significant milestone, additional work remains before construction can begin. The Town will continue working collaboratively with Greystone Project Management Inc., Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North and The District Municipality of Muskoka as the project moves into the next phase, including detailed design, site plan approval, engineering review and the completion of the required agreements.
For news and updates as the project progresses, subscribe to engagebracebridge.ca/memorial-arena-site-redevelopment.
Quotes
“This approval marks another important step toward delivering more housing for the people who call Bracebridge home and those who want to build their future here. Creating more housing has been one of Council's top priorities, and today's decision reflects our commitment to taking meaningful action. This project demonstrates what can be achieved when municipalities, housing organizations and the private sector work together toward a common goal. We're proud to reach another milestone and look forward to continuing our work with our partners to create more safe, affordable housing to Bracebridge.”
- Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge
"The rezoning of the former Memorial Arena lands marks another significant milestone in bringing this shared vision to life. We are proud to continue working alongside the Town of Bracebridge, the District of Muskoka and Habitat for Humanity Gateway North to create much-needed affordable housing and transform this property into a vibrant community for current and future residents."
- Jon Morton, Chief Operating Officer, Greystone Project Management Inc.
“I'd like to thank Bracebridge Council for clearing the runway for this important District project to take off. Today’s approval of the zoning amendment for the former Bracebridge Memorial Arena site marks an important milestone in bringing this project to life. We look forward to continuing our work with the Town of Bracebridge, Greystone and Habitat for Humanity to help deliver this collaborative project and create more affordable homes for people who need them."
- Jeff Lehman, Chair, District Municipality of Muskoka
“Generation Homes Bracebridge shows what's possible when organizations come together with a shared goal of creating more housing for our community. We're excited to be working alongside Greystone Project Management, the Town of Bracebridge and the District Municipality of Muskoka on this landmark project because everyone at the table is committed to making it a success. Adding new rental homes will give more people the opportunity to live, work, and build their future in Bracebridge, while making a meaningful contribution to the long-term health and vibrancy of our community."
- Meghan Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, Habitat for Humanity Ontario Gateway North
About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country. With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.
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