Business View Civil and Municipal | Volume 2, Issue 12

96 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 2, ISSUE 11 TOWNSHI P OF SPR INGWATER , ONTAR IO the center of Simcoe County with convenient access to urban, rural, and recreational areas through regional and provincial highways. Springwater’s uniqueness combines small town charm with urban access, close proximity to schools and post-secondary education, four season recreational opportunities, and excellent supporting infrastructure. We also have access to one of the largest tracts of forest through the Simcoe County forests, offering many trails and activities throughout the year.” Midhurst and Elmvale are home to the majority of Springwater’s 22,700 residents, with the township expecting an estimated 67% growth over the next 10 years. “Growing development continues to be a major factor in Springwater and dealing with managing the growth is an ongoing challenge,” Mayor Allen explains. “Development is coming fast and furious. It is estimated that the township will reach a population base of 37,800 by 2031, an increase of 15,100 people.” The population of Springwater covers a broad spectrum – from young families, to retirees, and everyone in between. Farming employs a significant portion of the workforce, while others commute to work in the larger cities south of the municipality. As GO Transit services from Barrie to Toronto are continuously improved, Springwater is becoming a more attractive location for commuters, especially in the area of the township on the northern edge of the City of Barrie. Broadband is an ongoing challenge for the community and a committee has been put together to try to address the issue. The group is made up of members of council and township staff. Jeff Schmidt, Springwater CAO, explains, “The intent of the committee is to advocate as much as we can to have the private industries come and provide for that infrastructure, and also to try to support them through any potential funding applications they may want to Springwater Mayor, Don Allen & Jeff Schmidt, Springwater CAO

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