It's official! Sunray Group is bringing a hotel to Beach Area 1

The Town of Wasaga Beach inked the long-anticipated deal with the award-winning Sunray Group of Hotels to sprinkle some magic on our beloved beachfront. The deal is to sell a prime slice of beachfront land to Sunray, setting the stage for a dazzling redevelopment that will cost an estimated $45 million to complete.

A Boutique Hotel on the Horizon

Picture this: a chic, 150-room boutique hotel right by the water's edge. That's what Sunray Group has in store for us. This isn't just any hotel; it's set to elevate Wasaga Beach's charm and attract visitors year-round. The hotel will occupy approximately 1.5 acres of the 4-acre development site, making it a prime waterfront destination.

The Price Tag: A Steal or a Strategic Move?

One number that has raised eyebrows is the sale price. The first phase of the deal saw Sunray Group purchasing an initial lot for $580,000. Over the remaining phases, the total land sale will amount to $2 million. Some believe this price is too low for such a valuable piece of real estate. However, town officials argue that the deal was structured this way to ensure development actually happens, rather than letting the land sit unused or flip for profit. In fact, Sunray Group is prohibited from selling the land before completing their commitments.

Mixed-Use Marvel: Living, Shopping, and More

But wait, there's more! The redevelopment isn't just about a hotel. Plans include a vibrant mix of residential units—ranging from cozy 600 sq. ft. flats to spacious 2,000 sq. ft. homes—catering to everyone from young professionals to growing families. In total, nearly 500 new housing units are on the horizon. And let's not forget the commercial spaces: trendy shops, delightful restaurants, and even venues for live music and festivals, all contributing to a dynamic beachfront atmosphere.

Job Bonanza: Boosting the Local Economy

This project isn't just about buildings; it's about people. The new development is expected to create approximately 75 direct jobs within the hotel and commercial spaces. Additionally, the construction phase alone will require hundreds of workers, providing a much-needed boost to the local job market. Town officials believe this investment will bring long-term economic benefits, encouraging tourism and year-round employment opportunities.

Construction Countdown: Mark Your Calendars

Eager to see the transformation? Construction is slated to kick off in Spring 2025, with demolition of existing structures along Beach Drive from Main Street to Third Street. The goal is to have shovels in the ground by Summer 2025, so get ready to watch our beachfront evolve!

A Collaborative Effort: Community and Developers Unite

This redevelopment isn't happening in a vacuum. Over 600 residents attended a public meeting at the Town's RecPlex to view the proposed plans, with feedback being overwhelmingly positive. The designs reflect the community's desires for a beachfront that's both functional and fabulous, ensuring that Wasaga Beach's unique character shines through.

A Nod to the Past, A Leap to the Future

Wasaga Beach has seen its fair share of changes over the years. This redevelopment marks a significant milestone in our town's history, blending nostalgia with modernity. With Sunray Group's expertise and the community's support, our beachfront is set to become a destination that honors its past while embracing the future.