10 important projects that will help improve Barrhaven in 2026
As we approach 2026, several major infrastructure projects and community developments are set to define the year for Barrhaven. Based on the recently passed 2026 City Budget and ongoing community initiatives, here are the top 10 news stories to watch.
1. Greenbank Road Realignment Begins
Construction is officially set to break ground in Spring 2026 on the long-awaited Greenbank Road realignment. This includes the massive $56 million Jock River bridge, a critical piece of infrastructure that was fast-tracked from its original 2031 start date.
2. Southwest Transitway Extension
A $7.65 million investment will see the extension of the Southwest Transitway from Barrhaven Centre to Kilbirnie. This project aims to bring rapid transit directly into the rapidly growing Half Moon Bay area.
3. Barrhaven Food Cupboard Expansion
With food prices projected to rise significantly in 2026, the Barrhaven Food Cupboard is bracing for record demand. Community leaders are focused on securing more stable funding and donations to support the 700+ families relying on the service monthly. The City’s 2026 budget added $476,000 to the city-wide food security fund to help organizations like the Cupboard manage the projected 4–6% rise in food costs.
4. New Retail Hub at 4175 Strandherd Drive
Development applications for a major new retail shopping mall on Strandherd Drive will move into the construction phase. This project is expected to fill the gap left by the closure of several “big box” stores in recent years. While the development application for this “mixed-use commercial node” is active for 2026, real estate listings (LoopNet/Showcase) currently slate the possession date for 2028. 2026 will likely involve site preparation and zoning finalization rather than a grand opening.
5. Increased Police Presence
The 2026 budget funds 25 new officers as part of a multi-year plan. Additionally, the $187 million OPS South Facility in Barrhaven remains under construction with a planned 2027 opening.
6. The “Barrhaven Left” Traffic Fixes
The 2026 budget includes over $1.5 million for intersection improvements. Key projects include a new left-turn lane at Borrisokane and Flagstaff, as well as safety redesigns for the Cambrian/Elevation and Cappamore/Old Greenbank intersections.
7. New Paramedic Hires to Curb “Level Zero”
Barrhaven residents have historically been hit hard by ambulance delays. In 2026, the city will hire 23 new paramedics specifically to improve response times in the southern suburbs and reduce “level zero” incidents (when no ambulances are available). This follows a successful 2024–2025 push that already reduced “Level Zero” incidents by 79%.
8. OC Transpo Fleet Modernization
A $20 million investment into the city’s bus fleet will see aging, breakdown-prone buses replaced. For Barrhaven commuters, the city has also extended the afternoon transfer window to 115 minutes to avoid double-charging for those with long commutes.
9. Mowat Farm Park Upgrades
Local families can look forward to a $281,000 redesign of Mowat Farm Park. The project will introduce modern play structures and improved equipment, revitalizing one of the community’s central green spaces.
10. Major Road Resurfacing
Significant portions of Berkshire Way and Fable Street are scheduled for full resurfacing and sidewalk repairs. These projects aim to address the wear and tear caused by the heavy construction traffic from nearby new developments.
