In June 2023, the City broke ground on the new central library at the Baker District redevelopment. This redevelopment, which began as a former municipal parking lot, will create a renewed area of activity, and help revitalize Downtown Guelph. In addition to the new Central Library, the site will boast a public parking garage (under the library), public squares, commercial and retail spaces, and residential towers.
The Baker District redevelopment’s main feature will be the new 88,000 square foot Central Library. As a zero-carbon building, the new library will be in alignment with the City’s goal of achieving a 63 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and contributing to Guelph’s Race to Zero pledge.
With the City’s Official Plan earmarking Guelph’s Downtown to achieve a density target of 150 people and jobs combined per hectare by 2031, this redevelopment project will contribute to Guelph’s growth target of a population of 203,000 people and an employment base of 116,000 jobs by 2051.
Residents will be able to start truly enjoying this transformational project in Downtown Guelph, when the new Central Library and underground parking garage opens in 2026, and there will still be more to come. The Baker District redevelopment project is a big project with big impacts, that will ultimately help to enhance economic and social footprints in Downtown Guelph.
