Elmira’s north end is undergoing major transformation as multiple redevelopment projects move forward. The demolition of the former Trinity United Church and active renovations on nearby commercial sites signal a new chapter for housing, commerce, and community engagement in the town. For construction workers, contractors, and tradespeople, these projects represent a surge of opportunities in residential, commercial, and mixed-use development.
At 21 Arthur St. N., the former Trinity United Church has been demolished to make way for a six-storey building featuring 53 new apartment units. The lower level will also include space for the church’s congregation, currently located temporarily in Floradale. This adaptive reuse project is more than a housing development—it also preserves the role of the church as a community anchor. With a projected completion date by spring 2027, trades will be engaged across structural, mechanical, electrical, and interior finishing stages.
The Record reports that the project has already drawn strong interest from prospective tenants, demonstrating the local demand for downtown apartment living close to shops, services, and transit. The building’s mix of residential units and community space will provide long-term benefits while boosting local construction employment.
Directly across the street, work has begun on a 1.9-acre commercial property at 6 Arthur St. N., long vacant but zoned for a wide variety of uses. The current $500,000 permit covers interior renovations and repairs to bring the building up to code. While speculation circulates about its possible return as a grocery store, no tenant has yet been confirmed.
Construction management is being handled by Collaborative Structure Limited, a company with a track record in large-scale industrial, commercial, and institutional builds. For tradespeople, the project will involve interior demolition, systems upgrades, and compliance work—all crucial steps in reviving a structure for modern occupancy.
Beyond private developments, the Township of Woolwich has been advancing its own housing plans. With federal support from the Housing Accelerator Fund, the township purchased the Home Hardware site at 22 Church St. W. and 3 Maple St. for future housing. These lands were recently sold to Services and Housing in the Province (SHIP), a non-profit developer, to create a mixed-use project featuring about 75 units, including affordable housing. This initiative underscores the township’s commitment to addressing housing needs, particularly in the “missing middle” segment.
The redevelopment of the Home Hardware and Elmira Donuts and Deli site, expected to begin after the hardware store relocates in 2027, will bring additional construction activity. The township has indicated plans to support tenants through relocation assistance while redeveloping the property into new housing and community space.
Alongside housing, the township is planning to introduce a new public square and green space along Maple Street. This will create a focal point for social interaction and enhance the livability of the growing downtown core. For landscape contractors, site work crews, and urban design specialists, this presents opportunities to contribute to Elmira’s long-term community fabric.
From the 53-unit apartment building at 21 Arthur St. N. to the SHIP-led mixed-use development and commercial renovations across the street, Elmira’s redevelopment wave demands a wide array of construction skills:
Demolition and Site Prep: clearing and preparing challenging urban sites.
Structural Work: framing, masonry, and concrete for mid-rise construction.
Mechanical/Electrical/Plumbing: modern systems to meet residential and commercial needs.
Interior Finishing: drywall, millwork, flooring, and fixture installation.
Exterior and Landscaping: façade restoration, public space development, and green space enhancements.
The cumulative effect of these projects is a boost to local jobs, from general contractors to specialized subcontractors, while also providing training grounds for apprentices entering the construction trades.
Elmira’s north end is poised for a dramatic transformation with multiple projects reshaping the landscape. The six-storey residential and church redevelopment, the revitalization of the 6 Arthur St. N. property, and the township’s affordable housing and public square initiatives all highlight a commitment to growth, community, and livability. For workers in the construction field, these projects mean steady demand for skilled trades and the chance to contribute to a town reimagining its core.