Thunder Bay City Hall (File Photo/Acadia Broadcasting)

Thunder Bay is reporting a strong start to the construction season in 2025.

According to the city, $123 million of building permits were issued by the end of April, marking an increase of almost 75 per cent compared to the previous year.

Another $60 million in building permit applications are also currently under review.

Meanwhile, housing permits have seen a year-over-year increase of 43 per cent.

Projects underway in the city include new apartment buildings, commercial redevelopment, and the new cardio unit being developed at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre.

“We’ve created the right conditions for growth: unlocking land, keeping costs competitive, and providing expert support to help projects move forward quickly,” said the Director of Development Services, Joel DePeuter. “Even with a high volume of applications, we’re keeping approvals fast and efficient, and with record investment through programs like the Housing Accelerator Fund, we’re making it easier and faster to build in Thunder Bay.”

The city has more growth initiatives set to be released in the coming months.

“The numbers speak for themselves,” said City Manager John Collin. “Thunder Bay is on an upward trajectory. Our focus on smart growth, unlocking land for development, and streamlining development is creating a city where people want to live, work, and invest.”