In addition to a large rural and agricultural community, Tay is also composed of the communities of Port McNicoll, Victoria Harbour, Waubaushene and Waverley.
History
Ports McNicoll and Victoria Harbour were once thriving shipping ports for the lumber trade during the late 17th to the early 20th centuries. In the 1800s and early 1900s, these two ports, along with Midland, became major transfer points for grain harvested in the Canadian and USA prairies. Giant elevators were built to house the grain delivered by ship from the lake head, with onward transport via rail to Toronto and beyond.
With the advent of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959, the grain deliveries to these ports started to dwindle. Using the St Lawrence Seaway, it became easy to transport larger volumes of grain, on much larger vessels, to Montreal.
As a result, the grain elevators have recently been demolished (the last one in 2009), along with the adjunct railway terminals and tracks. Railroad tracks are now walking and ski doo trails and the terminal lands have been sold to developers.
Today
The in-town waterfronts are in the middle of a metamorphosis, with developers turning these lands into luxury waterfront, single family residences, town homes and condominiums. Tay’s goals are that these communities remain safe, affordable and active during and after this planned growth.
New upscale waterfront and non-waterfront homes will elevate the demand for services which local businesses are not capable of handling. This will cause an increased demand for a skilled workforce, beyond what the local trades can presently handle. Therefore, trades people are now prepared to move north to enjoy the Southern Georgian Bay environment, with the assurance of being able to support their families.
For the time being, at least, house prices and taxes are remaining constant, and no significant rise in either is anticipated beyond the normal rise in the cost of living.
USEFUL LINKS
Township of Tay
Southern Georgian Bay Chamber of Commerce
Simcoe County and Muskoka Health Unit
EDUCATION
Simcoe County District School Board
Simcoe Muskoka Catholic District School Board
Tay Township Public Libraries
If you're looking for a safe family neighbourhood, Tay Township might have just what you need. Call me today at 800-840-6668, 705-720-0231, or use the form below to send an email, and we'll find out!
Scott
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