Flood Control Strategy: Churchill Park dry storm pond substantially complete

The risk of flooding during intense summer rainfalls is much lower for more than 50 properties near Churchill District Park. A dry storm pond in the park, which will hold flood water and serve as a sports field whenever dry, is substantially complete. It is the second dry storm pond to be built under the City of Saskatoon’s Flood Control Strategy (FCS).

“Substantial completion means it is mostly done, but there’s still some finishing touches to do before the space can officially open,” says Director of Saskatoon Water, Russ Munro. “The site will remain fenced off until fall 2023 to give the newly installed sod and trees time to establish.”

The FCS, approved by City Council in 2018, is aimed at reducing flooding in nine of Saskatoon’s most flood prone areas. The first dry storm pond opened in W.W. Ashley District Park in October. Right now, plans are in the works to begin construction on a third dry storm pond in Weaver Park in early 2023.  

The Churchill Park dry storm pond took approximately nine months to build. It will reduce summer flood concerns around Ruth Street and Cairns Avenue, Bute Street and Munroe Avenue, Ruth Street and York Avenue, and Bute Street and Albert Avenue.

“Residents will notice new trees, a new pathway, new multi-use sports fields, and spectator seating built into the slopes. We are very pleased with the result and look forward to the neighbourhood enjoying the new space next year,” says Munro.

Dry storm ponds are designed to hold water that would otherwise cause flooding during intense rainfalls. The water flows from nearby properties and roads into the dry storm pond before it slowly drains into the storm sewer and to the South Saskatchewan River. Prior to the establishment of the FCS, Saskatoon already had nine dry storm ponds, mostly in neighbourhoods built after 1989 when enhanced storm water infrastructure standards were established.

The Government of Canada is contributing 40% of the eligible construction costs up to a maximum of $21.6 million toward nine FCS projects.  The City is funding the remaining construction costs through the Storm Water Utility Capital Program and revenue generated from Storm Water Utility charges. 

For more information about the FCS, visit saskatoon.ca/floodplan.