News Releases

Negative interactions on Saskatoon Transit buses have been trending down significantly since June of this year, a report to the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation shows.

The Committee is set to receive this information at its regular meeting today.

“Saskatoon Transit implemented the Frontline Employee Safety Plan in June of 2024 and we see its desired effect,” says Mike Moellenbeck, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “We have fostered a culture of safety at Transit and since implementing all the elements of the plan we have seen a significant downward trend in the number of negative interactions reported on and around Saskatoon Transit facilities.”

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A negative interaction is defined as an incident that involves up to three of the following:

• Act of Aggression – an action made with the intent to cause harm or intimidate.
• Assault – physical contact made with an Operator or person
• Body Fluid – blood, spit, urine, or feces
• Fare Dispute – a passenger refusing to pay fare after being advised by the Operator
• Harassment – a continued, and unwelcome behaviour directed towards an Operator
• Intoxicated – a passenger suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs impacting passenger or operators feeling of safety
• Road Rage – exchanges by motorists directed towards the Operator
• Sexual Harassment – comments or conduct of a sexual nature
• Verbal Altercation – exchange between passenger and Operator involving shouting and/or swearing
• Weapon – Sharp or bladed objects, blunt objects, non-lethal objects that can cause harm.

The most common incidents continue to be related to social disorder issues such as intoxication (56%) and aggressive acts (15%) making up 71 per cent of all 2025 incidents.

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Moellenbeck says negative interactions involving an Operator have declined since 2023 and are trending to be lower in 2025.

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The report points to an innovative interagency cooperation between Saskatoon Transit and key organizations such as the Saskatoon Fire Department, Saskatoon Police Service, and the Corps. Of Commissionaires, among others, that provide necessary safety measures.

Of note, Fire Community Support workers (FCS), provide a visible uniformed presence at terminals and ride an average of 220 buses per month to support Transit and the Business Improvement Districts.

“The program’s effectiveness is demonstrated by its supportive, non-enforcement approach, with the objective of de-escalating situations and providing outreach programs to those in need,” Moellenbeck says.

Transit has also introduced new training for its frontline employees on customer service, situational awareness and de-escalation. This training ensures employees are supported in their interactions with different types of customers.

Favourably, most incidents are handled by Transit and FCS; only about 11 per cent require Police intervention.

“We’re encouraged with the results so far,” Moellenbeck says. “The investments City Council has made on public safety are making Transit a more safe and comfortable way to get around.”

Saskatoon’s Broadway Bridge is set to reopen on the evening of Saturday, November 1 following a major rehabilitation project. Barring any unforeseen circumstances, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians will once again have full access to the bridge.

“This was a major project that included deck repairs, improvements to the multi-use pathways, new asphalt, new waterproofing, new traffic barriers, arch and railing improvements and the removal of old and abandoned utilities underneath the bridge,” says Terry Schmidt, General Manager of Transportation and Construction.

One of the most significant changes has been the reconfiguration of the 4th Avenue and 19th Street intersection. To improve traffic safety and accommodate pedestrian movement, it is now a 'T' intersection.

“This intersection redesign supports future Saskatoon Transit Link plans and makes it easier for buses to navigate between Broadway Avenue and 19th Street,” Schmidt says. “The Broadway Bridge is a vital connection for our community, and these upgrades will serve all residents for decades to come.”

While the bridge and Spadina Crescent are reopening to vehicles and pedestrians, repairs will continue underneath the bridge. This work is not expected to impact traffic.

Saskatoon Transit will resume Route 8 service along Broadway Avenue once the bridge reopens. Service to temporary stops on Victoria Avenue and travel along the Traffic Bridge will end when regular service on Broadway resumes. Trip planning, service alerts and real-time bus information are available on third-party apps like Transit and Google Maps Transit on desktop.

City Council has, at its October 29 Regular Business Meeting, deferred a decision on a proposed private partner Agreement Framework with OVG360 (OVG) which would have begun to create a third-party operating management structure for the Downtown District Event Centre and Convention Centre.

Council voted unanimously to defer a discussion on the proposed framework until the first quarter of 2026 to further process the information, consider negotiated points and have an opportunity to discuss with impacted organizations.

The proposed agreement framework presented to Council set out $15 million in up-front capital plus a projected $235 million in forecasted operating revenue sharing over the full potential 30-year term, in contrast with the previous agreement which estimated a projected $170 million (combined capital and operating revenue) over 25 years.

The proposed agreement would reduce financial risk for the City: if there are Event Centre losses, those would be absorbed by OVG. The proposed agreement also addresses community benefits including economic opportunities for traditionally marginalized groups, employment that will work with existing employees and unions, and benefits for community non-profit events.

For more information on OVG360 please visit oakviewgroup.com/ovg360/.

For more information on the Downtown Event and Entertainment District, including background information and previous Council decisions, please visit saskatoon.ca/eventdistrict.
 

The City of Saskatoon, in collaboration with the governments of Canada and Saskatchewan, Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), and the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI), is proud to announce the official opening of Aggie’s and Shirley’s House, a transformative new transitional housing development designed to provide safe, culturally appropriate support for Indigenous women, children and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals fleeing domestic violence.

Located in the Kensington neighbourhood, this thoughtfully designed development will be operated by Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) and features two distinct wings with a total of 20 fully furnished units:

• Aggie’s House will operate as short term housing, offering immediate refuge, wraparound supports and access to meals through a shared kitchen.
• Shirley’s House will provide longer-term transitional housing where residents will have private kitchens, purchase their own groceries and pay rent as they prepare to reintegrate into the broader community.

This vital project was made possible through the generous contributions of multiple funding partners, including:

• $7.6 million from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
• A subsidy from Indigenous Services Canada
• $540,000 from Saskatchewan Housing Corporation
• $540,000 from the City of Saskatoon, along with a permit rebate and a five-year incremental abatement
• $1.4 million from the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated

In addition to safe and stable housing, residents will have access to trauma-informed counselling and therapeutic supports provided by Elders, responding to a growing need for culturally grounded healing services in Saskatoon.

Aggie’s and Shirley’s House represents a significant step forward in addressing the urgent need for transitional housing and healing spaces for those in the Indigenous community. This project embodies a unified commitment to fostering reconciliation, cultivating safety and empowering individuals through stable housing.

QUOTES

"The City of Saskatoon is proud to contribute to the development of Aggie’s and Shirley’s House. Our support reflects our commitment to collaborative, community-driven solutions to urgent housing needs. This project is a powerful example of what can be achieved when all levels of government, Indigenous organizations, and community partners come together. We are deeply grateful to everyone involved in making this vision a reality and look forward to the positive impact these homes will have on the lives of those who need them most." - Mayor Cynthia Block

“In partnership with Indigenous-led organizations and all levels of government, we’re proud to help bring Aggie and Shirley’s Shelter to life—a vital refuge for Saskatoon’s most vulnerable. These emergency and transitional housing units will offer Indigenous women, children, and 2SLGBTQI+ community members a safe place to heal, rebuild, and thrive—supported by services rooted in culture, dignity, and care.” – The Honourable Mandy Gull-Masty, Minister of Indigenous Services Canada

“Far too many vulnerable people fleeing violence struggle to find safe, stable housing. That’s why the work CUMFI is doing here in Saskatoon is so important — and why our federal government was proud to partner with them in this work. Together with Indigenous partners, non-profits, and all levels of government, we’re helping ensure that safe, affordable homes are within reach for everyone who needs them.” – The Honourable Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State (Rural Development) and Member of Parliament for Desnethé —Missinippi—Churchill River

“Transitional housing is a critical component in supporting those who need security and stability to build a brighter future. Aggie’s and Shirley’s House expands access to short-term and transitional housing in Saskatoon, giving individuals and families a safe, secure place to heal and rebuild their lives”. – The Honourable Terry Jenson, Minister of Social Services and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC)

NICHI is proud to support the Central Urban Metis Federation (CUMFI) Grand Opening with $1.46 million in funding toward a transformative project for 20 units of 1-3 bedrooms. Aggie's and Shirley's House will provide critical shelter and transitional housing for Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals and their children fleeing domestic violence. This initiative reflects our commitment under the Urban, Rural and Northern housing strategy to safe, culturally grounded spaces that foster healing and resilience." – John Gordon, CEO National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Incorporated (NICHI)

“CUMFI’s vision for the emergency and second stage intimate partner violence homes for Indigenous women and Two-Spirit has always been that it will be a safe welcoming environment at a time when no place seems safe.” - Shirley Isbister, Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) President

A report for the October 29 regular business meeting of City Council sets out the proposed agreement framework for a private operating partnership with OVG360 (OVG), one of the world’s leading full-service facility management teams with over 300 client-partners that span arenas, stadiums, convention centres and performing arts centres globally.

“We are pleased to bring forward a proposed agreement framework for the operation of the future facility, which was developed with OVG through a competitive bidding process” says Dan Willems, Director of Technical Services. “We are looking forward to getting Council’s feedback and direction on this important step.”

Willems adds the report is another step toward achieving a funding plan and not an approval for any construction to start.

The procurement process started in January 2024 when City Council approved a procurement approach for a private partner for operations management of one or both of the anchor facilities for the Downtown Event and Entertainment District. An RFP was issued to pre-qualified proponents in February 2024 and closed on April 25, 2024. After the evaluation of proposals, the submission from OVG was deemed the highest scoring and negotiations commenced.

Additional Project Background 

August 2024 

August 14: Downtown Event and Entertainment District – Private Partner Agreement Framework. Forwarded to City Council August 28 meeting as an approval report or at such time OVG was able to be in attendance.

September 2024 

September 25: Downtown Event and Entertainment District – Private Partner Agreement Framework Update provided a brief update on the status of OVG’s efforts to advance internal OVG reviews of the Agreement Framework. The Administration was to provide an update report to City Council with any proposed Agreement Framework modifications at such time that OVG was available to attend.

April 2025 

April 9: Downtown Event and Entertainment District – Private Partner Agreement Framework Update outlined the Administration’s intention to pause on bringing forward the private partner Agreement Framework to City Council for review and approval for up to six months. This pause was intended to allow time to monitor and reassess the economic and political environment in relation to the Agreement Framework.

At this point, City Council is being asked to consider the private partner Agreement Framework and set in motion negotiations for a Master Agreement based on the terms set out in the report.

Representatives from OVG360 will be present at the meeting and will make a presentation.

Please visit Frequently Asked Questions for additional context.

For further information on the Downtown Event and Entertainment District please visit saskatoon.ca/eventdistrict.

Everyone in Saskatoon is invited to come to one of two come-and-go information events to be held on October 23^rd and October 27^th, where the future configuration of the Link rapid transit project along 1^st Avenue will be displayed and City staff and the design Consultant will be available to answer questions. The come-and-go events will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown and have been scheduled to give people the opportunity to come view the concept design. This marks another major milestone in the project as construction moves forward toward a goal of a 2028 service launch.

“The 1^st Avenue section of the Link route is important as it is the only corridor where all three rapid transit lines will converge, and it will move a large number of people from, to and through Downtown,” says Terry Schmidt, General Manager of Transportation and Construction. “These events will give people the opportunity to see where stations will be located as well as give them an idea of how transit, traffic, pedestrians and cyclists will move along 1^st Avenue once Link is operational.”

People are invited to attend one of the two events:

October 23 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Hilton Garden Inn 90 22nd St E
Garden South Centre Room

October 27 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Hilton Garden Inn 90 22nd St E
Garden South Centre Room

In addition, a stakeholder-specific event will be held for residents and businesses directly along 1^st Avenue between 19^th Street and 25^th Street and 21^st Street between 1^st Avenue and 3^rd Avenue on October 22^nd.

More information can be found at saskatoon.ca/link1st.

The Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS) pilot program is complete, and a fee-for-use model will begin on October 30, 2025. Fees can be paid using the ChargePoint app, RFID card, and directly with credit cards or through digital wallet.

User fees are in effect 24 hours a day, including weekends, evenings, statutory and other holidays. The maximum charging duration is three hours. Onsite signage is in place to provide more information to users.

At its August 27 meeting, City Council resolved electric vehicle charging stations at Lakewood and Lawson Civic Centres would begin charging user fees as soon as possible. This decision supports long-term service and fairness for users and community.

Installed in May 2023, these stations had been offered at no cost to the user as part of a two-year pilot project, allowing the City to study the usage patterns, electricity consumption on site, impact on peak demand in the buildings, repair and maintenance requirements, role of internal stakeholders including facilities management, parking enforcement, leisure centres, customer service, and other details to better understand the implications of adding such infrastructure to other public-facing civic sites. The stations experienced steady use and positive feedback during the pilot project.

For more information about electric vehicles in Saskatoon, please visit saskatoon.ca/CityEV.

The City of Saskatoon is making strides to address housing affordability and homelessness through the launch of HOUSING Saskatoon, a new Affordable Housing Strategy for 2025-2030, the City’s first comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment, and municipal budget options to support housing incentives. These initiatives will be presented to meetings of the Standing Policy Committees on Planning, Development and Community Services and Finance both on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

HOUSING Saskatoon: A strategic path forward

The City has unveiled HOUSING Saskatoon, a comprehensive Affordable Housing Strategy (the Strategy) for 2025-2030, alongside its first-ever comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment. Together, these documents chart a strategic course to address growing housing challenges and improve affordability for Saskatoon residents.

Developed in partnership with the Community-University Institute for Social Research (CUISR), the Housing Needs Assessment combines data analysis with insights from nearly 100 interviews and focus groups. The findings reveal that approximately 10% of Saskatoon households are in Core Housing Need, which is determined by factors such as affordability, adequacy and suitability. Renters are disproportionately affected, with low-income households, single mothers, seniors and Indigenous residents facing the highest rates of housing insecurity. Rising rents, limited affordable options and increasing homelessness highlight the urgent need for coordinated action.

The Strategy outlines five key goals:

• Diversify housing options
• Increase the supply of affordable housing
• Strengthen partnerships
• Raise public awareness
• Promote equity in housing access

To achieve these goals, the Strategy includes 84 targeted actions, with 52 prioritized for immediate implementation. A performance framework will track progress, with annual reporting to City Council.

Pending budget approvals, the proposed budget options would expand investment and collaborate with provincial and federal partners to accelerate affordable housing development. This initiative marks a significant step toward building a more inclusive, resilient and affordable housing future for Saskatoon.

Exploring budget options to advance affordable housing

To support the implementation of HOUSING Saskatoon, the City is evaluating three levels of municipal investment through its Affordable Housing Incentives report. Each option is designed to increase the supply of affordable housing and leverage additional funding from provincial and federal sources.

Increased investment would support non-profit and Indigenous housing providers, improve health and social outcomes, and strengthen community resilience.

The proposed budget options will be considered during Council’s 2026/27 Business Plan and Budget deliberations.

“Without a dedicated municipal contribution, Saskatoon risks missing out on time-sensitive federal and provincial funding opportunities that require matching or complementary investments, and falling behind other jurisdictions,” said Lesley Anderson, Director of Planning and Development. “A stable and predictable funding model is essential to support the implementation of our Affordable Housing Strategy and respond to urgent housing needs.”

Neighbourhood Land Development Fund allocation

To further strengthen support for affordable housing, the City Administration is proposing a revised policy to the Standing Policy Committee on Finance that will allocate 15% of future profits from the Neighbourhood Land Development Fund directly to the City’s housing program. This dedicated funding will help create new affordable housing units and provide greater certainty for community partners working to address housing needs.

“To sum it up, the City Administration is bringing forward a strategy to look at what the housing needs are, what kind of housing is available, how to get it built quickly and then guarantee stable funding for the future,” Anderson says. “We’re confident the HOUSING Saskatoon strategy will make our community a strong leader in affordable housing initiatives.”

For more information on the City’s housing efforts, visit saskatoon.ca/housing-saskatoon.