News Releases

The City of Saskatoon recently received in excess of 55 cm of snow accumulation within a six day-span, including more than 35 cm of snow this past weekend. This prompted the City to activate the Roadways Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which includes a snow grading and removal program across the entire city. The plan is activated when more than 25 cm of snow falls and streets are impassable for light vehicles. 

Priority street grading throughout Saskatoon is now complete, far outpacing the 96 hour-timeline identified in the ERP. Snow grading in residential neighbourhoods and industrial areas is underway ahead of schedule and is expected to take up to six days to complete. For a list of neighbourhoods where grading will take place visit saskatoon.ca/snow. The list is continuously updated as the City assesses the progress of grading operations.  

Grading on streets in residential and industrial areas will also reduce the potential for rutting once temperatures begin to fluctuate. 

After local streets in residential neighbourhoods are complete: 

• Crews have started to address many tall snow piles along the roadways where sightlines may be reduced. Drivers should proceed with caution near intersections and crosswalks.  

• Crews can start addressing alley access; problematic alleys may be addressed sooner pending available resources. 

The last phase of the snowstorm response will involve partial implementation of the Phase 5 of the ERP. Snow piles will only be removed from Priority 1 streets. Snow removal on Priority 1 streets is expected to begin on Monday March 11 and should take approximately two weeks. Snow removal has already begun in school zones and Business Improvement Districts. Changes in weather may cause these timelines to be adjusted. 

Snow removal on residential streets will not take place unless there is a localized serious safety concern, which will be assessed and addressed, as required. 

What you need to know about the local street grading program:  

• We use an ‘outside- in’ and ‘inside- out’ approach to scheduling street snow grading due to the higher impact in these core and outlying neighbourhoods. We also do our best to schedule around collections to avoid conflicts. Outlying areas are often impacted by drifting snow and wind. Core areas are often higher density, are designed differently than newer areas with less room to park and to put snow.  

• The main priority with this program is to make all streets accessible. Snow will be graded and then piled in nearby parking lanes, boulevards, and medians. The City understands the piles restrict parking and cause visibility concerns. Please proceed around the snow piles with caution and do not let children play on them or dig into them as they are dangerous. 

• If it is possible, residents are encouraged to move vehicles parked on the street prior to grading crews arriving. The City recognizes some vehicles are stuck, therefore vehicles left parked on the street will not be ticketed or towed. The equipment will work around vehicles that are not moved off the street. Residents are encouraged to dig their cars out, asking for help from the community if needed. 

• Parking restriction signage will not be posted in advance of grading in all neighbourhoods, with the exception of some streets that are too narrow for equipment to get down. In cases where such streets have been signed in advance, vehicles will be towed to the closest available parking and residents will be encouraged to check the ‘Find My Vehicle’ app.  

• Residents are encouraged to notify friends, family and neighbours that schedules will be available and updated at saskatoon.ca/snow.  

• For those living in apartments, leaving space for parking lanes won’t always be possible with this much snow, as our priority is improving mobility in the street.  

• We do what we can to keep sidewalks clear, but this amount of snow can make that difficult after clearing driving lanes. Please do not to push or blow snow into the street (Bylaw No. 8463 The Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw, 2005) as it makes grading more difficult and creates a greater risk for vehicles to get stuck. There are some sidewalks that are maintained by the city that as part of Phase 4 to improve mobility of active transportation, these are underway but will take some time to complete.  

• The City’s Customer Care Centre continues to experience a high volume of calls. Please visit saskatoon.ca/snow to find the latest information and help answer many of your questions.   

Stay in the know about snow grading efforts by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow and following the City’s social media channels. Check the latest Snow & Ice Report posted to saskatoon.ca/snowreport. A regularly-updated map of which Priority Streets have been completed is available at saskatoon.ca/prioritystreetsmap.  

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

RUTH ST E ROAD CLOSED FROM KELVIN AVE TO MELROSE AVE
(Sanitary sewer service repairs)
Start: March 7, 8:00 a.m. End: March 7, 5:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR S WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM LORNE AVE TO SPADINA CRES W
(Streetlight repair)
Start: March 7, 9:00 a.m. End: March 7, 3:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD CRES NB LANES CLOSED FROM 11TH ST W TO SASKATCHEWAN CRES W
(Sewer lining)
Start: March 7, 9:00 a.m. End: March 7, 3:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE NB & SB LEFT TURN LANES CLOSED AT 108TH ST W
(Sewer lining)
Start: March 7, 9:00 a.m. End: March 7, 3:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE NB & SB LEFT TURN LANES CLOSED AT 109TH ST W
(Sewer lining)
Start: March 7, 9:00 a.m. End: March 7, 3:00 p.m.

COLLEGE DR EB & WB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED AT CLARENCE AVE N
(Sewer lining)
Start: March 7, 10:00 a.m. End: March 7, 3:00 p.m.

RUTH ST E EB LANES & WB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM CUMBERLAND AVE S TO BLAIN AVENUE
(Sanitary sewer inspection)
WB traffic squeezed into the parking lane.
Start: March 7, 10:00 a.m. End: March 7, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

Ruth Street will be closed between Melrose and Kelvin avenues on Thursday, March 7th, starting at 8:00 a.m. for sanitary sewer service repairs. Detours will be in place guiding motorists around the work zone. This project is expected to take one day to complete, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Saskatoon Transit may be affected by these detours. Transit service alerts and real-time bus information are available on third-party apps like Transit and Google Maps Transit on desktop.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction. 

Direct bus service from the Special Events Stop (23rd Street and 2nd Avenue) to see the Harlem Globetrotters at SaskTel Centre on Wednesday, March 6, at 7:00 p.m., is available at the following times: 

• 5:45 p.m. 
• 6:25 p.m.

Post-event drop-off is the downtown terminal and regular fares apply ($3.00 per trip). Fare can be purchased on your mobile phone using either the TGo or transit app, transfers and passes are also accepted. Typically, buses arrive onsite 30 minutes prior to the end of the event. 

Plan your trip to events at SaskTel Centre on Route 333 using the Transit app up to two weeks in advance. Check out the Transit+ feature to help make connections that combine Transit with OnDemand Transit, riide, and Uber. Download the Transit app from the Apple Store or Google Play. 

Transit service times for special events at SaskTel Centre and other popular destinations can always be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca/plan-my-trip/popular-destinations. Experience the convenience of using Saskatoon Transit to attend all your favourite events. 

The City of Saskatoon received between 30 to 40 cm of snow accumulation from Saturday,March 2 to Monday,March 4. This prompted the City to activate the Roadways Emergency Response Plan (ERP), which includes a snow grading and removal program across the entire city. The plan is activated when more than 25 cm of snow falls and streets are impassable for light vehicles. 

Priority street grading throughout Saskatoon is nearing completion and a list of neighbourhoods for local street snow grading is now available at saskatoon.ca/snow. The list will be updated again once the City is able to assess the progress of the first 24 hours of grading operations. Local street snow grading is expected to take up to three days to complete. 

After local streets are complete: 

• Crews will move into industrial areas. 

• Crews can start addressing alley access; problematic alleys may be addressed sooner pending available resources.   

• The need for the last phase of the plan (Phase 5), which involves city-wide snow removal, will be assessed in the coming days considering factors such as weather conditions and the proximity to the end of the winter season. 

• For a detailed timeline please review the Emergency Response Plan infographic.  

• Right now there are many tall snow piles along the roadways. Sight-lines may be reduced so drivers should proceed with caution near intersections and crosswalks. 

What you need to know about the local street grading program:  

• Parking restriction signage will not be posted in advance of grading in all neighbourhoods, with the exception of some streets that are too narrow for equipment to get down. Residents are encouraged to notify friends, family and neighbours that schedules will be available and updated at saskatoon.ca/snow. The schedules are working around regular waste and recycling collection pick-up dates.  

• If it is possible, residents are encouraged to move vehicles parked on the street prior to grading crews arriving. The City recognizes some vehicles are stuck, therefore vehicles left parked on the street will not be ticketed or towed. The equipment will work around vehicles that are not moved off the street.   

• The main priority with this program is to make all streets accessible. Snow will be graded and then piled in nearby parking lanes, boulevards, and medians. The City understands the piles restrict parking and cause visibility concerns. The City may be able to prioritize localized snow removal in areas where lack of visibility from the snow pile is causing a serious safety concern before the decision on city-wide snow removal is made. Please proceed around the snow piles with caution and do not let children play on them or dig into them as they are dangerous.  

• The City understands that residents are running out of places to pile the snow. Please do not to push or blow snow into the street (Bylaw No. 8463 The Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw, 2005) as it makes grading more difficult and creates a greater risk for vehicles to get stuck.  

• Curbside collections will continue as scheduled for the remainder of the week. The City is reminding residents that it is crucial to clear away any accumulated snow around curbside carts. Ensure the lids are free from ice and snow, allowing them to close securely. Proper cart placement will be key to successful collections. Residents are asked to roll out carts by 7 a.m. and place them in front of, or four feet to the side of, snowbanks to ensure collection truck arms can access carts. Visit saskatoon.ca/cartcare to learn more. 

• Residents living on cul-de-sacs will also need to evaluate their situation in order to decide what suits them best for proper cart placement. Coordinate with your neighbours to ensure carts are all in the same area, either in front of or beside the snow pile, and facing in the same direction. 

• The City’s Customer Care Centre continues to experience a high volume of calls. Please visit saskatoon.ca/snow to find the latest information and help answer many of your questions.   

Stay in the know about snow grading efforts by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow and following the City’s social media channels. Check the latest Snow & Ice Report posted to saskatoon.ca/snowreport. A regularly-updated map of which Priority Streets have been completed is available at saskatoon.ca/prioritystreetsmap.  

We thank residents for their cooperation and patience.  

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

RUTH ST E ROAD CLOSED FROM KELVIN AVE TO MELROSE AVE
(Sanitary sewer service repairs)
Start: March 6, 8:00 a.m. End: March 6, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

Ruth Street will be closed between Melrose and Kelvin avenues on Wednesday, March 6th, starting at 8:00 a.m. for sanitary sewer service repairs. Detours will be in place guiding motorists around the work zone. This project is expected to take one day to complete, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Saskatoon Transit may be affected by these detours. Transit service alerts and real-time bus information are available on third-party apps like Transit and Google Maps Transit on desktop.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction. 

With the City of Saskatoon receiving between 30 and 40 cm of snow accumulation since Saturday morning, the Roadways team has activated the Emergency Response Plan  (ERP). The plan is activated when more than 25 cm of snow falls and streets are impassable for light vehicles. The City’s Emergency Operation Centre has been activated to collaborate with critical infrastructure partners throughout the city. 

A summary of the work underway includes: 

• Work is progressing very well and is ahead of schedule. 

• 100 per cent of Priority 1 Streets, 75 per cent of Priority 2 Streets (expected completion by noon) and 45 per cent of Priority 3 Streets (expected completion by midnight, Wednesday, March 6) have been graded. 

• Sander trucks continue to spread sand throughout the day on these streets to increase traction.  

• Because work has proceeded so well, the plan is to move into residential areas and start clearing local streets during the night shift on Wednesday, March 6. A list of initial neighbourhoods for local street snow grading is expected to be available at saskatoon.ca/snow tomorrow, Wednesday, March 6, and continuously updated as crews make progress – please watch for further information this week. 

• Crews will move into industrial areas after all local streets in residential areas are completed. After that, crews can start addressing alley access; problematic alleys may be addressed sooner pending available resources.   

• The need for the last phase of the plan (Phase 5), which involves city-wide snow removal, will be assessed in the coming days considering factors such as weather conditions and the proximity to the end of the winter season. 

• For a detailed timeline please review the Emergency Response Plan infographic.  

• Right now there are many tall snowpiles along the roadways. Sight-lines may be reduced so drivers should proceed with caution near intersections and crosswalks. 

A reminder that during an ERP activation, posted temporary parking restrictions will not be used. Vehicles will be allowed to remain on streets and residents are encouraged to park their vehicles off the streets into parking lots, garages and driveways whenever possible. 

Stay in the know about snow grading efforts and the list of Priority Streets by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow and following the City’s social media channels. Check the latest Snow & Ice Report posted to saskatoon.ca/snowreport. A regularly-updated map of which Priority Streets have been completed is available at saskatoon.ca/prioritystreetsmap. 

The majority of civic services and facilities are now open for regular business and operating normally with a few exceptions:  

Saskatoon Transit  

• Fixed-route service is being maintained. Detours and delays are still expected as operators navigate clear roadways.   

• Access Transit will operate under normal conditions on clear and accessible roadways.  

• OnDemand service will operate on cleared roadways that are accessible to operators.  

• The Transit Customer Service Centre will be open for walk-in customers and phone lines (306-975-3100) will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.  

• Check Saskatoon Transit service alerts for detours or temporary bus stop closures at saskatoontransit.ca/service-alerts. and  

• View real-time bus locations on third-party apps like Transit and Google Transit on desktop. Pin your routes to receive service alert push notifications. 

Leisure Facilities 

• All Leisure Centres (Cosmo (excluding Cosmo Arena), Lakewood and Lawson Civic Centres, Saskatoon Field House and Shaw Centre) are closed today Tuesday, March 5. They are anticipated to re-open Wednesday, March 6, with normal operating hours. 

• Visit saskatoon.ca/servicealerts for the latest impacts to City facilities and services. 
  
  - - - 

Safety Reminders 

• The Saskatchewan Health Authority reminds residents to be careful when you go out to shovel. Shoveling is a significant workout and can put a lot of strain on your heart and back. Follow their recent tips. 

• When shoveling snow, take some time to clear any fire hydrants of ice and snow near your property. In case of a fire, firefighters need to be able to spot and access fire hydrants quickly to protect people and property. 

• Check intake pipes and exhaust vents that may be blocked with snow or ice and clear any snow away from the opening if it builds up. A plugged exhaust could result in carbon monoxide (CO) being pushed back into your home or cause your furnace to shut down.  

• For your safety and the safety of your children we ask that no one climbs on the snow piles or builds tunnels through them as the weight of that snow is very dangerous. 

• Do not push or blow snow into the street. This creates a greater risk for vehicles to get stuck. Instead, pile the snow on your property, as per Bylaw No. 8463 The Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw, 2005. 

With the City of Saskatoon receiving more than 25 cm of snow accumulation since Saturday morning and streets being impassable for light vehicles, the Roadways team has activated the Emergency Response Plan  (ERP). The City’s Emergency Operation Centre has been activated to collaborate with critical infrastructure partners throughout the city. 

A summary of the work underway includes: 

• Saskatoon has in the range of 1600 lane-km of Priority Roads – that’s roughly the distance from City Hall to Vancouver. So far, approximately 95 per cent of Priority 1 Streets, 45 per cent of Priority 2 Streets and 25 per cent of Priority 3 Streets have been graded, far ahead of the anticipated schedule from this morning. 

• Sander trucks continue to spread sand throughout the day on these streets to increase traction.  

• By midnight tonight, Monday, March 4, we expect all Priority 1 Streets to be completed and will immediately proceed with grading on the remaining Priority 2 Streets, which are expected all to be graded by noon tomorrow.  

• Priority 3 Streets are expected to be complete by midnight on Thursday, March 7.  

• The plan is to move into residential areas and start clearing local streets during the night shift on Thursday, March 7. A list of initial neighbourhoods for local street snow grading will be available at saskatoon.ca/snow by Thursday, March 7 and continuously updated as crews make progress – please watch for further information this week. 

• Crews will move into industrial areas after all local streets in residential areas are completed. After that, crews can start addressing alley access; problematic alleys may be addressed sooner pending available resources.   

• The need for the last phase of the plan (Phase 5), which involves city-wide snow removal, will be assessed in the coming days considering factors such as weather conditions and the proximity to the end of the winter season. 

• For a detailed timeline please review the Emergency Response Plan infographic.  

• Right now there are many tall snowpiles along the roadways. Sight-lines may be reduced so drivers should proceed with caution near intersections and crosswalks. 

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about snow grading efforts and the list of Priority Streets by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow and following the City’s social media channels. Stay in the know by checking the latest Snow & Ice Report posted to saskatoon.ca/snowreport. A regularly-updated map of which Priority Streets have been completed is available at saskatoon.ca/prioritystreetsmap. 

A summary of civic services operating normally: 

• City Hall remains open and the majority of civic services are operating as normal.  

• Despite ongoing operational and weather impacts this morning, Saskatoon Transit is maintaining full service this afternoon with no delays exceeding 15 minutes. However, detours and delays can be expected as operators navigate accessible streets. For updates check the real-time mobile app, transit or visit saskatoontransit.ca/service-alerts. 

• Access Transit will continue trips for essential services and medical appointments. Customers are asked to reschedule leisure travel.   

• OnDemand service will operate on cleared roadways that are accessible to operators.  

• City Indoor Rinks have resumed regular operations.  

• The landfill is open but snowy and windy conditions exist so please proceed with caution. 

• Parks is on track to clearing pathways according to route priorities. Within 48 hours of snowfall, snow clearing occurs on sidewalks adjacent to parks and all lighted parkways and some unlighted pathways. Excludes crusher dust (unpaved) pathways. 

• Missed blue cart collection on Monday, March 4 is rescheduled for Saturday, March 9. Blue Cart affected area(s) include Route 4: Briarwood, College Park, College Park East, Lakeridge, Lakewood Urban Centre, Rosewood. 

• Missed black cart collection on Monday, March 4 rescheduled for Saturday, March 9. Black Cart affected areas include Route 1: Avalon, Buena Vista, Exhibition, Haultain, Nutana, Queen Elizabeth. 

• Missed Green Cart collection on Monday, March 4 rescheduled for Saturday March 9.  Green Cart affected areas include Route 2: Adelaide/Churchill, Holliston, Nutana Park, Stonebridge, The Willows.

• All curbside collections for Tuesday, March 5 will go ahead as planned. Please watch for Service Alerts, updates on your Saskatoon Waste Wizard app or go to saskatoon.ca/collectioncalendar. 

• The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo will re-open tomorrow, March 5, with normal operating hours.  

Other Impacted City Operations 

Leisure Facilities 

• All Leisure Centres (Cosmo (excluding Cosmo Arena), Lakewood and Lawson Civic Centres, Saskatoon Field House and Shaw Centre) are closed Monday, March 4 and will remain closed Tuesday, March 5. They are anticipated to re-open Wednesday, March 6, with normal operating hours. 

Building Standards 

• All scheduled building and plumbing inspections for Monday March, 4 and Tuesday, March 5 are cancelled.  Customers with scheduled inspections will be contacted and arrangements will be made to rebook. 

Impound Lot 

• The impound lot is closed for the remainder of the day. Updates on when the service is restored will be available on saskatoon.ca/servicealerts. 

Visit saskatoon.ca/servicealerts for the latest impacts to City facilities and services. 

- - - 

Safety Reminders 

• The Saskatchewan Health Authority reminds residents to be careful when you go out to shovel. Shoveling is a significant workout and can put a lot of strain on your heart and back. Follow their recent tips. 

• When shoveling snow, take some time to clear any fire hydrants of ice and snow near your property. In case of a fire, firefighters need to be able to spot and access fire hydrants quickly to protect people and property. 

• Check intake pipes and exhaust vents that may be blocked with snow or ice and clear any snow away from the opening if it builds up. A plugged exhaust could result in carbon monoxide (CO) being pushed back into your home or cause your furnace to shut down.  

• For your safety and the safety of your children we ask that no one climbs on the snow piles or builds tunnels through them as the weight of that snow is very dangerous. 

• Do not push or blow snow into the street. This creates a greater risk for vehicles to get stuck. Instead, pile the snow on your property, as per Bylaw No. 8463 The Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw, 2005. 

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

MCKERCHER DR SB CURB LANE CLOSED AT ACADIA DR
(Hydrant replacement)
Start: March 5, 9:00 a.m. End: March 5, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

Despite ongoing operational and weather impacts this morning, Saskatoon Transit is maintaining full service this afternoon with no delays exceeding 15 minutes. However, detours and delays can be expected as operators navigate accessible streets.

Access Transit will continue trips for essential services and medical appointments. Customers are asked to reschedule leisure travel.  

OnDemand service will operate on cleared roadways that are accessible to operators. 

The Transit Customer Service Centre will be open for walk-in customers; however, customers are asked to call the phone lines if their trip to the Customer Service Centre is not essential. Phone lines (306-975-3100) will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Winter Transit Tips:

• Stay up-to-date on current weather conditions.
• Dress for the weather.
• Winter driving conditions can result in delays, give yourself a little extra time to get to your destination.
• Saskatoon Transit’s Safe Bus program runs year-round. If you are lost, cold, scared, or hurt, hold up your hand (palm out) in the direction of an approaching Transit bus, or go to a parked bus, & the operator will stop, contact emergency services & provide shelter to the next terminal.
• Keep pathways clear and safe.

Stay informed, check Saskatoon Transit service alerts regarding detours or temporary bus stop closures and view real-time bus locations on third-party apps like Transit and Google Transit on desktop. Pin the routes you use often and receive service alert push notifications.

Visit saskatoon.ca for additional winter weather service impacts.

To report an issue or for more information, contact our Transit Customer Service Representatives at 306-975-3100.

Saskatoon is Our Home and We Live in Harmony with Each Other. Stop Racial Discrimination.

The City has extended the 2024 Living in Harmony Awards deadline by one day due to the unexpected closure of high schools today. Some classrooms have contacted the City to request this extra time as they work on finalizing their submissions. The new deadline is Thursday, March 7 at 5 p.m. Nomination/submission forms are available at saskatoon.ca/LivingInHarmony.

Living in Harmony Awards recognize outstanding achievements in contributing to community harmony through the elimination of racial discrimination in our community. They can be awarded to an individual or organization. Students and school groups can send in submissions that speak to inclusivity and anti-racism using any expressive form (photos, art, written, video, etc.).

The award winners are selected by the City of Saskatoon's Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee and are named on March 21 – the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. March is also proclaimed Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Month annually by Saskatoon City Council.

The Living in Harmony Awards are part of the City’s commitment to making Saskatoon an inclusive and equitable space where racism has no place.

With the City of Saskatoon receiving more than 25 cm of snow accumulation since Saturday morning and streets being impassable for light vehicles, the Roadways team has activated the Emergency Response Plan (ERP). Additionally, the City’s Emergency Operation Centre has been activated and is collaborating with critical infrastructure partners throughout the city. 

Residents remain encouraged to stay home if possible, to leave space for City and contractor crews to do their work and assist emergency services. 

While the snow has mainly stopped, strong gusting winds will create additional challenges causing drifts. Snow crews will continue to address known problem areas as the day progresses. 

The current focus now is to keep all highest Priority Streets open to maintain access to all emergency facilities. Additional contractor resources have been engaged from our emergency response list to support our ongoing efforts. A summary of the work underway includes: 

• Approximately 40% of Priority 1 Streets have been graded. They are slippery and sander trucks will be spreading sand throughout the day on these streets to increase traction. Some of the snow piles are fairly big, impacting sightlines at intersections, drivers should watch for pedestrians and turning vehicles.  
• By midnight tonight, Monday, March 4, we expect all Priority 1 Streets to be completed and will immediately proceed with grading on Priority 2 Streets, which are expected all to be graded by noon tomorrow.  
• After that, we will then start grading Priority 3 Streets and expect to complete them all by midnight on Thursday, March 7.  
• The plan is to move into residential areas and start clearing local streets during the night shift on Thursday, March 7. 
• Crews will move into industrial areas after all local streets in residential areas are completed. After that crews will be able to start to address alley access and problematic alleys may be addressed sooner pending available resources.   
• The need for the last phase of the plan, which involves city-wide snow removal, will be assessed in the coming days considering factors such as weather conditions and the proximity to the end of the winter season. 
• For a detailed timeline please review the Emergency Response Plan infographic.  

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about snow grading efforts and the list of Priority Streets by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow and following the City’s social media channels. Stay in the know by checking the latest Snow & Ice Report posted to saskatoon.ca/snowreport. A regularly-updated map of which Priority Streets have been completed is available at saskatoon.ca/prioritystreetsmap. 

Please do not push or blow snow into the street. This creates a greater risk for vehicles to get stuck. Instead, pile the snow on your property, as per Bylaw No. 8463 The Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw, 2005. 

OTHER IMPACTED CITY OPERATIONS: MARCH 4, 2024 

Saskatoon Transit 

• Operational impacts have resulted in reduced fixed-route service. Detours and delays are expected.  
• Outlying neighbourhoods, with particularly more impacts of snow accumulation, have limited operator access.   
• Access Transit will continue trips for essential services and medical appointments. Customers are asked to reschedule leisure travel.  
• OnDemand service will operate on cleared roadways that are accessible to operators. 
• The Transit Customer Service Centre will be open for walk-in customers; however customers are asked to call the phone lines if their trip to the Customer Service Centre is not essential. Phone lines (306-975-3100) will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 
• For updates check the real-time mobile app, transit or visit saskatoontransit.ca/service-alerts.  

Leisure Facilities & Attractions 

• All Leisure Centres (Cosmo, Lakewood and Lawson Civic Centres, Saskatoon Field House and Shaw Centre) are closed Monday, March 4. 
• The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo is closed Monday, March 4.  
• City Indoor Rinks may be open subject to bookings and Saskatoon Minor Hockey. 

Saskatoon Landfill 

• The landfill is open but snowy and windy conditions exist so please proceed with caution. 

Recycling and Garbage Collections 

• Curbside cart collections are suspended for Monday, March 4. Collections will be rescheduled once the streets are accessible. Please watch for Service Alerts, updates on your Saskatoon Waste Wizard app or go to saskatoon.ca/collectioncalendar. 

Parks 

• Within 48 hours of snowfall, snow clearing occurs on sidewalks adjacent to parks and all lighted parkways and some unlighted pathways. Excludes crusher dust (unpaved) pathways. 

Building Standards 

• All scheduled building and plumbing inspections will be cancelled. Starting Monday, March 4 at 8 a.m., customers with scheduled inspections will be contacted and arrangements will be made to rebook. 

Visit saskatoon.ca/servicealerts for the latest impacts to City facilities and services. 

With the City of Saskatoon experiencing severe weather conditions resulting in more than 25 cm of snow accumulation and impassable local streets in residential neighborhoods, the Roadways team has activated the Emergency Response Plan (ERP). Additionally, the City’s Emergency Operation Centre has been activated and is currently collaborating with critical infrastructure partners throughout the city. 

Residents are strongly encouraged to stay home if possible, to avoid getting stuck in the deep snow and to leave space for City and contractor crews to do their work. 

The current focus now and as snow continues to fall is on keeping Circle Drive and all highest Priority Streets open to maintain access to all emergency facilities. Additional contractor resources have been engaged from our emergency response list to support our ongoing efforts. 

Once snowfall stops, all priority streets will be graded within the next four days (96 hours). For a detailed timeline please review the Emergency Response Plan infographic. Once the Priority Streets are done, crews will move to grading all local streets in residential areas within the subsequent three days (within seven days after snowfall stops). Following this, all local streets in industrial areas will be graded within the following three days (within 10 days after snowfall stops). 

The need for the last phase of the plan, which involves city-wide snow removal, will be assessed in the coming days considering factors such as weather conditions and the proximity to the end of the winter season. 

After the snow stops falling, a regularly-updated map of which Priority Streets have been completed is available at saskatoon.ca/prioritystreetsmap. 

The purpose of the ERP is to guide the Roadways team through a phased approach during major snowstorms, maintaining public safety and restoring mobility on Saskatoon streets and sidewalks. The plan outlines specific criteria for activation, including snow accumulation exceeding 25 cm and/or a combination of snow, freezing rain, and wind severely impacting mobility to the extent that light vehicles cannot travel on city streets. 

Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about snow grading efforts by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow and following the City’s social media channels. Stay in the know by checking the latest Snow & Ice Report posted to saskatoon.ca/snowreport. 

Transit service is being maintained as roadways are cleared and are accessible to operators. Detours and delays are expected.  Outlying neighbourhoods - with particularly more snow accumulation - have limited operator access. Access Transit operates as emergency services only, provided buses can access the area. For updates check the real-time mobile app, transit or visit saskatoontransit.ca/service-alerts. Call 306-975-3555 with any questions or concerns.  

All Leisure Centres (Cosmo, Lakewood and Lawson Civic Centres, Saskatoon Field House and Shaw Centre) are closed as of this afternoon for staff and customer safety. The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo is also closed due to limitations to access the main gate. The City Landfill is open but snowy conditions exist. Saskatoon Public Library locations are also closed to the public this afternoon for regular business. Visit saskatoon.ca/servicealerts for the latest impacts to City facilities and services. 

Today’s ongoing snowfall with high gusting winds causing drifting continues to make for challenging roadway conditions all throughout Saskatoon. City snow crews and contractors are working  hard and around the clock plowing, grading and sanding/salting to get Saskatoon moving, however Transit Schedules will be delayed. 

Today, Sunday, March 3, Transit will have reduced service for fixed route to Priority 1 Streets only.

• Please use the Transit App and Google Transit to see the live location of any bus on the road.
• Access Transit will operate as emergency services only, provided buses are able to access the area.

What Transit users can expect today:

• With blizzard-like conditions continuing in Saskatoon and anticipating an additional 10 to 15+ centimetres of snow,  expect Transit delays and frequency disruptions.
  • There will be frequency and route disruptions throughout today.
  • As roadway conditions improve, updates will be issued on the City’s website and the Transit app.
  • Thank you for your patience while we work through these challenging weather conditions.

Winter Transit Tips:

• Stay up-to-date on current weather conditions.
• Stay informed on the status of your bus. 
  • Transit service alerts regarding detours or temporary bus stop closures and real-time bus locations are available on third-party apps like Transit and Google Transit on desktop.
  • Pin the routes you use often and receive service alert push notifications.
  • Check our service alerts page.
• Dress for the weather.
• Winter driving conditions can result in delays, give yourself a little extra time to get to your destination.
• Saskatoon Transit’s Safe Bus program runs year-round. If you are lost, cold, scared, or hurt, hold up your hand (palm out) in the direction of an approaching Transit bus, or go to a parked bus, & the operator will stop, contact emergency services & provide shelter to the next terminal.
• Keep pathways clear and safe.

Visit saskatoon.ca for additional winter weather service impacts.

To report an issue or for more information, contact our Transit Customer Service Representatives at 306-975-3100.

*** This PSA was earlier posted to our website/and to social media, February 2 at 1:30 p.m. but failed to connect with ours News Subscribers. Our apologies for the technology problem encountered resulting in this delay.***

Environment & Climate Change Canada’s latest Winter Storm Warning forecasts a major winter snowstorm over the weekend for Saskatoon with the potential for heavy snowfall of 25-40 cm, gusty winds, blowing snow, and reduced visibility at times.

With the wind picking up and snow moving into Saskatoon, City snow crews and contractors have been activated and are prepared to respond to this anticipated major snowstorm with plowing, grading and sanding/salting. The primary objective will be to maintain safety and mobility on Saskatoon’s Priority Streets despite the forecast for potentially harsh blizzard conditions.

The following equipment will be used to respond to the snowstorm:

• 17 City graders and 16 contractor graders (additional emergency contractor graders are available, if needed)
• 20 tandem sanders
• 10 snowplow trucks
• 10 one-ton sanders
• 8 sidewalk plows and 5 other pieces of equipment for clearing City-maintained sidewalks.

During this weekend’s snowfall, City crews will plow Circle Drive, expressways and accesses to Fire Stations and Hospitals to help minimize accumulation and maintain mobility and safety for motorists. City and contractor graders will grade city Priority Streets, and sanders will be applying de-icing material as required, beginning with Circle Drive and other high speed and high traffic streets, bridges and intersections.

Blowing snow and heavy drifting is expected to impact outlying parts of the city and City crews will keep a close eye on known problem areas, and some work may have to be redone due to strong winds and ongoing drifting. We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we navigate through these weather conditions.

When a snow event (5+ cm accumulation of snow) is declared, here’s how City snow crews/contractors will prioritize response:

• Priority 1 streets with three or more lanes like Circle Drive, Idylwyld, 22nd Street and College Drive will be plowed within 12 hours after the snowfall ends;
• Priority 2 streets with double lanes like Clarence Avenue, McKercher Drive and Millar Avenue, as well as Saskatoon Transit routes will be graded within 36 hours; and
• Priority 3 streets including school zones, Business Improvement District streets that don’t meet Priority 2 requirements and collector streets, as well as streets that take you through your neighbourhood like Louise Avenue, Howell Avenue and Main Street, will be graded within 72 hours.
• Check out the Priority Street Snow Grading map for more information on what the Priority Streets are throughout Saskatoon. This map is regularly updated to provide the status of snow grading operations.

Residential streets are not included in the City’s regular winter maintenance strategy; this snowstorm’s potential impact on neighbourhood roads will be assessed after Priority 1, 2 and 3 streets are cleared. The City will reassess the situation on Monday morning and make adjustments if needed.

Road conditions deteriorate when heavy snow accumulation combines with gusty winds. And, if Saskatoon receives a heavy, sustained snowfall, the possibility for low visibility and drifting from blizzard-like conditions, streets may be difficult to get around on. To allow our maintenance crews to clear Priority Streets, and for emergency vehicles to move about, the City asks residents to consider postponing non-essential travel and stay off the roads as much as possible Saturday evening and throughout Sunday. 

If you need to go out, adjust your driving for the road conditions, leave extra room in case you need to stop suddenly and watch for blue and yellow flashing lights on road equipment. Please stay back at least 15 m from winter maintenance equipment. 

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation, patience and attention to safety as City snow crews and contractors will be working hard to keep Saskatoon moving this weekend and into next week.

Environment & Climate Change Canada’s latest Winter Storm Warning forecasts a major winter snowstorm over the weekend for Saskatoon with the potential for heavy snowfall of 25-40 cm, gusty winds, blowing snow, and reduced visibility at times.

With the wind picking up and snow moving into Saskatoon, City snow crews and contractors have been activated and are prepared to respond to this anticipated major snowstorm with plowing, grading and sanding/salting. The primary objective will be to maintain safety and mobility on Saskatoon’s Priority Streets despite the forecast for potentially harsh blizzard conditions.

The following equipment will be used to respond to the snowstorm:

• 17 City graders and 16 contractor graders (additional emergency contractor graders are available, if needed)
• 20 tandem sanders
• 10 snowplow trucks
• 10 one-ton sanders
• 8 sidewalk plows and 5 other pieces of equipment for clearing City-maintained sidewalks.

During this weekend’s snowfall, City crews will plow Circle Drive, expressways and accesses to Fire Stations and Hospitals to help minimize accumulation and maintain mobility and safety for motorists. City and contractor graders will grade city Priority Streets, and sanders will be applying de-icing material as required, beginning with Circle Drive and other high speed and high traffic streets, bridges and intersections.

Blowing snow and heavy drifting is expected to impact outlying parts of the city and City crews will keep a close eye on known problem areas, and some work may have to be redone due to strong winds and ongoing drifting. We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we navigate through these weather conditions.

When a snow event (5+ cm accumulation of snow) is declared, here’s how City snow crews/contractors will prioritize response:

• Priority 1 streets with three or more lanes like Circle Drive, Idylwyld, 22nd Street and College Drive will be plowed within 12 hours after the snowfall ends;
• Priority 2 streets with double lanes like Clarence Avenue, McKercher Drive and Millar Avenue, as well as Saskatoon Transit routes will be graded within 36 hours; and
• Priority 3 streets including school zones, Business Improvement District streets that don’t meet Priority 2 requirements and collector streets, as well as streets that take you through your neighbourhood like Louise Avenue, Howell Avenue and Main Street, will be graded within 72 hours.
• Check out the Priority Street Snow Grading map for more information on what the Priority Streets are throughout Saskatoon. This map is regularly updated to provide the status of snow grading operations.

Residential streets are not included in the City’s regular winter maintenance strategy; this snowstorm’s potential impact on neighbourhood roads will be assessed after Priority 1, 2 and 3 streets are cleared. The City will reassess the situation on Monday morning and make adjustments if needed.

Road conditions deteriorate when heavy snow accumulation combines with gusty winds. And, if Saskatoon receives a heavy, sustained snowfall, the possibility for low visibility and drifting from blizzard-like conditions, streets may be difficult to get around on. To allow our maintenance crews to clear Priority Streets, and for emergency vehicles to move about, the City asks residents to consider postponing non-essential travel and stay off the roads as much as possible Saturday evening and throughout Sunday. If you have errands to run, consider trying to get out as early as possible Saturday.  

If you need to go out, adjust your driving for the road conditions, leave extra room in case you need to stop suddenly and watch for blue and yellow flashing lights on road equipment. Please stay back at least 15 m from winter maintenance equipment. 

We appreciate everyone’s cooperation, patience and attention to safety as City snow crews and contractors will be working hard to keep Saskatoon moving this weekend and into next week.

With the likelihood of heavy snowfall this weekend, Saskatoon Transit is committed to providing safe, reliable and accessible transit services to residents.

What can you expect?

• Five (5) centimetres of snow: Expect delays
  • Service may be delayed in some areas of the city.
• Five (5) centimetres to 15 centimetres of snow: Expect delays and potential frequency disruptions.
  • There will likely be delays on many routes, particularly during peak times, such as rush hour.
• Blizzard, Ice Storm, more than 15 centimetres of snow: Expect delays and frequency disruptions.
  • There will be frequency reductions and direct route service from downtown to major terminals will go into effect.
  • As conditions improve updates will be issued on Transit Twitter, the website and the Transit app.

Winter Transit Tips:

• Stay up-to-date on current weather conditions.
• Stay informed on the status of your bus. 
  • Transit service alerts regarding detours or temporary bus stop closures and real-time bus locations are available on third-party apps like Transit and Google Transit on desktop.
  • Pin the routes you use often and receive service alert push notifications.
  • Check our service alerts page and follow @stoontransit on X.
• Dress for the weather.
• Winter driving conditions can result in delays, give yourself a little extra time to get to your destination.
• Saskatoon Transit’s Safe Bus program runs year-round. If you are lost, cold, scared, or hurt, hold up your hand (palm out) in the direction of an approaching Transit bus, or go to a parked bus, & the operator will stop, contact emergency services & provide shelter to the next terminal.
• Keep pathways clear and safe.

Visit saskatoon.ca for additional winter weather service impacts.

To report an issue or for more information, contact City Customer Service Representatives at 306-975-3100.

The City of Saskatoon has lowered flags to half-staff in remembrance of former Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney. Flags will remain lowered until sundown on the day of the memorial service. 

Brian Mulroney will be remembered for transformational change in Canada including enacting environmental protection policies, ushering in a new era of Free Trade in North America, and implementing the GST. Brian Mulroney served as Prime Minister from 1984-1993.

Condolences to the family on the passing of Brian Mulroney.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

No new projects are scheduled to start on this date.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

BROADWAY AVE ROAD CLOSED FROM WILLOW ST E TO HILLIARD ST E
(Hydrant replacement)
Start: March 3, 8:00 a.m. End: March 3, 4:30 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

Environment & Climate Change Canada is forecasting heavy snowfall for southern Saskatchewan, including in Saskatoon, beginning Saturday and continuing throughout the day on Sunday. 

Approximately 20 cm of snow is expected in Saskatoon between Saturday noon and Sunday night, and City crews and contractors are fully prepared to respond to the anticipated snowstorm. 

Road conditions can deteriorate when heavy snow accumulation combines with gusty winds. Because of the possible amounts that will bring low visibility and drifting, city streets will be difficult to get around on. To allow maintenance crews to clear priority streets for emergency vehicles, the City would advise residents to stay off the roads as much as possible Saturday evening and Sunday. If you have errands to run such as grocery shopping or picking up medication, please consider these activities Friday night or first thing Saturday morning. 

If you do need to go out, adjust your driving for the road conditions, leave extra room in case you need to stop suddenly and watch for blue and yellow flashing lights on road equipment. Please stay back at least 15 m from winter maintenance equipment.   

During the snowfall, City crews will plow Circle Drive, expressways and accesses to Fire Stations and Hospitals, to minimize accumulation and maintain mobility and safety for motorists. City and contractor graders will grade city priority streets and sanders will be applying de-icing material as required, beginning with Circle Drive and other high speed and high traffic streets, bridges and intersections.  

Find out what the priority streets are on the Priority Street Snow Grading map. The map is regularly updated to provide the status of snow grading operations. 

When a snow event (5+ cm accumulation of snow) is declared after the snow stops, Priority 1 streets with three or more lanes like Circle Drive, Idylwyld, 22nd street and College Drive will be plowed within 12 hours after the snowfall ends, while Priority 2 streets with double-lanes like Clarence Avenue, McKercher Drive and Millar Avenue, as well as Saskatoon Transit routes will be graded within 36 hours. 

Priority 3 streets including school zones, Business Improvement District streets that don’t meet Priority 2 requirements and collector streets, as well as streets that take you through your neighbourhood like Louise Avenue, Howell Avenue and Main Street, will be graded within 72 hours. 

Residential streets are not included in the City’s regular winter maintenance strategy but impacts on neighbourhoods will be assessed after priority streets are cleared.  

We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we navigate through these weather conditions. 

The City of Saskatoon Leisure Guide is the community’s go-to source for sport, culture and recreation information in Saskatoon.  

The Spring/Summer Leisure Guide will be available online at saskatoon.ca/leisureguide and on display at pick-up locations throughout Saskatoon beginning Friday, March 1. Pick up the guide from any City leisure facility, Saskatoon public library or anywhere the StarPhoenix is sold. Visit saskatoon.ca/leisureguide for a complete list of pick-up locations.

Highlights of the Spring / Summer Leisure Guide (April 1 to August 31, 2024) include information on:

• Saskatoon’s civic Leisure Centres (Cosmo, Lakewood, and Lawson Civic Centres; Saskatoon Field House; and Shaw Centre);
• Lifesaving Society swim lessons at the Leisure Centres and outdoor pools; 
• drop-in and registered programs for children and youth, including free School Break Camps, Summer Play Programs and Youth Centres, featuring various sports and activities;
• the return of the discounted Summer Indoor LeisureCard and other seasonal admission products such as Bulk Tickets (10 pack) for outdoor pools;
• opening dates for spray pads, paddling pools and outdoor pools;
• lifeguard certification training opportunities;
• rates for Holiday Park, Wildwood and Silverwood golf courses;
• Saskatoon’s best summer attractions: Nutrien Playland at Kinsmen Park and the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo.

For more information on the Spring/Summer Leisure Guide, visit saskatoon.ca/leisureguide.

Mark your calendars! Registration for Spring / Summer programs begins Sunday, March 17, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. by logging into to your account on leisureonline.saskatoon.ca or by calling 306-975-2800. 

Private and semi-private swim lessons registrations will open on Monday, March 18.  Registrations are accepted by phone only. Call the Leisure Centre you are interested in taking lessons at to register.

Leisure program registrations processed through Leisure Online are now charged an additional $1.00 (+GST) convenience fee on each program registration. This fee was introduced March 1, 2024 after City Council approved the fee during the 2024-25 budget process in November of 2023.  The revenue from the convenience fee will help support the City’s operating budget.

For more information on how to be prepared for registration, visit saskatoon.ca/leisure-online

Direct bus service from the Special Events Stop (23rd Street and 2nd Avenue) to experience the Saskatoon Blades take on the Lethbridge Hurricanes at SaskTel Centre on Friday, March 1, at 7 p.m., is available at the following times:

• 5:45 p.m. 
• 6:25 p.m.

Post-event drop-off is at the downtown terminal and regular fares apply ($3.00 per trip). Fare can be purchased on your mobile phone using either the TGo or transit app, transfers and passes are also accepted. Typically, buses arrive onsite 30 minutes prior to the end of the event.

Plan your trip to events at SaskTel Centre on Route 333 using the Transit app up to two weeks in advance. Check out the Transit+ feature to help make connections that combine Transit with OnDemand Transit, riide, and Uber. Download the Transit app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Transit service times for special events at SaskTel Centre and other popular destinations can always be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca/plan-my-trip/popular-destinations. Experience the convenience of using Saskatoon Transit to attend all your favourite events.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

No new projects are scheduled to start on this date.

ONGOING

ATTRIDGE DR S EB CURB, CENTRE & NEXT LANE CLOSED AT KENDERDINE RD
(Emergency water main repair)
Start: February 29, 8:00 a.m. End: TBD

CIRCLE DR E WB CURB LANE CLOSED AT WARMAN RD
(Directional boring)
Closure will be set up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
Start: February 29, 9:00 a.m. End: March 1, 3:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE NB CURB LANE CLOSED AT GRAY AVE
(Directional boring)
Start: February 27, 10:00 a.m. End: March 1, 6:00 p.m.

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

Increased ridership leading to higher Transit revenues and lower than anticipated spending for snow clearing have, in part, contributed to a nearly $10 million 2023 civic operating budget surplus.

“I am pleased to report the City’s Civic Operating Preliminary 2023 Year-End Financial Results indicate a $9.9 million (1.68%) surplus,” says Clae Hack, Chief Financial Officer. “The City’s stabilization reserves, designed to deal with unforeseen circumstances such as higher than normal amounts of snow and fuel volatility, have been significantly relied upon in recent years because of the financial impacts from the pandemic. This surplus is recommended to replenish these reserves, so the City is well-prepared to respond to future financial challenges in a sustainable and proactive manner.”

The City of Saskatoon will present the Preliminary 2023 Year-End Financial Results and forecast for the year ending December 31, 2023, to the Standing Policy Committee on Finance on March 6, 2024.

It is important to recall that the 2023 Budget included an ambitious target of $5.7 million in savings in addition to structural budget and other post-pandemic revenue challenges.

“Administration took these targeted savings measures and budget challenges seriously in 2023. We adopted strict discretionary spending and hiring restrictions early in 2023 and continued it for the year. This resulted in approximately $5.5 million in savings,” says Hack.

In addition to the Administration’s savings efforts, favourable external factors experienced in 2023 contributed to the surplus of $9.9 million in 2023 which included:

• Fewer, smaller scale snow events in 2023 compared with typical years resulted in a $5.7 million surplus in the City’s snow and ice management program;
• A higher than anticipated interest rate environment resulted in $1.2 million in additional investment income;
• Temporary closure of Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre for renovations contributed to an overall surplus for Leisure Centres of $1.0 million; and 
• Notably, Saskatoon’s population grew by 14,000 in 2023; this helped contribute to significant increases in Transit and Access Transit revenues which, in turn, supported a quicker return to pre-pandemic ridership with $3.5 million in higher than budgeted revenues.

“While the Preliminary 2023 Financial results are certainly welcome based on the need to replenish the City’s stabilization reserves, it is important to note that this surplus has minimal impact on the 2024 Budget recently approved by City Council. We cannot budget for a future with no snow events, nor can we continue to budget for the $10 million in pandemic relief funding that was fully used in 2023. These items, along with unprecedented inflationary pressures and their impact on City services levels were the focus of extensive budget discussions. These realities have not changed because of this surplus,” adds Hack.

The City Administration recommends using the surplus of $9.9 million, as follows:

• The $5.7 million surplus related to Snow and Ice Operations be added into the Snow and Ice Management Contingency Reserve. This will bring the reserve to a balance of approximately $6.2 million to provide funding in future years for higher-than-normal snowfall; and
• The remaining $4.2 million civic surplus be allocated to the Fiscal Stabilization Reserve, bringing the balance to approximately $5.8 million which will then be available to offset future operating budget deficits or challenges.

“The recommendations presented in this report provide City Council and the public with assurance that the City’s stabilization reserve funds will be replenished and available for future unforeseen financial challenges,” Hack adds. “The City’s approach to stabilization reserves has been a key tool for the City to utilize in addressing unforeseen financial challenges, without impacting service levels. This approach is a proven Municipal Government Financial best practice.”

In addition to the City’s Property Tax Supported or Civic Operating Budget, the City Utilities, funded by Utility charges including Saskatoon Light & Power, Storm Water, Saskatoon Water/Wastewater and Waste Services also posted a surplus of $10.96 million (2.75%).This surplus was largely due to a longer and warmer than normal summer which resulted in higher electricity and water usage. Cost savings were realized as the City’s Utilities also put in place discretionary hiring and spending restrictions for the majority of 2023 in alignment with Civic operations.

For additional context, the Water/Wastewater Utilities experienced three deficits and three surpluses in the past six years (including 2023). The City’s operating budget, including Utilities, is always based on a variety of assumptions including weather fluctuations which impact the financial performance of the utilities significantly. Over the past six years (2018 – 2023), Saskatoon Water/Wastewater has realized an approximate 1.36% positive budget variance, and this has been used to help pay for infrastructure maintenance and required expansion which can help keep future rates lower and reduces the need to borrow money.

The recommendations for City Council on the allocation of the surplus funds in 2023 are subject to the confirmation of the City’s year-end financial status, conducted annually via the external accountant’s audit process. The City’s 2023 Annual Report will be released this summer.

Visit saskatoon.ca/budget.

Saskatoon Transit is warning residents of a Multi-Use-Go-Pass fare scam on social media and through a fraudulent website.  

The fraudulent social media account and posts are promoting a scam offer for a $2.35 Multi-Use-Go-Pass–the actual cost of a Multi-Use Pass is $8.50. Additionally, a website attached to this account is falsely claiming to be a Saskatoon Transit online page promoting "500 free travel cards" through an online survey. This deceptive scheme aims to trick individuals into purchasing a fake pass and disclosing personal information under the appearance of a competition. 

How to identify a potential scam: 

• The scam offers seem too good to be true.  
• The website may not be an official webpage or social media account page.  
• Requests for personal or financial information are a red flag.    

Helpful reminders to help protect residents from potential scammers:   

• The City never requests or collects credit card, bank accounts or any sort of personal information from customers via phone, text, social media, or email.   
• Never give out your personal or banking information, or credit card number via phone, text, social media, email, or on a non-trusted website. It is a best practice to block suspicious phone numbers, email addresses or social media accounts and delete them after reporting.   
• Do not click on suspicious web links.   
• Always verify information from trusted sources:  
  • Official website:  
    • Saskatoon.ca 
    • Saskatoontransit.ca or Transit.saskatoon.ca  
  • Social media channels:  
    • @cityofsaskatoon 
    • @stoontransit 

Scammers typically use the information gathered to get money or commit identity theft.  

Residents should contact their bank if they have become a victim of fraud, and report these types of phone or online scams to Saskatoon Police Service at saskatoonpolice.ca/onlinereporting/fraud/ or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Center, 1-888-495-8501. 

Concerned residents may also call the City of Saskatoon to speak with a Customer Service Representative at 306-975-2400.   

City Council today endorsed a motion to expand the site selection criteria for shelter spaces to be at least 250 metres from an elementary school (Public or Catholic).

This means the proposed location for the emergency shelter in former Fire Station #5 on Central Avenue will not proceed.

The City will continue to support the Government of Saskatchewan in its Provincial Approach to Homelessness through identifying sites for two new locations, each having approximately 30 shelter beds.

The process to date: how did we get here?

Late last year, the Government of Saskatchewan requested the City take the lead role in identifying sites for emergency shelters. The criteria the City developed to search for sites were as follows:

• Room for approximately 30 beds each
• Beds in an open shelter-type hall (with movable wall systems or partitions)
• Some private rooms (accessed internally)
• An area suitable for office space for site staff
• Showers, bathrooms, kitchen
• Internal and external gathering spaces (amenity spaces) available on site be considered
• Proximity to other services should be considered
• Zoned appropriately if possible, or applicable for consideration under the City’s Emergency Residential Shelter zoning provisions

Based on the above selection criteria, former Fire Station #5 on Central Avenue had been identified as a site for one of the emergency shelter locations.

What’s changed?

After hearing community concerns, City Council has directed the Administration use the previously approved criteria and added one additional criterion as follows:

• At least 250 metres from an elementary school in the Saskatoon Public School or Greater Saskatoon Catholic School system.

As a result, all neighbourhood information sessions scheduled for Sutherland area residents and businesses will be cancelled and the Administration will seek alternate sites that meet the new criteria. 

The City will hold a gathering at City Hall on Friday, March 1 to kick off Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Month (March). This gathering will take place between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. in Council Chambers at Saskatoon City Hall. The event is open to all.

Attendees will hear remarks from special guests about the importance of diversity and inclusion and combatting racism in our community. Speakers include: Mayor Charlie Clark, Saskatoon Tribal Chief Mark Arcand, Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission Chief Commissioner Treena Skiora, Executive Director of People Bridge Advocacy Senos Timon, and Métis youth Autumn Calvez.

Chair of the City's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, Amanda Guthrie, will act as Master of Ceremonies.

Attendees will also be treated to cultural performances by Sushmitta Dutta, Ameya School of Dance (“Bollywood Solo”), and USask Confucius Institute (“Chinese Lion Dance”).

Following the program in Council Chambers, the Race Relations Flag will be raised in Civic Square where it will remain raised for one week. 

Since 1990, Saskatoon City Council has proclaimed March Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Month — an opportunity to heighten awareness about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Several activities are planned for the month of March in recognition of cultural diversity and race relations. To learn more, visit saskatoon.ca/RaceRelations.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

33RD ST W MEDIAN LANES CLOSED AT AVE Y N
(Manhole repairs)
Start: February 29, 9:00 a.m. End: February 29, 3:00 p.m.

MCKERCHER DR SB CURB LANE CLOSED AT ACADIA DR
(Hydrant replacement)
Start: February 29, 9:00 a.m. End: February 29, 3:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR E WB CURB LANE CLOSED AT WARMAN RD
(Directional boring)
Closure will be set up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
Start: February 29, 9:00 a.m. End: March 1, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

CENTRAL AVE NB CURB LANE CLOSED AT GRAY AVE
(Directional boring)
Start: February 27, 10:00 a.m. End: March 1, 6:00 p.m.

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

No new projects are scheduled to start on this date.

ONGOING

CENTRAL AVE NB CURB LANE CLOSED AT GRAY AVE
(Directional boring)
Start: February 27, 10:00 a.m. End: March 1, 5:00 p.m.

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

City crews and contractors have worked through the night after 18 cm of snow fell since Sunday evening, plowing, grading and sanding/salting the driving lanes of Circle Drive, expressways, ramps and major arterial roads, with the primary objective of maintaining safety and mobility on Saskatoon's priority streets despite the harsh conditions.

Heavy winds caused snow drifts on some streets and sidewalks that had already been cleared, necessitating return visits from crews. Dropping temperatures are also posing challenges, as it causes the snow to bond more strongly with the road surface, making it tougher to cut through.

Nevertheless, Crews are in the process of finishing work on Priority 1 Streets with the goal of completing them before the end of the day and have also begun work along Priority 2 streets, which will continue into Tuesday night.

Sanding will continue on all priority streets. Find out what the priority streets are and what’s been cleared on the Priority Street Snow Grading map.

When a snow event (5+ cm accumulation of snow) is declared, Priority 1 streets with three or more lanes like Circle Drive, Idylwyld, 22nd street and College Drive will be plowed within 12 hours after the snowfall ends, while Priority 2 streets with double-lanes like Clarence Avenue, McKercher Drive and Millar Avenue, as well as Saskatoon Transit routes will be graded within 36 hours.

Priority 3 streets including school zones, Business Improvement District streets that don’t meet Priority 2 requirements and collector streets, as well as streets that take you through your neighbourhood like Louise Avenue, Howell Avenue and Main Street, will be graded within 72 hours.

Residential streets are not included in the City’s regular winter maintenance strategy.

When planning your travel route, we recommend utilizing major roads whenever feasible and allowing additional time for your commute.

We appreciate your cooperation and patience as we navigate through these challenging weather conditions.

The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval will be wrapping up for the season on Sunday, March 3, 2024.

Public skating hours for the final week of operation are Monday to Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  and 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The City of Saskatoon and Gordie Howe Sports Complex thank citizens for their patronage. Public skating at the indoor municipal rinks will continue to be available in March. Visit saskatoon.ca/leisureonline for the public skating schedule.

Saskatoon received about 18 centimetres of snowfall since Sunday. Strong winds and dropping temperatures created challenging road conditions all throughout the city. The storm ended in the early evening and the fourth snow event of our season was declared.

City snow crews will continue to focus on grading snow on priority streets and applying de-icing materials to improve traction. Snow clearing from bridge walkways and city-maintained sidewalks and pathways is also underway. Additional pieces of equipment were mobilized yesterday to address spot drifting impacting mobility. Dedicated work will continue today to address any remaining problem areas throughout the city.

The City has 26 graders, 10 sanders, six plows and five sidewalk plows moving around the city to get Saskatoon moving. 

The snow event response follows the Priority Street system: 

Priority 1 – Freeways and major arterials. This includes Circle Dr. and streets with three+ lanes each way like Idylwyld Dr., 22nd St and College Dr. 

Priority 2 - Arterials with double-lanes and bus routes. Double-lane streets like Clarence Ave, McKercher Dr. and Millar Ave. 

Priority 3 - Collector streets, remaining Business Improvement District streets and school zones. These streets take you through your neighbourhood like Louise Ave, Howell Ave., and Main St. 

Today’s extreme cold will contribute to icy conditions and de-icing products used to improve traction do not work as well in these temperatures. Sanders will continue to apply de-icing materials and will focus on high speed and high traffic streets, bridge decks and intersections as they have the highest potential for serious collisions.  

Drivers, be aware of changing weather that can affect road and sidewalk conditions and adjust your driving for the conditions. Leave extra room and watch for blue and yellow flashing lights on road equipment. Take extra care to watch for pedestrians and cyclists. 

Learn more about winter road maintenance at saskatoon.ca/snow and stay in the snow at saskatoon.ca/snowreport. 

City Council’s regularly scheduled meeting to be held this Wednesday, February 28, 2024, will have a delayed start time.

Due to several Councillors concurrently attending a key funding announcement, quorum cannot be met at Council’s regular start time of 9:30 a.m., therefore the meeting will commence at 10:15 a.m.

The revised Agenda reflects the delayed start time and anyone requesting to speak at this meeting has been notified.

Watch the Live Feed of City Council’s meeting.

Questions for City Clerks? Contact 306-975-3240.

To learn more about getting involved with your local government by interacting with City Council and its Committees, visit saskatoon.ca/council.

Due to the winter storm, we were unable to complete black cart collection in some areas of Stonebridge and the Willows. We will return to the areas listed below this Saturday, March 2.  

Collection has been rescheduled as follows:

Saturday, March 2

Stonebridge

• Alm Crescent
• Ashworth Crescent
• Assaly Bay, Street
• Baillie Cove
• Blackstock Cove
• Bolton Crescent, Place, Way
• Borlase Cove
• Brainerd Crescent
• Chubb Cove
• Cope Crescent, Lane, Way
• Cornish Road
• Dickson Crescent, Lane
• Dulmage Crescent
• Fawcett Crescent
• Galloway Road
• Gordon Road
• Hartley Road
• Holmes Crescent
• Hunter Road
• Laycock Crescent, Lane
• Lewin Crescent, Way
• Lynd Court, Crescent, Lane, Place
• MacInnes Street
• Martin Crescent
• McBeth Crescent
• McIntosh Court, Street
• Milne Crescent
• Rempel Bay, Cove, Crescent, Lane, Manor, Place, Rise, Way
• Robertson Cove
• Senick Bay, Crescent, Place
• Snell Crescent
• Stepney Crescent
• Stonebridge Common
• Sutter Bay, Court, Crescent, Manor, Place
• Teal Crescent, Lane, Terrace
• Victor Place
• Warder Cove
• Whalley Crescent
• Willis Crescent

The Willows

• Cartwright Street, Terrace

Please place your cart out at 7am on Saturday for recollection. We apologize for any inconvenience and thank you for your patience.

City crews and contractors have worked through the day plowing and grading the driving lanes of Circle Drive, expressways, ramps and major arterial roads. Our goal remains maintaining safety and mobility on Saskatoon's priority streets despite challenging conditions.

Neighborhoods that aren’t fully developed and those exposed to winds are especially susceptible to heavy drifting. To address this, the City has deployed 11 additional pieces of large equipment, including loaders that have been clearing paths in neighbourhoods throughout the day. Areas like Claypool Drive next to the airport are being monitored and addressed continuously due to heavy drifting. Snow fences have proven insufficient against this storm's intensity, and wind can undo work that crews have done, necessitating return visits.

The storm is expected to ease by the afternoon, at which point a snow event will be declared and major cleanup operations, including sidewalk and pathway maintenance, will begin. Grading snow on residential and local streets is not in the budget for normal Saskatoon winters. For more information on the City of Saskatoon’s snow maintenance strategy, head to saskatoon.ca/snow.

We understand the inconvenience posed by snow drifted streets and assure you that crews are working reopen them. Residents can report streets affected by to heavy drifting to our Customer Care Center at 306-975-2476. When planning your route, it's advisable to use major roads as much as possible and allow extra time for your commute.

Your cooperation and patience are greatly appreciated as we navigate through this challenging weather. 

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

CENTRAL AVE NB CURB LANE CLOSED AT GRAY AVE
(Directional boring)
Start: February 27, 10:00 a.m. End: February 28, 6:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

The snowstorm started in earnest overnight and is expected to continue throughout the day today with heavy winds and more snowfall. City crews worked through the night, and remain on the go today, focusing on Circle Drive and major streets. While work has been continuous, further snowfall and heavy winds continue to create drifts, even after crews have cleared the snow. Driving conditions may worsen as the storm continues.      

The priority while it snows is to keep the driving lanes clear along Circle Drive and the busiest freeway and arterial streets. Contractor crews are joining city crews today, grading snow from Priority 1 streets to address heavy drifting and minimize accumulation. There are 26 graders, 11 plows, 10 sanders and 4 loaders grading snow and clearing drifting. When it stops snowing, a snow event will be declared, and all priority streets will be graded of snow within 72 hours.  

Drivers should adjust their driving for the road conditions, leave extra room and time for their commute.  

Please watch for blue and amber flashing lights on road maintenance equipment and leave room for the operators to do their work.  

Learn about winter road maintenance at saskatoon.ca/snow. Stay in the snow with the Snow & Ice Report at saskatoon.ca/snowreport. 

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a winter storm warning for a storm starting tonight and continuing into Monday. This storm is expected to bring snow, and at times, heavy and blowing snow. City crews and equipment are fully prepared to respond to more winter weather. 

Road conditions and visibility can deteriorate with the combination of snowfall and strong winds. Drivers should adjust their driving for the road conditions, leave extra room in case you need to stop suddenly and watch for blue and yellow flashing lights on road equipment. 

We will continue to monitor high traffic streets and apply de-icing material as required, beginning with Circle Drive and freeways. Crews are ready to initiate plowing and snow grading if the snow accumulates. While the snow continues to fall, the priority for crews is to minimize accumulation along high speed and high traffic streets such as Circle Drive, 8th Street, College Drive and 22nd Street.     

Please watch for their blue and amber flashing lights and leave room for road equipment to do their work.   

Learn about winter road maintenance at saskatoon.ca/snow.  Stay in the snow with the Snow & Ice Report at saskatoon.ca/snowreport. 

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

CIRCLE DR E WB CURB LANE CLOSED AT WARMAN RD
(Directional boring)
Start: February 26, 9:00 a.m. End: February 27, 3:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE NB CURB LANE CLOSED AT GRAY AVE
(Directional boring)
Start: February 26, 10:00 a.m. End: February 27, 6:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

2ND AVE S SB LANES CLOSED FROM 21ST ST E TO 22ND ST E
(Transformer installation)
Start: February 24, 7:00 a.m. End: February 24, 10:00 a.m.

RUTH ST E EB LANES CLOSED AT ROYAL AVE
(Sanitary sewer lining)
Start: February 24, 8:00 a.m. End: February 24, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N SB LANES CLOSED FROM 38TH ST E TO 36TH ST E
(Tree pruning)
2-way traffic in NB lanes
Start: February 24, 9:00 a.m. End: February 24, 5:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR W NB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM AIRPORT DR TO AVE C N
(Streetlight repairs)
Start: February 25, 7:00 a.m. End: February 25, 1:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BRIGHTON BLVD ROAD CLOSED FROM TASKAMANWA ST TO 8TH ST E
(Construction)
Use McOrmond Dr
Start: November 20, 2023, 7:00 a.m. End: November 18, 2024, 5:00 p.m.

All restrictions will be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

At the February 14^th meeting of the Governance and Priorities Committee (GPC), the inspiration for a future, vibrant Downtown Event and Entertainment District (District) core was presented through information reports on the Conceptual Design Overview and the Interim District Plan. These reports both position the development of the District as integral to the revitalization of Saskatoon’s Downtown.

“The inspiration came from Saskatoon and its place in nature, in community and in the world,” says Dan Willems, Director of Technical Services. “The intent is to showcase Saskatoon’s past, present and future identity through design, while also improving streets and existing public spaces. The District will honour, highlight and prioritize Indigenous and Saskatoon storytelling, and will be designed to create an ‘outdoor living room’, where people from all over the city and visitors can gather.”

The conceptual designs were created around four pillars, which capture different aspects of Saskatoon’s defining features:

• Urban with a Prairie Heart
• Where the Earth Meets the Sky
• Warmly Embrace the Winter
• Of the Earth

A number of important public spaces are included in the conceptual design, including an outdoor concert terrace and pavilion, a ‘gateway’ plaza at the entrance of the event centre/arena that can also be used for public programing, and a linear courtyard on the east side which will create an intimate, semi-enclosed space for people to walk through, wait for arriving friends, and enjoy food and drink on outdoor patios.

“The District’s public spaces will be designed to meet a variety of needs and demands,” says Willems. “By integrating a mix of supportive uses and a welcoming public realm into the District, both residents and visitors will find many reasons to linger and enjoy all that Downtown has to offer, encouraging earlier arrivals and later stays, diffusing trips across Downtown over many hours, and making trips by all modes of transportation easy and convenient.”

The renderings developed through the conceptual design process illustrate the potential activation of the Downtown area through the process of developing the District. These renderings can be viewed at saskatoon.ca/eventdistrict. The more technical District Plan will further develop a plan for the Downtown overall and looks at how the land can best be used to achieve a vibrant mix of residential, business, social and outdoor activity, while making Downtown more accessible for everyone to get to and around in. Both the Conceptual Design Overview and the District Plan draw on the feedback collected through the Phase 1 Engagement held in spring 2023 to better reflect what community members would like to see while integrating technical considerations.

Moving forward from GPC to the February 28^th Regular Meeting of City Council are a decision report on the Convention Centre options and an approval report on the acquisition of the Downtown YMCA property.

The City of Saskatoon and Government of Saskatchewan continue to work collaboratively on the final details to prepare for the 30-space emergency shelter to be located at former Fire Station #5 (421 Central Avenue).

All partners know that the way the shelter will operate is one of the most important questions on the minds of residents and business owners and recognize the need to get the right plan in place before the shelter becomes operational.

Much progress has been made on developing an integrated plan – but it requires more time to ensure the best outcomes for the entire community and to meet the expectations of Sutherland residents, businesses and workplaces.

The service provider selected by the Government of Saskatchewan – the Mustard Seed -- has shared its operational plans with all partners to run an enhanced shelter model. The Mustard Seed is an established service provider who will be working in Saskatoon for the first time.

An enhanced emergency shelter provides clients with access to the shelter 24 hours per day, seven days per week. Clients are also provided three meals per day, case planning and access to wrap-around supports to address wellness and cultural needs, with assistance in connecting to services such as financial supports and help to transition to appropriate housing along the housing continuum. The enhanced shelter will also be smaller in scale to other shelters in Saskatoon.

The location of the second temporary 30-space shelter in Saskatoon is still being determined.

The Neighbourhood Information Sessions scheduled for February 13 (virtual) and February 15 (at Sutherland Hall) related to the shelter discussion will be postponed, as well as the reports that were being planned for presentation at the February 28 meetings of City Council.

Neighbourhood Information Sessions will be rescheduled within the month and the public will be notified on saskatoon.ca/shelterspaces and on the City’s social media channels with revised dates when they are available.

The City thanks Sutherland residents and businesses for their patience in allowing all the various organizations necessary time to complete the integrated operating and safety plan work.

The Governance and Priorities Committee of City Council will have the opportunity at its February 14th meeting to discuss the visionary opportunities of the Downtown Event and Entertainment District (District).  Included in a group of reports is a first look at the artistic renderings of what the area around the event centre/arena and convention centre could look like and the first look at the strategic directions for the District Plan outlining the template for a rejuvenated Downtown.

“These renderings really help illustrate that the District is much more than just an event centre and convention centre – it is to be a community gathering place in any season,” says Dan Willems, Director of Technical Services, Transportation & Construction Division. “They show the potential of the public spaces, with places for events, amenities and open areas where visitors and people from all parts of the city can meet and share unique experiences.”

The visuals show what the proposed event centre/arena and convention centre could look like, with a focus along a transformed 22nd Street. Both winter and summer scenes are captured, showing the potential for winter festivals, outdoor markets and summer activities.

“This is an opportunity for people in Saskatoon to really see how the vision for the District could become reality,” Willems says. “Up until now we have been talking about the District in very abstract terms, but these images help put context and meaning to the idea of an active space that is open to all. These are by no means the final designs of the area, but they are a great to help visualize the conceptual design and potential in creating a vital and dynamic Downtown, with economic impacts that will have a positive effect on Saskatoon and Saskatchewan.”

The District Plan, which is being developed simultaneously along with the plans for the event centre/arena and convention centre, takes a wider view of Downtown Saskatoon and looks at how the land can be best used to achieve a vibrant mix of residential, business, social and outdoor activity, while making the Downtown more accessible for everyone to get to and get around in. The District Plan will also work to create a cohesive strategy for the Downtown as a whole, ensuring that the entire area develops in a sustainable and productive way.

Additionally in this group of reports to GPC is a Decision Report on acquiring the YMCA building and its associated land. This acquisition, while currently part of the larger District project, is part of the larger strategy to have a contiguous area of land with significant redevelopment potential to accommodate future expansion of the convention centre and a new parking structure in the area of Idylwyld and 22nd Street.

For more information on the Downtown Event and Entertainment District, including the renderings, please visit www.saskatoon.ca/eventdistrict.

Yesterday, City Council approved a new bylaw to enhance the protection of trees on City property. 

Bylaw No. 9957, The Tree Protection Bylaw, 2024 (Bylaw) is designed to prevent harm to trees on City property by addressing various activities such as the attachment of objects to trees, the use of harmful substances like herbicides or other chemicals, and demolition or construction near a City tree. 

“The new Bylaw will help to safeguard the City’s urban forest by providing an effective mechanism to protect and preserve trees on City property,” says Director of Parks Darren Crilly. “This proactive step aligns with the City's commitment to sustainable urban development, acknowledging the vital role trees play in maintaining environmental health, aesthetic appeal and the overall well-being of the community.” 

One of the main requirements of the Bylaw is the approval for any work conducted within six metres of a City tree. This includes activities like construction, demolition or the placement of heavy equipment, vehicles or building materials near a City tree.  

To formalize the Bylaw’s approval requirement and ensure activities near City trees adhere to specific tree protection measures, a new permitting process will be introduced in September 2024.   

“While the Bylaw will help address compliance issues, the City’s enforcement approach will prioritize education and collaboration as the primary course of action,” Crilly says. “The Parks Department will continue to work with industry and civic departments to support the rollout of the new permitting process.”  

In the meantime, residents and developers are encouraged to follow the existing tree protection process by completing a Tree Protection Plan application form found on the City’s website at saskatoon.ca/treeprotection prior to the start of your project.   

The Bylaw does not apply to trees in back lanes, trees on private property, minor landscaping and the placement of lights or extension cords on a City tree during the winter months.  

In addition to the Bylaw, City Council approved updates to the existing City Council Policy, Trees on City Property, which provides Administration with direction on the care, maintenance and protection of City trees.  

For more information on the Bylaw, visit saskatoon.ca/treeprotection. 

At its January 31 Regular Meeting, City Council approved a procurement approach for seeking a private partner for operations management of one or both of the Downtown Event and Entertainment District anchor facilities (event/centre arena and convention centre). This approach lays out how Requests for Proposal (RFP) for potential private partners will be evaluated to ensure anyone chosen meets the vision of the District and is committed to both financial success and Community Benefit outcomes.

“This approval allows us to now take the important step of issuing a request for proposal for a private partner, with a weighted approach that simultaneously help us attract a partner that will not only fund and run a successful operation, but also values and understands the importance of social responsibility and leadership in our community,” says Dan Willems, Director of Technical Services, Transportation & Construction Division.

Following closure of the RFP process, negotiations will be undertaken with the preferred proponent to further refine details surrounding the various elements of their proposal and to determine financial implications of various options including programming and operations management of the public plaza, overall responsibility for future stages of project development and community benefit commitments. 

“The City has been working for several years on the vision of a safe and vibrant Downtown that supports a strong economy,” says Willems. “The potential and possibilities inherent in creating a vibrant District are becoming clearer as planning proceeds. We are taking a ‘shelf-ready’ approach so that if and when the funding model is approved, we are prepared to start working on the project in short order, providing benefits to Downtown in the near- not distant- future.”

More reporting and information on the District project is anticipated in February 2024, including:

• A conceptual design information report
• Convention Centre options decision report
• District Plan update

Project timelines and past decisions are available at www.saskatoon.ca/eventdistrict.

The City of Saskatoon reminds residential and commercial property owners that the City’s 30-Day Assessment Review & Appeal period closes Monday, February 5, 2024. 

If you are interested in filing a formal appeal with the City’s Board of Revision regarding the valuation, classification or content of your property’s assessment, your Notice of Appeal and accompanying fee must be received before Monday, February 5, 2024.

The City’s 2024 Assessment Roll, a listing of all property assessments in Saskatoon, has been open for public inspection since January 2, 2024, and this also closes on Monday, February 5, 2024. Inspection of the roll can be in person at the Assessment and Valuation Office located at 325 3^rd Ave N, one block north of City Hall, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., excluding Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays, or online at saskatoon.ca/taxtool.

Most assessment-related questions can be resolved by speaking with an assessor before deciding to file a formal appeal for your property.  Call the Assessment Office at 306-975-3227, or the Board of Revision at 306-975-3240 for more information on the assessment appeal process.

Detailed assessment and tax information about your property can also be viewed by entering your property’s address into the Property Assessment & Tax Tool.

• Property owners have the option to apply for and pay online for property assessment appeals. Information on this is available at saskatoon.ca/assessmentappeals. To download an appeal form, visit saskatoon.ca/assessmentappeals.

Visit saskatoon.ca/assessment for more assessment information including how to make a change to school tax support, or check this helpful 2024 Assessment Notice guide.

The first of two new 30-bed emergency shelter facility sites has been selected.

The first site will be the former Fire Station #5 Located at 421 Central Avenue, which is anticipated to open as a temporary 30-bed emergency shelter in Spring 2024. Once further investments have been made into the facility by the Government of Saskatchewan, it is expected that the site will be in operation as an emergency shelter for the medium to long term.

The site meets the criteria outlined in an October 11, 2023 report to the Governance and Priorities Committee of City Council and is similar in size to other successful facilities in Saskatoon. Further details will be included in a report to be presented to City Council at its February 28, 2024 meeting. 

In October 2023, the Government of Saskatchewan announced a Provincial Approach to Homelessness that included funding for 60 new emergency shelter spaces in two locations in Saskatoon.

The Mustard Seed was selected by the Government of Saskatchewan to operate the shelters and the City has been asked to identify suitable locations for the two Emergency Residential Shelters.

The City agreed to lead the site selection process after receiving City Council direction at the October 11, 2023 Governance and Priorities Committee. Since then, City officials have worked with the Government of Saskatchewan to find suitable locations to meet those needs.

“There is a crisis of homelessness, both with increasing numbers of people who are without homes as well as the risks that come with colder winter temperatures,” says Fire Chief Morgan Hackl. “The City has repeatedly asked the Government of Saskatchewan for further supports in Saskatoon; they have committed to just that, and the City is supporting the Province and this sense of urgency by agreeing to find emergency shelter locations for those experiencing homelessness.”

The City will retain ownership of the building and proposes to lease it to the Government of Saskatchewan. The Saskatoon Fire Department staff will continue to have a presence in the neighbourhood.  

Next steps involve neighbourhood information meetings with representatives from the City, Government of Saskatchewan and its service provider, The Mustard Seed, that residents and business owners located near the former station will be invited to attend. The facilitated panel discussion portion of the meeting will be recorded and available on saskatoon.ca/shelterspaces for residents to view at their convenience. Information on the meetings will be provided to residents and businesses within a 300 metre radius of the former fire station.  

According to proper City Council procedure, the proposed location will require a number of City Council approvals, including:
 

•        removal of a Municipal Reserve (MR) Designation,
•        below market value lease to the Government of Saskatchewan,
•        duration of a Temporary Emergency Shelter for up to 18 months.

Additional steps for medium to long term use of the former fire station as a shelter will take place later this year. The City has led the site selection process but all costs related to facility operation and facility upgrades will be borne by the Government of Saskatchewan.

Finally, safety and security around the shelter is critical.

“As part of the Provincial Approach to Homelessness, the Government of Saskatchewan has made a commitment to develop additional outreach supports to enhance safety and security around shelter facilities,” says Chief Hackl. “These supports will further improve safety around emergency shelters and other areas impacted by homelessness, mental health and addictions issues.”

S&P Global Ratings (S&P) has today reaffirmed the City of Saskatoon’s credit rating with the highest rating possible, a ‘AAA’ credit rating with a “Stable” outlook. The City has maintained the ‘AAA’/Stable credit rating for twenty-two years since S&P first began affirming the City’s credit rating in 2002.

“We take great pride in S&P endorsing the City’s 22^nd ‘AAA’/Stable credit rating - it reconfirms Saskatoon City Council and its Administration's ongoing commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency," says Clae Hack, Chief Financial Officer.

S&P rates the City of Saskatoon’s institutional framework as “…extremely predictable and supportive…” and bases credit context on having “…effective financial management practices consistently support strong operating balances...”

“It’s an honour to receive the ‘AAA’/Stable credit rating endorsement” says Hack. “It validates that Saskatoon manages municipal finances responsibly, plans for the future appropriately and that we can sustainably deliver high-quality civic services and programs residents expect and rely on today and well into the future.”

S&P’s rationale and outlook contributing to the confirmation of the City’s strong credit rating within the January 15, 2024, S&P Global Ratings Direct® Report states:

• The City “will continue to benefit from a strong and diverse economy that supports budgetary performance, keeping debt issuance manageable and maintaining an exceptional level of liquidity.”
   
• “We expect Saskatoon's strong and stable economy, coupled with a growing population and upcoming tax adjustments, will result in healthy operating balances throughout the outlook horizon.”

• “Saskatoon's strong and prudent financial management is a key credit strength, in our view. The City's management team is experienced and qualified to effectively enact fiscal policies and navigate external risks. Good political consensus is demonstrated by a long track record of passing budgets before the start of the fiscal year with minimal variations from projected revenues and expenses.”

• “We view both management accountability and transparency to be strong, as reflected in ongoing disclosures and grounded assumptions, as well as prudent financial policies.”

• “The City consistently produces robust annual budget documents. It also prepares multi-year operating and capital budgets for upcoming years, alongside comprehensive long-term capital and borrowing plans. This underpins fiscal transparency and discipline, in our assessment.”

S&P Global does note the significance of Saskatoon’s upcoming capital plan in 2024-2026 including key projects such as the City’s Bus Rapid Transit, expansion to the City’s Water Treatment Plant and investment in Land Development that could impact the City’s after-capital balances, one of many metrics used to evaluate a municipalities credit score.

“The City’s capital plan for 2024-2026 includes significant projects that will support the needs of a growing city” adds Hack. “We are confident our financial plans to deliver these projects are robust and utilize the City’s reserves, debt and government funding in a fiscally responsible manner.”

Credit ratings are one of several tools that investors and lenders use when making decisions regarding an organization’s future financial strengths and weaknesses. For the City of Saskatoon, the ‘AAA’/Stable rating serves as an indication of the City’s credit risk and ability to meet its financial obligations in full, and on time.

View reports on the City of Saskatoon’s financial performance and credit rating history at saskatoon.ca.