News Releases

The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo released an exciting new video ‘Caring for Cougars’ following a recent health check on cougars Malcolm and Jethro.  

“Our mandate is to focus on conservation, research, and education” says Tim Sinclair-Smith, Zoo Manager.  “This video provides an opportunity for people to learn more about what goes on when a captive animal visits the vet.  It demonstrates that our facility emphasizes the importance of quality health programs and does more than simply display animals.”

The Zoo has a longstanding partnership with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine focusing on animal health at the facility.  Sinclair-Smith says there are many benefits to highlighting the educational aspects of the animal health program:

• Veterinary students have the opportunity to learn wild animal care skills; and
• It shows school students the detailed, in-depth nature of a wild animal physical exam.

Cougars Malcolm and Jethro came to the Zoo in 2009 and are currently taking up residence in the PotashCorp Ark exhibit.  Cougars are best known for their agility and long powerful bodies.  Their long hind legs allow them to hunt in high speed bursts and are known to use their long tails to steer as they run.

The ‘Caring for Cougars video’ is showcased on the City’s YouTube, Twitter and Facebook pages.  It is also highlighted on saskatoon.ca/zoo and will be played in the Children’s Zoo and Discovery Centre as part of a public education initiative.  

Zoo Hours
Reminder:  the Zoo will be switching to winter hours on Tuesday, September 5, 2017.

• Forestry Farm Park gates will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• The Zoo will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Parking fees will not be charged effective on September 5.  

As a new school year is set to get underway, the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Police Service are advising residents that school zones are in effect beginning September 1^st, 2017. Drivers are once again required to reduce their speed to 30 kph inside school zones between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday to Friday.

This fall, four new school zones will be in effect in the following areas:

1. Stonebridge: Chief Whitecap School & St. Kateri Tekakwitha Catholic School
2. Hampton Village: Ernest Lindner School & St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic School
3. Evergreen: Sylvia Fedoruk School & St. Nicholas Catholic School
4. Rosewood: Colette Bourgonje & St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic School

“We’ve installed one continuous school zone in front of the adjacent public and separate schools in these neighbourhoods to provide a safe path for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers,” says Dave LeBoutillier, Acting Engineering Manager for Transportation. “All it takes to reduce your speed in a school zone is an additional 12 seconds of travel time; something we can all make time to do.”

School zones are marked by reflective, fluorescent yellow-green signs. It is an offence to speed in school zones as well as to make a u-turn, which has been restricted in Saskatoon since 2013. Offenders are subject to fines and the loss of three or more SGI demerit points.

“When drivers fail to comply with speed limits in school zones, they’re not only committing a speed violation, they are increasing the danger to students, parents, teachers and citizens using those school zones,” says Superintendent Brian Shalovelo of the Saskatoon Police Service. “We’ll be actively enforcing school zones from now through to June.”

In addition to physical police presence in school zones, Photo Speed Enforcement is also active in several school zones around the city. This program captures an image and licence plate information for vehicles violating the 30 kph speed restriction, and a fine is then mailed to the registered owner of that vehicle.

Learn more about school zones by visiting Saskatoon.ca/SchoolZones.

Saskatoon Transit wants people to nominate bus stops for improvements or replacement with help of Twitter and Facebook.

The “Bus Stop Blues” Campaign kicks-off today on Saskatoon Transit Twitter, City of Saskatoon Twitter and the City of Saskatoon’s Facebook page.  Over the next three weeks, using the hashtag #busstopbluesyxe, residents will be asked to post a photo and the location of the stop where they would like to see improvements. 

“Saskatoon Transit is listening and reacting to customer feedback,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit.  “This is an opportunity to engage with the public and for the public to help shape the future of Saskatoon Transit.  Our goal is to continually improve the transit experience.”

Following the campaign, bus shelters and stops will be chosen for either replacement or renewal.

The Government of Canada has provided more than $1.5 million through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF) for transit shelter improvements and network accessibility throughout the city - $300,000 will be devoted to the bus shelter and stop improvements.  

Saskatoon Transit values input from citizens and these bus shelter upgrades will work toward the principals outlined in the Growth Plan to 500,000.  

For more information about Saskatoon Transit, visit transit.saskatoon.ca or follow @StoonTransit on Twitter. Plan your route in advance using Google Transit Trip Planner or the Transit App on your mobile device.

With City Council’s approval this week, the City will move forward with developing options to expand the Waste Services Utility. Moving black-bin collection to a user-pay system would reduce property taxes by $8.9 million -- about 4%.  Put another way, this would transfer the cost of some or all waste management services to a monthly utility bill. The City will meet with residents in the fall and report back to Council in early 2018.

“We know this is an important initiative and we want to get it right,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “Residents have many concerns like affordability and increased illegal dumping. So, to hear what people think, we’re going to launch a series of community discussions this fall and gather input on the design of an expanded Waste Services Utility.”  

One option to be explored is a variable-rate utility/user-pay system which offers a number of benefits:

• Creates incentives to reduce the amount of waste residents put in their black garbage cart.
• Allows the City to build a sustainable funding model.
• Extends the life of the landfill.

Wallace stresses the variable fee-for service garbage collection model includes charges based on cart size or collection frequency, not weight.

“Research conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2013 discovered waste utility models can improve waste diversion rates by up to 40 per cent,” Wallace says. “A successful waste diversion program is critical to deferring the closure of the landfill.”

Wallace adds the costs to close the existing landfill and establish a new landfill are estimated at $26 million and $100 million respectively.

The community has set a target of diverting 70% of our waste from the landfill. This means that 70% of waste in Saskatoon will be reused, recycled or composted. In 2016, 22% of waste was being diverted through programs such as the single and multi-unit residential recycling programs. This is the second lowest diversion rate when benchmarked against other Canadian cities.

More information on the City’s Waste Diversion Plan can be found on saskatoon.ca/wastediversion.  

This expansion of the waste services utility supports the Strategic Goal of Environmental Leadership including the four-year priority to promote and facilitate city-wide composting and recycling and the long-term strategy to eliminate the need for a new landfill; It also supports the Strategic Goal of Asset and Financial Sustainability by reducing reliance on residential property taxes and setting long term sustainable rates.

Mayor Charlie Clark finds the ongoing search for financial savings at City Hall encouraging, but he knows that there is work left to do.

“Through conversations, emails, social media messages, and phone calls, I am continuing to hear from citizens that they are concerned about potential tax increases and the financial situation of the City of Saskatoon,” said Mayor Clark. “The people of Saskatoon are expecting us to make sure that their tax dollars are spent wisely and with the largest impact possible.”

The Mayor explained that it is important to find savings in ways that create efficiencies and deliver services more effectively.

“City Council recognizes that citizens want to see the City save money in ways that don’t simply cut services or raise fees for residents,” Mayor Clark said. “Today I am pleased to highlight key examples of how we have done this over the past few years.”

For more than a decade, the City has explored and implemented new ways to improve services and increase savings, while also managing the growth pressures the City faces. The recently released Saskatoon Strides: 2016 Report on Service, Savings and Sustainability highlights the progress the City made to drive service improvements, find savings for taxpayers, and operate more sustainably.

“Sometimes these examples get lost in the mix and we wanted to call attention to them today,” said Mayor Clark. “In addition to the savings featured in the Saskatoon Strides document, the recent 30 Day Challenge empowered staff to suggest avenues for increased savings, and many of the recommendations are around energy efficiencies, using technology more effectively, and cutting internal red tape.”

Mayor Clark reiterated that the City is heading in the right direction to deliver affordable and sustainable programs and services that improve the quality of life for citizens. “Given the City’s recent reduction in funding, it is important that the work of finding cost savings continues. It is also a priority of mine to get the basics right, and I believe that this is what the citizens of Saskatoon expect and deserve from the City.”

August 21, 2017 Meeting

7.1.2.1            2017 Civic Services Survey Results

Decision

*The Committee carried unanimously a recommendation that the information be received.

Background

*The City has conducted the Civic Services Survey annually since the early 1990s. The last survey was completed in May 2016. In March 2016, the City issued a tender for work on the City of Saskatoon Annual Civic Services Survey. Insightrix Inc. (Insightrix) was awarded the contract for 2016 with the option to extend for a second year, which was exercised to conduct the 2017 survey.

7.1.2.2            2017 Citizen Budget Results

Decision

*The Committee carried unanimously a recommendation that the information be received.

Background

*City Council and the Administration consider several factors when building the City’s annual budget including: the population, inflation, capital investments, City Council priorities, performance measures, and public input. Administration has been conducting an annual Online Citizen Budget Survey since 2015 to obtain public feedback on spending priorities. The last Citizen Budget was conducted in 2016. 2017 Online Citizen Budget Results here.

7.2.1             2018 Business Plan and Budget Update (File No. CK. 1704-1)

Decision

*The Committee carried unanimously a recommendation that direction be provided regarding implementation or future reporting on 30 Day Challenge Ideas; and that a letter from the Executive Director of NSBA be received as information.

Background

*At its June 19, 2017 meeting, the Governance and Priorities Committee received the 2018 Budget Update report from the CFO/General Manager, Asset and Financial Management Department. The report outlined that the current projected property tax increase for 2018 was 6.48%, and that the Administration was working on several strategies to develop ideas and help mitigate this property tax impact.

August 15, 2017 Meeting

7.2.4 Victoria Avenue Corridor Transportation Improvements

Decision

*The Committee recommended to City Council that the proposed plan for Victoria Avenue between 8^th Street and 11^th Street be approved; That the amount of $295,000 be approved for Capital Project #2270 – Paved Roads and Sidewalk Preservation from the Transportation Infrastructure Expansion Reserve; and; That the amount of $30,000 be approved for Capital Project #2270 – Paved Roads and Sidewalk Preservation from the Active Transportation Reserve.

Background

*The Victoria Avenue Corridor Review resulted in a plan to address the combination of motor vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists anticipated after the Traffic Bridge is reopened.
*The proposed plan will reduce the number of lanes in the southbound direction from two to one and introduces a cycle track adjacent to the sidewalk on both sides.
*The proposed modifications will proceed in conjunction with water main replacement and road rehabilitation of Victoria Avenue in 2017.

7.2.6 2017 Annual Street Sweeping Work Plan

Decision

*The Committee recommended to City Council that the Administration be directed to implement the pilot program in the seven neighbourhoods outlined in the report; and 2. That following the pilot, the Administration report back on the overall effectiveness of the pilot including, but not limited to, citizen feedback and operational impacts.

Background

*Street sweeping is a core function of the City. Each component of the program is executed to enable mobility, preserve air and water quality, maintain surface drainage, and improve aesthetics of City streets and adjacent infrastructure.

*The annual sweeping program is divided into four main program groupings:

1) pre-sweeping winter debris pickup,

2) spring sweeping,

3) summer sweeping, and

4) fall leaf and debris removal.

*The City is piloting a new spring sweeping approach to improve efficiency, reduce costs and alleviate parking concerns in seven neighbourhoods.
*Factors such as a growing street network; balancing program efficiency with safety and parking convenience for citizens; and an intensive sign/ticket/tow approach continue to put pressure on the sweeping schedule and operating budget.

August 15, 2017 Meeting

Yesterday, City Council awarded two important contracts that will oversee the design of transit villages and development of a Brownfield Renewal Strategy.

“As a community, we have the opportunity to ensure that Saskatoon is able to address the challenges we face and to create a city that responds to the needs of our citizens. By investing in doing this work correctly, we are able to build a city with strong transit options, with neighbourhoods that are connected, and that can respond to our rapidly changing world. At this crucial time in our city’s history, the Bus Rapid Transit system is fundamentally important to achieving this and to being the city that gets it right.” – His Worship Charlie Clark, Mayor, City of Saskatoon

 At its August 28 meeting, City Council approved the award of two contracts:

• Architectural firm, Dialog, to create concept designs for future Transit Villages at key station locations along the city’s future Bus Rapid Transit Red Line, and
• Environmental assessment agency, Dillon Consulting to develop a strategy to address environmental concerns along major transportation corridors through the creation of a Brownfield Renewal Strategy.

Both companies were the highest scoring firms in their respective competitive processes.  Each competition received five submissions from proponents representing industry-leading Canadian and International firms.  All of the proponents have offices in Western Canada; the majority have offices in Saskatoon.

These firms round out the award-winning team currently implementing the City’s Growth Plan, which includes engineering design firm HDR Inc., and engagement planning firm O2 Planning + Design.

For more information about the City’s plans for growth, visit Saskatoon.ca/growth.

Saskatoon’s growth initiatives are shaping the future of our city and community.  These plans are working together to guide how Saskatoon will grow in the decades ahead, and advance the City’s Strategic Goals of sustainable growth, quality of life, environmental leadership, and moving around.

City Council designated Third Avenue United Church as a Municipal Heritage Property in a unanimous vote at its meeting Monday afternoon.  The move comes following a recommendation made by the Saskatchewan Heritage Foundation’s Review and Appeals Committee.

“As the Administration has maintained, the property warrants designation,” says Lesley Anderson, Director of Planning and Development.  “Third Avenue United Church is one of most prominent heritage structures in the City, and has significant historical, architectural, aesthetic and cultural value.”

Under The Heritage Property Act, designated properties are provided protection in the form of a bylaw that is registered against the title of the property, and continues to apply with ownership changes.

“Once a property is designated, it is protected from demolition or unsympathetic alterations,” Anderson says.

The Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee asked for the heritage designation to include the exterior and two interior elements, the hammer-beam rafters and the Cassavant organ.

The Heritage Property Act does not require the property owner’s permission to file either the Notice of Intention to Designate or for City Council to pass the bylaw to designate the property.

In 2016, the City of Saskatoon received another ‘AAA’/Stable Credit rating from S&P Global Ratings, recognizing its strong commitment to financial stewardship and transparency. The City’s ongoing commitment to accountability, credibility and clarity in financial reporting is reflected in the 2016 Annual Report - Shaping Our Financial Future now available online.

“As we continue our work on building a better community and delivering high-quality public services, the City’s decision-making process is guided by strong financial planning,” says City Manager Murray Totland. “Our dedication to fiscal responsibility, solid planning and listening to the public – all combine to make Saskatoon a leader in municipal government.”

Totland says in the midst of a challenging economic climate the City continues to look for ways to enhance productivity and reduce costs -- whether building bridges, rehabilitating roadways, or improving services that residents count on every day.

Totland points out the majority of 2016 and 2017 Civic Services Survey respondents agree the City continues to provide a good or very good quality of life, and continues to head in the right direction.

 “Our continuous improvement and smart investments are making a positive difference in our community,” he says. “We are focused on improving service delivery, building amenities, finding cost savings and responsibly managing our debt.”

2016 Achievement Highlights

• Through the Building Better Roads Program, approximately $58.6 million was invested to improve road conditions.  The investment for 2016 was approximately $5.1 million higher than that provided in 2015.
• Completed demolition and construction of all piers at the Traffic Bridge; steel erection of spans underway.  Completed Pier 1 and Pier 2 at the North Commuter Parkway and the east and west abutments neared completion.
• Completed construction of the new Saskatoon Transit Operations Facility and the City’s first Snow Management Facility as part of the new Civic Operations Centre.
• Implemented Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) to provide the communication network for smart meter data to be sent digitally to the City, reducing lost revenues and decreasing operating costs for utilities while improving customer service by providing actual meter reads each month.
• Launched Service Saskatoon, a brand built on four pillars: Citizen Input, Staffing, Systems, and Standards. Developed a dedicated webpage for the public to receive updates and the status of projects for each pillar.  In partnership with Shaw Communications, launched the City’s complimentary public Wi-Fi initiative.
• Worked with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Métis Federation Inc., and 54 supporting organizations to launch a month-long series of activities to promote Reconciliation in Saskatoon.

City Council previously approved the 2016 Audited Consolidated Financial Statements, and Trust Fund Financial Statements on June 26, 2017, following a report from external auditor, Deloitte LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants. The Annual Report will be presented to City Council on August 28, 2017.

“I encourage residents to find out more about how we’ve invested in what matters to citizens, and the City’s many accomplishments in 2016,” Totland adds. “We always work toward building a great quality of life for everyone as we shape Saskatoon’s financial future.”

Visit saskatoon.ca/financialreports to view the major projects and initiatives within the 2016 Annual Report, and other Corporate Reports from the City of Saskatoon.

The City is continuing to receive reports of members of the public disrespecting work zones and compromising worker and public safety. The single biggest issue continues to be disregarding work zone signage and barriers and entering work zones.

“The City has strict practices for work zone set-up and management and it’s something we take very seriously,” says Cory Funk, Traffic Operations & Control Manager. “It can be frustrating when our crews take a great deal of time and care to ensure their work zones meet safety protocols, but then to see signage, cones or barriers ignored and the work zone compromised.”

Funk understands that road users can experience frustrations when they see a work zone in place where there doesn’t appear to be any work underway. However, he says it’s just as important that people respect signage even when workers are not present. Barriers remain in place for a number of reasons that aren’t always visible such as when road or roadside hazards are present or when fresh road treatments are setting.

It’s also important to note that work zones can come in various forms and are not just the typical roadwork construction areas that people are accustomed to seeing. A work zone is a signed zone around any work area that’s in place to protect workers and members of the public. The landfill is a permanent work zone and visitors will note the permanent placement of work zone signage and barriers. Parks can also include work zones when crews are using equipment to undertake maintenance and improvement work. Since not all work zones look the same, Saskatoon residents are advised to watch for workers and signage wherever they go.

The Respect Work Zones campaign supports the City Council Strategic Priority (2016-2020 Term) of Transportation. This year, through the Building Better Roads program, City Council is investing $61 million to build, maintain and repair sidewalks and roadways in local neighbourhoods in addition to other projects around the city. 

The City of Saskatoon is very pleased with the progress that has been made on the construction of the North Commuter Parkway and new Traffic Bridge. The two bridges and accompanying roadways are part of the Bridging to Tomorrow project, which remains on track for completion in October 2018.

“At the North Commuter Parkway, all of the in-river piers are now in place,” says Dan Willems, Director for Major Projects and Preservation. “The structural steel for the remaining two spans of the bridge are have been installed and the bridge is progressing on time and as planned.” 

As for North Commuter Parkway roadway work, new southbound lanes on Central Avenue from Attridge Drive to Fedoruk Road opened to traffic earlier this summer and new northbound lanes are now being reconstructed. Sound wall construction is nearly complete along Attridge Drive west of Central Avenue and is ongoing along Attridge Drive east of Central Avenue. The six-lane North Commuter Parkway will connect Saskatoon’s Marquis Industrial Area to neighbourhoods on the east-side. It will also accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.

The new Traffic Bridge looks similar to the old traffic bridge but is slightly wider and taller in order to accommodate wider traffic lanes, wider pathways on both sides, and overhead clearance for emergency vehicles. Once complete, it will once again serve as a convenient link for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists crossing the South Saskatchewan River.

“All of the Traffic Bridge trusses are now in place and bridge deck construction continues. Crews are also working on the Saskatchewan Crescent overpass and retaining walls in Rotary Park. The retaining wall on Victoria Avenue is now complete and utility work is ongoing in the area,” says Willems.

Bridging to Tomorrow project updates, including detailed monthly summaries, links to live cameras at each bridge site, and quarterly video updates, are available at saskatoon.ca/bridging.

In person, anyone can watch Traffic Bridge progress at the River Landing viewing area. North Commuter Parkway construction can be viewed from the Meewasin Trail just east of the cul-de-sac at the north end of Kinnear Avenue (north of Silverwood Golf Course). 

Citizens are increasingly more satisfied with City services says the latest Civic Services Survey.  This is one of the many results from the 2017 Civic Services Survey and Citizen Budget, both of which will be presented next week to the Governance and Priorities Committee.

The results are one important way the City gathers input to understand the needs and perceptions of citizens, and to identify areas which need added focus in the coming year.  City Council and Administration will consider the information gathered to help shape the City’s Corporate Business Plan and Budget for 2018.

“It’s great to see citizens’ continue to have an overall high level of satisfaction with the many services the City provides.  Since 2013, overall satisfaction provided by the City has seen an increase,” says Carla Blumers, Director of Communications. “When comparing the latest results with 2013, satisfaction increased from 83% to 88% for telephone respondents.  It is even more encouraging when you see online respondents overall satisfaction moving from 73% to 85%.”

In 2015, the City established a performance target of overall satisfaction with civic services of 90% or more. “Looking at the 2017 Survey results, it shows how close citizens feel the City is to getting over the goal-line,” says Blumers.

The majority of respondents on the survey continue to rate the quality of life as high (89% telephone and 85% online).  These results have held steady since 2013.

“While the most important issue facing the City continues to be roads and sidewalks, significantly fewer citizens identify this as the most important issue when compared with the 2013 results,” says Blumers.  The investment in the Building Better Roads program since 2014 is definitely making a difference.  In 2013, 35% of telephone and 31% of online respondents cited roads as the number one issue. By 2017 the percentage declined by 15% for telephone and 17% for online respondents. 

Civic Services Survey Highlights:

• 89% of telephone and 85% of online respondents rate the quality of life in Saskatoon as good or very good. A majority feel the quality of life has remained the same or improved within the last three years.
• 79% of telephone and 74% of online respondents agree the City is on the right track to making Saskatoon a better city 10 years from now.
• Roads and sidewalks continue to be the most important issue facing the city, followed by crime/policing, taxation levels, social issues and spending.
• Several specific services saw increases in satisfaction from online respondents, including: repair of water main breaks, removing contaminants from waste-water, maintenance of roadways and freeways, and street maintenance in one’s neighbourhood.
• Overall satisfaction with the quality of City information and communications is strong among both telephone and online respondents (85% telephone, 88% online).
• When interacting with the City, citizens give high ratings for customer service related activities such as staff being courteous, helpful, knowledgeable, and practicing open and accessible government. Respondents provide lower ratings for community engagement related activities such as using input from the public in decision-making, and allowing citizens to have meaningful input.
• The majority of residents believe they receive good value for what they pay in property taxes (84% telephone and 76% online). This question was last asked in 2014 where results were significantly lower.
• The majority of citizens would prefer a combination of user fees and property taxes as the most appropriate way to pay for services and balance the City’s operating budget.

Citizen Budget Highlights:

• The combined engagement results from the online Citizen Budget tool and Civic Services Survey show that citizens prefer to keep service levels/spending the same for eleven categories.  The exception is a slightly higher preference to increase service levels/spending on roads and affordable housing.
• However, the percentage of citizens who identified a preference to increase service levels/spending for Road Maintenance is significantly lower than the previous year (52% in 2017 versus 63% in 2016).

A total of 500 telephone and 800 online surveys were completed for the Civic Services Survey. There were nearly 1,600 unique visitors to the online Citizen Budget tool and 554 citizens submitted a response.

The Civic Services Survey and Citizen Budget are one of many citizen inputs that will help to inform City Council during discussions on the 2018 Corporate Business Plan and Budget plans.

The detailed findings of the 2017 Civic Services Survey  and the 2017 Citizen Budget are available at saskatoon.ca/financialfuture.

Saskatoon road users may be noticing fresh line paint on a number of roads and crosswalks around the city. So far this construction season, 734.4 kilometres of roadway have had fresh lines painted and an additional 8.3 kilometres of durable line markings (lasting 7 to 10 years) have been applied on high traffic roads like Circle Drive and Idylwyld Drive. The city’s 1,004 crosswalks have received their first coat of paint, and 376 have also now received the second and final coat of paint for the season.

“Our line painting program has been running smoothly this season with few disruptions from maintenance issues, weather, or anything else,” says Jay Magus, Acting Director of Transportation. “The recent heavy rainfalls did mean there were a few days we couldn’t get out there, as we can’t paint when the road surfaces are wet, however our program remains on schedule.”

The City is testing a new surface-applied durable marking product on crosswalks at high traffic locations this season. It was applied to 36 intersections on major arterial roads like 22nd Street, 8th Street, and College Drive. The more durable marking should mean the crosswalks stay in place longer and result in a reduction in the amount of time crews need to be set up in high traffic areas.

Some of the remaining line painting work to be carried out in 2017 includes:

• Approximately 200 kilometres of lines left to mark;
• 628 crosswalks remain to receive a second coat of paint;
• Installation of durable chevrons in the gore points around Circle Drive.

The projected budget for the 2017 line painting program is approximately $1.1 million. The program is expected to wrap up for the season at the end of September. Learn more by visiting saskatoon.ca/betterroads and clicking on ‘Line Painting’.

Today, in a report to the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services, City Administration outlined options to expand the Waste Services Utility. Expanding the Waste Services Utility would mean reducing property taxes and transferring the cost of some or all waste management services to a monthly bill. A variable-rate utility would provide additional incentive for people to reduce the amount of waste they put in their black garbage cart, allow the City to build a sustainable funding model, and extend the life of the Landfill. The variable fee-for service model for garbage collection includes charges based on cart size or collection frequency, not weight.

“Because waste services can also vary by household, it makes sense to consider charging utility fees in a way similar to water and electricity. An expanded waste utility could provide residents with more control over the amount they pay, by reducing the amount of waste they throw in their black cart or garbage bin - extending the life of the landfill,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “We put almost 100,000 tonnes into the landfill every year, but more than 75% could be diverted through programs like recycling and composting.”

Wallace says research conducted by the US Environmental Protection Agency (2013) found that waste utility models can improve waste diversion rates by up to 40%. A successful waste diversion program is critical to deferring the closure of the landfill. The costs to close the existing landfill and establish a new landfill are estimated at $26 million and $100 million respectively.

The community has set a target of diverting 70% of our waste from the landfill. This means that 70% of waste in Saskatoon will be reused, recycled or composted. In 2016, only 22% of waste was being diverted through programs such as the single and multi-unit residential recycling programs. This is the second lowest diversion rate when benchmarked against other Canadian cities.

The expanded Waste Services Utility was identified within the Waste Diversion Opportunities report presented to Council in May 2017. Outcomes from this report will be the focus of community discussions planned for the fall.

The Waste Service Utility Design Options report can be found on saskatoon.ca/wastediversion.

This expansion of the waste services utility supports the Strategic Goal of Environmental Leadership including the four-year priority to promote and facilitate city-wide composting and recycling and the long-term strategy to eliminate the need for a new landfill; It also supports the Strategic Goal of Asset and Financial Sustainability by reducing reliance on residential property taxes and setting long term sustainable rates.

Today, in a report to the Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services, City Administration highlighted opportunities to divert organics from the landfill.

“Every year, 32% of all material put into our regional landfills is organic food and yard waste. And, organics still make up 58% of our single family residential garbage.” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “If we want to reach our target of diverting 70% of our waste from the landfill, organics represents our single biggest opportunity.”

Wallace says a successful waste diversion program is critical to deferring the closure of the landfill. The costs to close the existing landfill and establish a new landfill are estimated at $26 million and $100 million respectively.

The diversion of organics was identified within the Waste Diversion Opportunities report presented to Council in May 2017. Outcomes from this report will be the focus of community discussions planned for the fall. Preliminary results from a recent Waste and Recycling Survey completed by Insightrix in July 2017 indicate that 79% of residents strongly or somewhat support city-wide food and yard waste (Green Cart) collection for all households.

The Green Cart Program has grown significantly since 2015, with 11% of single-family households now subscribing. However, the current Program is financially unsustainable and is not likely to divert an amount significant enough to influence the City's waste diversion targets to sustain the landfill.

The Organic Opportunities Report can be found on saskatoon.ca/wastediversion.

Exploring options for a city-wide organics program supports the Strategic Goal of Environmental Leadership including the four-year priority to promote and facilitate city-wide composting and recycling and the long-term strategy to eliminate the need for a new landfill and to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions tied to City operations. In addition, it supports the Waste Diversion Performance Target to divert 70% of waste by 2023.

Earlier this year, City Council requested a Market Sounding be initiated by the Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA) to determine what conditions are required to attract a grocery store to locate in the Downtown.

“It was important to Council to determine both the level of interest and the barriers that exist to establish a grocery store in downtown Saskatoon," says Councillor Cynthia Block.  "Getting feedback from grocers, food cooperatives, and developers who would be interested in owning/operating a grocery store will help Council determine next steps."

Now complete, SREDA’s Market Sounding report reveals key challenges expressed by industry partners, such as the current population density, cost of land, rent, construction, and establishing a site in an appropriate location with the desired building size and adequate parking.  Grocers who participated in the Market Sounding were asked whether or not they were currently interested in locating in Downtown Saskatoon.  Most indicated they had no desire as the current population is not sufficient to support a store.

"SREDA's research concluded that industry continues to be interested in the Saskatoon market; however, currently there is insufficient population to support a downtown grocery store.  That being said, if the downtown population continues to grow, and we develop the right mix of incentives and business conditions, we are hopeful that it's a case of when, and not if, a grocer will invest in our downtown," says Alex Fallon, President and Chief Executive Officer of SREDA.

Given the findings, the Administration is recommending to City Council that efforts be focused on increasing the number of residents in the Downtown, particularly in the north end where there is already a large concentration of residential buildings.

Current incentives in place for residential development in the Downtown, such as Vacant Lot and Adaptive Reuse Incentive Program Policy No. C09-035, are being recommended for review with the goal of making them more accessible, comprehensive, and effective in attracting developments.  These incentives may also target specific locations in the Downtown as a means to address population density.

“A robust suite of incentives aimed at prospective grocery stores will be prepared for Council’s consideration so that when a grocer comes forward, development of a grocery store can be expedited,” says Randy Grauer, General Manager, Community Services Department.

For a copy of the Market Sounding report, please visit saskatoon.ca/citycentre, or contact the Planning and Development Division at 306-975-7697.

Saskatoon was under a severe thunderstorm warning on Tuesday afternoon. A heavy rainfall warning quickly followed just after 1:20 p.m. The rain system was the most intense in east-central neighbourhoods, knocking out power in Avalon, Nutana, Adelaide/Churchill and Holliston. These areas experienced localized intensity from the storm system, washing out a number of roads. Although intense for the areas with the heaviest rainfall, this storm is considered to be between a one in two year, and one in five year event.

“This is the second time in less than a month that we have been hit with a system so intense that our storm sewer system simply can’t keep up – the systems in older neighbourhoods are not designed to take on so much water within a very short period of time,” said Galen Heinrichs, Water and Sewer Engineering Manager, Transportation and Utilities. “City rain gauges measured accumulations ranging from 25 mm in the southeast around Avalon and Churchill to between 1 mm and 3 mm in areas of the northwest.”

City crews were kept busy closing roads where water wasn’t receding, clearing grates, ensuring manhole covers were in place and cleaning up debris. Outdoor swimming pools closed and Saskatoon Transit routes were affected due to the heavy rain. The storm also forced the closure of PotashCorp Playland, the landfill and the compost depot at 11th Street West and Highway 7. The City has also received calls about some downed trees and branches due to wind gusts during the storm.

The Saskatoon Police Service and Saskatoon Fire Department were also kept busy responding to storm related calls. 

Major upgrades to local infrastructure are well underway in several locations throughout Saskatoon thanks to support from federal and provincial governments as part of the 2017 Water Main, Sanitary Lining and Lead Water Pipe Replacement Initiative.

“I am pleased to see work progressing so quickly in Saskatoon,” said the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “Modern, efficient water infrastructure is essential to the well-being of Canadian families and the sustainable development of our communities. These projects will improve the reliability of Saskatoon’s water and wastewater systems while protecting the local environment.”

Warm, dry weather this summer has allowed for work on the initiative’s first five neighbourhoods to progress quickly, with few interruptions.  Work at the final three project locations starts this month, keeping the initiative on schedule.  So far this year, over 15,000 properties in Saskatoon have benefitted from extensive water main replacement, sanitary replacement/rehabilitation or sewer main inspection work including 464 lead water service pipes replacements.

As underground infrastructure work is completed, street reconstruction is being done to improve the quality of neighbourhood roadways. Currently 8 lane kilometres of roadways have been paved.

“The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to be working with its federal and municipal partners by investing up to $7.9 million toward this important Initiative which will improve these Saskatoon neighbourhoods, enhance the quality of life for the citizens who live in them, and contribute to strengthening the overall infrastructure of this great province,” said the Honourable Donna Harpauer, Minister of Government Relations.

The intent of this initiative is to accelerate short-term municipal investments while supporting the rehabilitation of water and wastewater infrastructure to meet immediate priorities for clean water and healthier environments for communities.

“Our residents have expressed a desire to have lead lines replaced and water and sewer infrastructure improved as soon as possible,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction and Design. “These funding dollars have allowed us to accelerate our timeline and get the work done at a rate they can be happy with.  Fewer watermain breaks, smoother roadways, and access to clean water all add up to a better quality of life. ”

Through the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund, the Government of Canada is contributing up to $15.8 million, the Government of Saskatchewan is contributing up to $7.9 million, and the City of Saskatoon is contributing $7.9 million toward this initiative worth a total of $31.6 million.

The City is also contributing an additional $11.7 million to water and sewer replacement projects as part of its annual programs.

City Council Decisions In Brief

From the July 26, 2017 Regular Meeting of City Council

9.7.1 Award of Contract - Bus Rapid and Conventional Transit Planning, Design, and Engineering Services Request for Proposals

Decision

*Council approved the award of contract to HDR Corporation for planning, design, and engineering services for a total contract amount of $3,052,726.44 (including taxes).

Background

*Enhancements to the current transit system, and the implementation of the Bus Rapid Transit system, have been identified in the Growth Plan as a high priority moving forward. Effective September 15, 2016, several Growth Plan projects received approval for federal funding support through Phase 1 of the Infrastructure Fund. The combination of City and federal funding brings the total amount of the City’s eligible Infrastructure Fund projects dedicated to infrastructure design to $7.6 million.

9.7.2 Rotary Clubs’ Gazebo Project - Rotary Park  

Decision

*Council approved the request by five Rotary Clubs of Saskatoon to design, construct, and donate a gazebo for installation in Rotary Park, subject to administrative conditions.

 Background

*The Rotary Clubs submitted a letter of intent to the City on July 6, 2017, making the proposal as a way to commemorate the 100^th Anniversary of Rotary Clubs in Saskatoon.

9.11.2 Provincial Disaster Assistance Program

Decision

*Council agreed to apply to the Ministry of Government Relations of the Province of Saskatchewan to be designated as an Eligible Assistance Area under the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program, as a result of excessive rain which occurred on July 10, 2017.

Background

* It is the Administration’s understanding that damage caused by excessive amounts of rain would qualify under Saskatchewan’s Provincial Disaster Assistance Program. The minimum criterion for a declaration is one claim of $5,000 or several smaller claims totaling $25,000. Based on calls received to date, Saskatoon has met the requirements.

*In order for individual citizens to receive assistance under the provincial program, the City of Saskatoon must be designated an Eligible Assistance Area.

*Update as of Friday July 28, 2017, the Province of Saskatchewan approved the City of Saskatoon’s application to be designated as an Eligible Assistance Area, making residents eligible for assistance under the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program (PDAP).

With the full impacts of the construction season upon us, it’s more important than ever that Saskatoon drivers are remaining patient, alert and cautious when navigating work zones. It’s easy to grow frustrated when encountering construction delays and detours, but the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Police Service are sending a message that any driver behaviour that disrespects workers or compromises safety will not be tolerated.

“This is the time of year that we usually start to see growing impatience on the roads in response to our heavy volume of active roadwork,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation & Utilities. “Which is why this is the perfect time in the construction season to remind drivers that disrespecting workers or work zone signage isn’t an option. Our workers have the full support of the City and the Saskatoon Police Service in protecting work zones and this is for their safety as well as the safety of all road users.”

Drivers are required to slow to 60 km/hr when posted. Regular fines triple in construction zones, with tickets starting at $300 and the possibility of vehicle impoundment or license suspension. Drivers are also required to obey flag people; disregarding their signals can result in a ticket or a criminal code charge such as dangerous driving.

“Since May 1, we’ve issued close to 200 work zones tickets,” says SPS Acting Sergeant, Pat Foster. “Our Traffic Unit conducts regular enforcement of work zones and we also act on reports and surveillance footage provided by construction workers. One of the most expensive tickets we’ve issued so far this construction season was for $764 when a driver was clocked at 116 km/hr in a 60 km/hr work zone.”

Saskatoon drivers are reminded to allow a little extra time when using the roads at this time of year. As well, the City hosts helpful trip planning tools at saskatoon.ca/betterroads that can help drivers reroute their commute around active construction.

The Respect Work Zones campaign supports the City Council Strategic Priority (2016-2020 Term) of Transportation. This year, through the Building Better Roads program, City Council is investing $61 million to build, maintain and repair sidewalks and roadways in local neighbourhoods in addition to other projects around the city. 

The City of Saskatoon is moving forward with implementation of its Growth Plan to Half a Million.  In preparation for a public launch in fall 2017, Saskatoon City Council today awarded contracts for the planning and design of the City’s future Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, and city-wide Growth Plan Engagement. 

At its July 26 meeting, City Council approved the award of two contracts:

• BRT planning and design experts, HDR Inc., with sub-consultants CIMA+ and Dillon Consulting, to work on detailed planning and design for Saskatoon’s city-wide Bus Rapid Transit and Conventional Transit system, and
• Planning and engagement firm, O2 Planning + Design to work with the City to develop scalable in-person and online engagement in support of multiple Growth Plan projects.

Both firms were the highest scoring firms in competitive bid-processes that drew international attention from industry-leading teams.

City Administration will make two additional recommendations in August for contracts relating to the Transit Village Concept Design along the BRT lines, and a Brownfield Renewal Strategy in support of the Corridor Growth Program.

Background:

At its April 25, 2016 meeting, Saskatoon City Council approved in principle the Growth Plan to Half a Million which includes plans for a re-envisioned transit system based around Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and infill at strategic locations in the city including downtown, the university endowment lands and along major transportation corridors.  Following this approval, the City created a Ten Year Action Plan to advance a number of the growth plan’s core initiatives.

The City and the Government of Canada will share in a total contribution of $7.65 million towards these growth projects through the Public Transportation Infrastructure Fund.  In support of these projects the City has issued Requests For Proposals (RFPs) on a number of projects:

• Bus Rapid and Conventional Transit Planning, Design and Engineering Services
• Transit Village Concept Plans
• Growth Plan Engagement
• Corridor Growth Program – Brownfield Renewal Strategy

Quotations:

“As Saskatoon continues to grow, it is important that our transit options are strong, that citizens are able to get around and that neighbourhoods are connected. The implementation of our Bus Rapid Transit system is crucial in achieving this and to creating a truly 21^st Century City, one that is ready to address the needs of people and respond to rapidly changing technology. It is important that the investments being made in transit are as effective and efficient as possible so that we can be the city that gets it right.” – His Worship Charlie Clark, Mayor, City of Saskatoon

This update highlights some of the ways the City is preparing for its growth plan implementation this fall.  More details on these projects and the City’s larger work on growth plan implementation will be presented in the coming months.

For the July 26, 2017 Meeting of City Council

9.7.1 Award of Contract – Bus Rapid and Conventional Transit Planning, Design and Engineering Services Request for Proposals

*City Council will be asked to approve the contract and award it to HDR Corporation for a total contract amount of $3,052,726.44 (including taxes).

Additional Information

*Enhancements to the current transit system and the implementation of the Bus Rapid Transit system have been identified in the Growth Plan as a high priority moving forward. Effective September 15, 2016, several Growth Plan projects received approval for federal funding support through Phase 1 of the Infrastructure Fund. The combination of City and federal funding brings the total amount of the City’s eligible Infrastructure Fund projects dedicated to infrastructure design to $7.6 million.

*At its May 23, 2017 meeting, City Council approved a recommendation authorizing the Administration to issue three RFPs required for the Infrastructure Fund projects: Bus Rapid and Conventional Transit Planning, Design, and Engineering Services; Transit Village Concept Plans; and Growth Plan Engagement.

*External engineering services are recommended to complete the planning and design of all aspects related to the implementation of the Transit Plan including a Bus Rapid Transit system, as outlined in the Growth Plan Technical Report (Growth Plan).

* A contract awarded to HDR Corporation is recommended for design and engineering services to complete the Bus Rapid and Conventional Transit Planning at a total contract amount of $3,052,726.44 (including taxes).

9.7.2 Rotary Clubs’ Gazebo Project – Rotary Park

*City Council will be asked to approve a request by the five Rotary Clubs of Saskatoon to design, construct, and donate a gazebo for installation in Rotary Park.

Additional Information

* The Rotary Clubs submitted a letter of intent to the City on July 6, 2017, making the proposal as a way to commemorate the 100^th Anniversary of Rotary Clubs in Saskatoon.

*The estimated cost of the gazebo is $90,000

* Subject to approval, the Rotary Clubs would hold a dedication ceremony in Rotary Park on August 15, 2017, to coincide with a visit from the Rotary International President.

9.11.2 Provincial Disaster Assistance Program

*City Council will be advised that the City of Saskatoon apply to be designated as an Eligible Assistance Area under the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program as a result of the July 10, 2017 storm that brought excessive rain.

Additional Information

*The City has received calls from private property owners who have experienced property damage as a result of flooding caused by excessive amounts of rain resulting from a rainfall which occurred on July 10, 2017.

*To date, the City Solicitor’s Office has received six calls. Also, both the Saskatoon Water and Public Works’ Divisions have received calls from residents.

* It is the Administration’s understanding that damage caused by excessive amounts of rain would qualify under Saskatchewan’s Provincial Disaster Assistance Program. The minimum criterion for a declaration is one claim of $5,000 or several smaller claims totalling $25,000. Based on calls received to date, Saskatoon has met the requirements.

*In order for individual citizens to receive assistance under the provincial program, the City of Saskatoon must be designated an Eligible Assistance Area.

After months of planning and preparation, the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo (the Zoo) and fRI Research, a non-profit research corporation based in Hinton, Alberta, have formalized a five-year agreement for the Zoo and the fRI Research Grizzly Bear Program to collaboratively carry out research on grizzly bear conservation and health.

“We are beyond excited to partner with the fRI Research on this amazing grizzly bear conservation and health research program,” says Zoo Manager, Tim Sinclair-Smith.

“This program will provide an opportunity for the Zoo to actively engage in conservation research, allow us to link research initiatives at the Zoo to those happening in the wild and support the conservation of grizzly bears in Canada.”

Over the next nine months, the research program will focus on the following:

• genetic identification of Zoo grizzly bears Mistaya and Koda by hair-based DNA analysis;
• effect of berry consumption on fecal based DNA analysis;
• planning and development of a naturalistic enclosure for grizzly bears at the Zoo which will utilize research findings on grizzly bear habitat and behaviour;
• communication of research activities and findings in the areas of grizzly bear health and conservation; and
• securing financial support for a Conservation Research and Wildlife Health Department at the Zoo, which will include the development and operation of a permanent Wildlife Health Centre.

The program will be coordinated by Dr. Marc Cattet, a wildlife health researcher and veterinarian for the fRI Research Grizzly Bear Program.  Dr. Cattet will work closely with Gordon Stenhouse, Research Scientist, and fRI Grizzly Bear Program Leader, on all aspects of this important new partnership.

“We are very pleased to be moving forward with this important new collaboration with the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo,” Stenhouse says.  “This partnership will allow us to communicate conservation research findings with Zoo visitors and to work with captive bears to answer scientific questions which we hope will ultimately result in the long-term conservation of this species.”

Mistaya is the sole surviving cub from Bear 66, a well-known female grizzly, who was killed in 2005 on the CP Rail tracks through Banff National Park.  He stayed in the wild until it became clear that he could not survive without intervention.

Koda was found orphaned that same year in the Grand Prairie region.  He was rescued and nurtured by zookeepers at the Edmonton Valley Zoo.  The cubs were paired at the Calgary Zoo and later transferred to their permanent home in Saskatoon.

For more information on the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, visit saskatoon.ca/zoo.

As we approach the midpoint of summer, Saskatoon residents are seeing widespread evidence of the investment in the City’s roads and road network infrastructure. Construction projects are underway across the city that will result in improved road and sidewalk surfaces, reduced delays at major intersections, and new infrastructure including significant water and sewer upgrades.

“The volume of construction we’re undertaking this year is unprecedented, and there will be a very noticeable improvement at the end of this construction season,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction and Design. “Since 2013, residents have been telling us through our annual Civic Services Survey that the condition of our roads is the single biggest issue facing Saskatoon. We’re working to answer that call and have made tremendous progress since we started the Building Better Roads program.”

Intersection Improvements

• Complete – 22^nd Street & Diefenbaker Drive
• On schedule – 51^st Street & Warman Road; Taylor Street & Preston Avenue  

This work will result in reduced delays, easier movements, and increased safety at each of these high traffic intersections.

Resurfacing

Beginning tonight, resurfacing work will begin on stretches of Airport Drive, Circle Drive and Idylwyld Drive. Resurfacing means removing a layer of deteriorated pavement and replacing it with a new layer of asphalt, leaving a smooth and stable driving surface. This work will be undertaken overnight (7 p.m. to 7 a.m.) to minimize traffic impacts.

Microsurfacing

Beginning this weekend, the City will start microsurfacing which needs warmer temperatures for successful application. Microsurfacing is a preservation surface treatment that leaves the road in ‘like-new’ condition. It’s applied to weathered or worn surfaces that are structurally sound.

Other Progress

• Close to 4,000 sidewalks panels have been replaced; an additional 765 panels have received a maintenance treatment
• Close to 700 km of roadway and crosswalk lines have been painted
• Sealing of city bridges is taking place throughout July and August
• Grading of gravel back lanes is taking place in more than 40 neighbourhoods
• Pothole repair crews are working seven days a week to fill potholes with hot-mix asphalt
• Significant water and sewer upgrades are underway in neighbourhoods across the city which includes the replacement of dated underground infrastructure and approximately 900 lead water service pipes to homes and businesses
• Work continues to progress on the construction of the new Traffic Bridge and North Commuter Parkway, as well as the construction of new interchanges at Boychuk Drive & Highway 16 and McOrmond Drive & College Drive

“With so many active construction projects underway around the city, we know what a pain it can be for people trying to navigate the roads,” says Anger. “We plan our construction season to lessen these impacts as much as possible, but of course it’s not possible to avoid traffic delays altogether. We’re asking everyone to remember the work is necessary and will be worth it in the long run.”

For 2017, City Council invested more than $61 million on the construction and maintenance of roads, sidewalks, back lanes, plus water and sewer infrastructure. This is roughly $2 million more than last year, and around $8 million more than in 2015. 

As part of an overall commitment to better roads in Saskatoon, City crews are busy repairing and grading a network of more than 400 kilometres of gravel back lanes. The annual work improves surface drainage and provides better access for residents and service vehicles.

“Gravel back lanes were assessed in the spring, so right now we are tackling lanes that were identified as being deteriorated due to weather and vehicle traffic,” says Brandon Harris, Director of Roadways and Operations. “In addition to improving surface drainage, back lane maintenance also includes rut and pothole repair.”

Although ponding water is normal after it rains, pools of water in gravel lanes over several weeks can speed up the formation of potholes. Back lane maintenance is both reactive and proactive as it repairs the surface while reducing future deterioration.

Residents can help prevent flooding in back lanes by keeping drainage routes clear of debris and trimming back tree branches that block sunlight in back lanes. Overhanging branches can prevent gravel back lanes from drying properly and also interfere with equipment.  

“Our crews operate large equipment, often in tight surroundings in these gravel back lanes,” says Harris. “We ask that while crews are working everyone stays clear of back lanes so our workers can get the job done safely and efficiently.”   

For everyone’s safety, please respect work zones, and for more information please visit saskatoon.ca/backlanes for the back lane maintenance schedule.

Weather

From now until 8 p.m. tonight there is a chance of showers as well as risk of thunderstorms. The likelihood of precipitation is medium with winds gusting from the east up to 50km/h until 5 p.m. then tapering off to a light easterly wind. The skies will clear to partly cloudy overnight.

Saskatoon experienced a thunderstorm last night with City rain gauges measuring accumulations ranging from 4.4mm in Silverwood Heights to 45 mm in Stonebridge, the rain gauge at the Shaw centre captured 23 mm.  Intensities were even more dramatic in the south and west areas of the city.

Water and Waste Stream

No storm related issues at the Water Treatment Plant.  The generators were put into “storm mode” when lightning started.

Last night two flusher crews were out checking/solving problem areas.

Today crews will perform inspections with Closed Circuit TV cameras in all low lying areas.  Catch basin crews are responding to calls of blocked street drains as needed.

Roadways & Operations

Roadway crews responded to approximately 20 popped manhole covers following last night’s storm.  One manhole cover was unable to be located and has been replaced.  Over the course of the night crews were able to re-open all sections of road except a closure on Melville Street; they are currently working to bring it back into service and expect it will be open sometime this morning.

Transportation

All traffic signals are operating fully except for 22nd Street and Hart Road which is operating in flash mode. Crews are troubleshooting and working to restore regular function.

Saskatoon Light & Power

The four major outages were restored before 10:00 p.m. last night. 

• Haultain, Adelaide/Churchill and Nutana Park. The outage was caused by a lightning strike damaging 3 poles. Power was restored at 9:36 p.m.
• Industrial neighbourhood. The outage was also caused by lightning damaging a capacitor bank. Power was restored at 9:38 p.m.
• Riversdale neighbourhood. The outage was caused by tree contacts. Power was restored at 8:29 p.m.
• Station 20 West. The outage was caused by damaged equipment from the storm. Power was restored at 9:20 p.m.

The smaller outages to single homes were restored by 12:30 this morning.  There were approximately 4650 customers affected.

For lingering impacts, SL&P has some tree trimming clean-up to finish this morning and 3 poles that will need to be replaced. These were the ones that started on fire due to the lightning strikes.   

Transit

Transit was back on schedule by 9:00pm.  There were some minor detours due to localized flooding.

Parks & Urban Forestry

Four reports of tree limb failures were made to dispatch last night and attended to or coned off for follow up response today. There have been an additional four tree damage calls that have been directed to Urban Forestry this morning. We have five Urban Forestry crews that will be responding to tree damage calls on a priority basis today.

Saskatoon Fire Department

Between 6 and 9 p.m. the SFD responded to 25 incidents; of those four involved tree contact or a downed power line which started fires; nine incidents were the result of fire alarms sounding. 

The Fire Department cautions the public against wading into storm water as there may be unseen hazards in the water such as missing manhole covers and dangerous debris. 

Standing water could also be extremely dangerous if there are downed power lines or if it became energized by a lightning strike.

Beginning this Thursday, July 6, the City is undertaking major work to improve the safety and functionality of the intersection at Taylor Street and Preston Avenue. Based on a set of pre-defined criteria that includes collision history and average delays, this intersection was one identified as in need of improvements in 2017. The work is expected to take eight weeks.

“We’re very aware of how disruptive construction work at a major intersection like this can be, and we’ve planned the project in order to minimize the impacts as much as possible,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction and Design. “We waited until school was out for construction to start, and we’re also undertaking the work in phases so we can keep one lane of traffic open in all directions at all times.”

The planned improvements to the intersection include:

• Construction of a dedicated left turning lane from Preston southbound onto Taylor to improve traffic flow and reduce delays.
• Construction of dedicated right turning lane from Taylor westbound onto Preston to improve traffic flow and reduce delays.
• Moving the island between the intersection and right turning lane from Preston southbound onto Taylor to create a bus bay. This will allow buses to pull out of the flow of traffic to pick up and drop off passengers.
• Improving the alignment of crosswalks for the ease and safety of pedestrians.
• Painting lane lines to improve safety and the road user experience.

Some of the other major intersections undergoing improvements this summer include 22nd Street and Diefenbaker Drive (now complete) and 51st Street and Warman Road. For more information about 2017 construction projects, visit saskatoon.ca/betterroads. 

City staff now have a new tool available to assist in building successful partnerships with First Nations, Métis, and other Aboriginal organizations with the launch of “ayisīnowak [a/ee/see/ni/wak, the people]:  A Communications Guide [kâ-isi-pîkiskwâtoyahk, are communicating]” (Guide).

“The journey of Reconciliation will take time, open hearts, and open minds,” says His Worship Mayor Charlie Clark.  “We all have different norms and practices for building relationships and conducting affairs.  If we are open to learning and respecting each other's protocols and practices, we will grow stronger as individuals and as a community.  This Guide is an important step in our Reconciliation journey.”

Mayor Clark, together with collaborating partners, Chief Bobby Cameron, Chair of the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre Board of Governors; and Harry Lafond, Executive Director of the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, announced the initiative today.

The Guide provides City staff with a basic outline of Aboriginal protocol and governance systems and is designed to facilitate relationship building by increasing understanding, respect, and awareness of Aboriginal culture.  The Guide is intended to be an adaptive and living document that will continue to develop as relationships and understanding grow. 

“The City of Saskatoon has long played a leading role in supporting and enhancing relationships with First Nations peoples in a wide range of areas.  Through this Guide, the City of Saskatoon is furthering their leadership role by encouraging civic Administration to practice an appreciation of the Indigenous cultures of the region (Treaty 6 Territory),” says Chief Bobby Cameron.

The City collaborated with the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre and the Office of the Treaty Commissioner to develop the First Edition of the Guide as part of its commitment to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action #57.  The Guide also assists in meeting the City’s Strategic Goal of enhancing relations with Aboriginal organizations through the development of educational opportunities.  

“The Guide will be a valuable asset for organizations and City Administration as the community journeys in the spirit of Reconciliation.  Make this Guide part of the personal action plan for the way forward,” says Harry Lafond.

The development of the Guide was made possible, in part, through a summer employment partnership opportunity between the City and the Saskatoon Tribal Council.

For more information and to download a digital copy of the Guide, please visit saskatoon.ca/aboriginalrelations.

City Council approved Victoria Park as the location for the “Where Our Paths Cross” reconciliation commemorative artwork.  The endorsement came at the June 26, 2017 City Council meeting.

“Where Our Paths Cross” was commissioned by the Saskatoon Tribal Council and the City of Saskatoon, with funding from the Government of Canada.  Its creation is in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action No. 79:  Educating and creating a sense of shared awakening.

“The ‘Where Our Paths Cross’ project is not just the Saskatoon Tribal Council’s call to action, it’s our partners’ too.  Together we are collaborating to create something that reflects Reconciliation Saskatoon for our entire community,” says Tribal Chief Felix Thomas, Saskatoon Tribal Council.

A concept by accomplished Canadian artist, Gordon Reeve, was unanimously selected by a committee for “Where Our Paths Cross” following extensive community engagement.  Reeve has works on public display across Canada and his experience in Aboriginal art and engagement includes the Chatham, Ontario sculpture “A Place of Many Grasses” that is a tribute to the Shawnee Chief, Tecumseh.

Reeve’s concept for “Where Our Paths Cross” is a burnished, stainless steel sculpture that will reflect the sun and the moon.  It is designed to reach 35 feet high at its highest point, 27 feet to the top of the arch, and 20 feet wide at inside ground level.  A longer pole, pointing north, symbolically represents the First Nations long history.  A shorter pole, pointing south, symbolically represents Métis history.  Both are anchored in the earth.  The crossing of the poles signifies the crossing of their paths high above all, as in the distant past.

“I am excited about the installation of the ‘Where Our Paths Cross’ sculpture in Victoria Park.  This sculpture will be both a gathering place and a statement about reconciliation in the heart of the Meewasin Valley,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.  “It will convey the roots of our community in the First Nations and Métis culture, intersecting with all who have moved here since.  ‘Where our Paths Cross’ is a testament to our shared history and our shared future.  Thank you to Gordon Reeve for this vision and to all of the partners who helped bring this sculpture forward to our community.” 

The sculpture will be located in Victoria Park, north of the festival site and east of Spadina Crescent West.  While a number of sites were considered, Victoria Park was identified by First Nations and Métis Elders as having particular significance because it has been the site of two Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada events, is large enough to accommodate community gatherings, and has a view of the South Saskatchewan River.

The sculpture will be installed by the spring of 2018.

Since 2015, the City has been working with the Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Métis Federation Inc., Office of the Treaty Commissioner, and other community groups, leaders, and institutions in Saskatchewan to promote reconciliation.

Saskatoon’s new Traffic Bridge is ready for its first concrete deck pour. Graham Commuter Partners (GCP) will complete the first pour for the new deck during the evening of Sunday, June 25, 2017, meaning activity at the site will extend beyond typical working hours, weather permitting.

“Nighttime is the best time to complete large pours like this because the temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower,” says Dan Willems, Special Projects Manager, Major Projects and Preservation. “This will be the first of three concrete pours for the new bridge deck.”

Willems says the City’s contract with GCP contains an after-hours clause stating that generally, all work at the Traffic Bridge is to be completed between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekends.

“Outside of these hours, GCP is allowed to undertake certain critical construction activities provided the City has received and reviewed plans showing all details of the work to be completed, along with start and end dates, and that all lighting and other safety requirements to complete night work are met.”

The City would like to thank nearby residents for their understanding and patience during construction of the Traffic Bridge, which is part of the Bridging to Tomorrow Project. The project also includes construction of the North Commuter Parkway. Both bridges remain on schedule for completion in October of 2018.

For Bridging to Tomorrow updates, please visit saskatoon.ca/bridging.

The City continues to take a more strategic approach toward improving and maintaining the condition of hundreds of kilometres of sidewalks in Saskatoon. $7.9 million is going into preservation and maintenance programs this year.

“This is a budget that helps us work toward our goal to decrease the sidewalk repair and maintenance backlog,” says Rob Frank, Engineering Manager, Asset Preservation. “We continue to combine two approaches when it comes to ensuring our sidewalks are well maintained and free from immediate safety concerns – the Sidewalk Maintenance Program and the Sidewalk Preservation Program.”

The Sidewalk Maintenance Program is about extending the life of an existing sidewalk by managing safety hazards such as large cracks, broken concrete, and tripping hazards. Sidewalks are prioritized according to condition and pedestrian use and are maintained until they are determined as being in an unacceptable condition.

“We have a criteria to determine actions taken when it comes to regular maintenance, but we also consider feedback from residents who report sidewalks with immediate safety hazards. When we hear from a resident, we put it on the list for inspection and then, if necessary, prioritize it for maintenance,” says Frank.

The Sidewalk Preservation Program is a planned program that focuses on repairing sidewalks next to roadways already in the queue for a treatment under the three-year Road Preservation Program. It also addresses worst condition sidewalk segments in the highest pedestrian traffic locations. Then, as those sidewalks continue to improve, the work progresses to lower pedestrian traffic locations. This cost-effective approach ranges from repairing panels, to replacing panels, to replacing entire sidewalk segments.

The City has approximately 1,524 kilometres of sidewalks. Using current maintenance and replacement criteria, it will take approximately 15 years to address the sidewalk backlog over the entire sidewalk network.

For more information about sidewalk repair, maintenance and replacement criteria, and how to report immediate safety concerns, please visit saskatoon.ca/sidewalks. 

People of all ages, classes, cultures and abilities, are invited to celebrate National Aboriginal Day and the second annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation today in Victoria Park.

The “Rock Your Roots” Walk begins at 10:00 a.m. and is part of many National Aboriginal Day activities being held throughout the day, beginning with a Pipe Ceremony at 7:30 a.m. Participants and groups are encouraged to celebrate their unique cultural heritage by holding or wearing traditional symbols of their culture or organizations during the “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation.

National Aboriginal Day activities and entertainment in the park will include:

• 7:30 a.m. Pipe Ceremony – open to all.
• 9:30 a.m. Gather at start line for “Rock You Roots” Walk for Reconciliation.
• 10:00 a.m. “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation begins. Along the way, Magic City Chorus, Max Laplant, Many Nations Dancers with Wild Horse, John Arcand and the Creeland Square Dancers will perform.
• 11:30 a.m. Grand Entry of dignitaries and special guests.
• 12:30 – 4:00 p.m. Public lunch, activities and family fun including learning activities in tipis, partner exhibit booths, and an entertainment stage.

The “Rock Your Roots” Walk follows a month-long series of events launched by Reconciliation Saskatoon on May 17 to promote Reconciliation in Saskatoon. The events educate and inspire citizens on the process of Canadian reconciliation and to answer the calls.

Reconciliation Saskatoon’s theme for the Walk this year is answering the calls. Leading by example, Reconciliation Saskatoon shared videos and testimonials highlighting ways members responded to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action.

Reconciliation Saskatoon is a 58 member initiative of organizations, non-profits, businesses and partners who have come together towards one mission: to initiate a citywide conversation about reconciliation and provide opportunities for everyone to engage in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/reconciliation, www.OTC.ca or phone the Office of the Treaty Commissioner at 306-244-2100.

The City of Saskatoon’s commitment to the TRC’s Calls to Action supports the City’s Corporate Strategic Goal of Quality of Life by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

The City is pleased to announce the launch of the “I am the Bridge” anti-racism campaign. 

“Building a city where all people can succeed starts with building relationships and a shared understanding,” says Mayor Charlie Clark.  “The ‘I am the Bridge’ campaign helps to do this by telling stories and sharing the insights of Saskatoon residents on their lived realities with racism.  These conversations are crucial to collectively build an inclusive community.”

Over the past year, residents were invited to submit videos sharing their experiences with racism in Saskatoon and their ideas on how to eliminate it.  From these submissions, the most powerful quotes were selected to produce a thought-provoking ad campaign that includes a video compilation, mix of outdoor advertising, and social media. 

“By shining a light on individual experiences, we hope this campaign will increase awareness and recognition of racism in our community and help generate ideas of inclusion among residents,” says Lynne Lacroix, Director of Recreation and Community Development. 

Racism is a global issue, not unique to Saskatoon.  It takes many forms and is influenced by a range of historical, social, political, and economic factors. 

“An understanding of the nature of racism is essential in order to recognize and address it successfully,” says Lacroix.

Everyone can be the bridge to ending racism in Saskatoon.  To learn more about anti-racism education and watch the “I am the Bridge” video, visit saskatoon.ca/iamthebridge.    

With the summer construction season in full swing, the City of Saskatoon reminds drivers, people on bikes and pedestrians about work zone safety. Now in its fourth year, the Respect Work Zones campaign focuses on respecting work zones and workers.

“We’re continually doing our best to make sure that our work zones and workers are always safe,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation & Utilities. “We rely on the participation of residents to obey signage, watch for workers and always pay attention.”

Gardiner says as the City completes night work to limit disruption to commuters, drivers are asked to watch for speed reductions around work zones.

“Be aware of work happening at night,” she says. “Drivers can expect night work to happen on priority streets from seven o’clock at night to seven o’ clock in the morning throughout the summer and should watch for reflective cones, delineator posts and flashing lights.”

The most common type of work zones are those around construction and roadway projects, but there are other work zones such as mobile work zones for line painting, parks maintenance and even drop-off zones at the landfill.

“Respecting our different types of work zones also means respecting our workers at their place of business – these locations are their offices,” says Gardiner. “We want to keep our message of respect in the workplace front and centre.”

Gardiner stresses at times, construction work may appear halted or complete, but construction signs and barriers are kept in place where work zones are potentially hazardous to residents, or to protect construction work and materials while they set or cure. It’s imperative to never enter a work zone or move past signage even if it appears complete or inactive. There are serious safety risks in doing so, as well as the risk of vehicle damage.

The Respect Work Zones campaign supports the City Council Strategic Priority (2016-2020 Term) of Transportation. This year, through the Building Better Roads program, City Council invested $61 million to build, maintain and repair sidewalks and roadways in local neighbourhoods in addition to other projects around the city. 

Road crews will start paving work on some priority roadways this week, but many motorists won’t notice the construction until it’s complete and they are driving on smooth, new roadways.

“Our goal is to keep traffic moving during the day, so we’re scheduling more work at night,” says Matt Jurkiewicz, Engineering Manager, Technical Services, Construction and Design.  “Resurfacing is a reasonably fast moving paving project that is ideally suited for night work.  Sections of roads can be milled one night and paved the next.  We can open the roadway for daytime traffic.”

Resurfacing is a roadway treatment that replaces surface pavement and makes the road surface smooth again. A milling machine removes a top layer of existing deteriorated pavement, then a paving machine lays new, hot mix asphalt.

“This type of road work does not usually require full road closures,” Jurkiewicz says. “It relies more on lane restrictions so even at night traffic can keep moving, just at a slightly reduced speed.” 

Jurkiewicz says other types of roadway preservation work can’t be done at night, like reconstruction projects that involve open pit work and microsurfacing, which works best in the hottest days of summer.

“Crews started resurfacing work Monday night on Marquis Drive and expect to be there for about a week.  Then they’ll move on to other priority roadways including Airport Drive and Idylwyld Drive,” says Jurkiewicz.

For a complete, list of construction projects, visit the city’s online interactive maps.

The 2017 budget for roadway preservation $32 million.

Today, 21 high school students will graduate from the Fire Introduction Recruitment Experience (FIRE) Cadet Program offered through a partnership with Saskatoon Fire, the Saskatoon Public Schools and Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools.

The FIRE Cadet Program is part of the Career Education curriculum at Bedford Road Collegiate, Mount Royal Collegiate, Tommy Douglas Collegiate, E.D. Feehan Catholic High School and Bethlehem Catholic High School. Each graduating student demonstrated responsibility, respect, teamwork, community involvement, pride and leadership to ensure their personal success throughout the eight week program.

“We have seen phenomenal growth in the comradery and teamwork shown by the FIRE Cadets. The students came from different schools and different backgrounds but very quickly jelled as a group,” says Doug Wegren, a firefighter leading the program.“It was exciting to see the student’s transition from being individuals to working together to tackle multiple tasks and challenges.”

Throughout the eight week program students learned to operate fire hoses, hydrants, fire trucks and an aerial ladder. They gained technical rope, ladder, extrication, dangerous goods, firefighter self-rescue and water rescue skills. Cadets also completed the Red Cross CPR Level C training course and acquired valuable experience leading fire safety presentations.

Brandon Bishop with the Saskatoon Fire Department states, “The support we have received from our community has been instrumental in the success of our students and the FIRE Cadet Program. I want to especially acknowledge Don Flaman from Flaman Sales who provided us with a trailer for the program, and SGI who offered us cars so our students could practice their extrication skills.”

It is the hoped that this program will encourage a strong desire in the graduates to consider a future career path serving the community with the Saskatoon Fire Department.

Congratulations to each student who is graduating from the FIRE Cadet Program today. 

Visit saskatoon.ca to learn more about the Saskatoon Fire Department.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, June 9, 2017 — Investing in public infrastructure supports efficient, affordable and sustainable transit services that help Canadians and their families get to work, school and essential services on time and back home safely at the end of a long day. The Government of Canada is making investments that will help create well-paying jobs and grow the middle class now while building a strong foundation for a sustainable economic future.

Today, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities; the Honourable Donna Harpauer, Minister of Government Relations; and James McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit; have announced that 11 new fully accessible buses have been added to Saskatoon Transit’s fleet. Funding was provided through the Public Transit Infrastructure Fund (PTIF) from the Government of Canada and the City of Saskatoon. The Government of Saskatchewan administers federal PTIF funding in the province.

This transit service improvement falls under Saskatoon City Council’s Strategic Goal of Moving Around, which aims to make it easier for citizens to use Saskatoon Transit by providing safe, convenient, reliable and affordable service. These buses are the first of 52 that have been ordered (40 conventional and 12 fully accessible buses) by Saskatoon Transit as part of their PTIF project. 

This project is also part of the bilateral agreement between Canada and Saskatchewan and was announced on September 16, 2016, as part of more than $27.3 million in federal funding for 12 public transit projects. In addition, more than $1.4 million in federal funding was announced on January 11, 2017, for two additional projects under PTIF.

Quotes

“Investing in public transit infrastructure helps people get around quickly, reduces pollution, and creates good jobs today while laying the foundation for economic growth tomorrow. These new buses will help Saskatoon to renew its fleet and provide reliable transit services, allowing residents to spend less time on the road and more time with their families.”

The Honourable Ralph Goodale,
Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness,
On behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

“The Government of Saskatchewan appreciates this program being available to our province’s municipal partners to make their communities stronger. The Public Transit Infrastructure Fund will help Saskatoon improve their local transportation system for the benefit of citizens who work, live and raise families in Saskatchewan’s largest city.”

The Honourable Donna Harpauer,
Minister of Government Relations

“Adding these buses to our fleet reduces the average age of our buses which helps us to enhance our service level and reduce maintenance costs. These new buses are fully accessible, have wider aisles and bike racks which will result in more convenient trips for customers. They also come equipped from the factory with our automated stop announcement system and will help us lower our greenhouse gas emissions.”

James McDonald,
Director of Saskatoon Transit

Quick Facts

• The Government of Canada will contribute $12 million toward the renewal and upgrade of Saskatoon’s Transit fleet. The City of Saskatoon will also be investing $12 million.
• The purchase price for the 11 Nova 40 foot low floor diesel buses was $5.8 million.
• Saskatoon Transit’s asset management strategy will see changes to transit over the next eight years as the department:
  • Reduces its average bus age from 11.9 to 7.3 years, thereby reducing maintenance costs and the number of ‘spares’ required;
  • Provides full accessibility on every bus, along every route; and
  • Offers air conditioning and other improved amenities on every bus.
• The Government of Canada will provide more than $180 billion in infrastructure funding over 12 years for public transit, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, transportation that supports trade, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
• To support public transit, Budget 2017 proposes $25.3 billion. This amount includes $5 billion that will be available for investment through the Canada Infrastructure Bank.

Associated Links

Government of Canada’s $180-billion+ infrastructure plan in Budget 2017: http://www.budget.gc.ca/2017/docs/plan/chap-02-en.html#Toc477707375

Federal infrastructure investments in Saskatchewan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map-carte/sk-eng.html

CWWF and PTIF projects in Saskatchewan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/pt-sp/pt-sp-sk-eng.html

The Public Transit Infrastructure Fund: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/ptif-fitc-eng.php

Saskatoon Transit: www.saskatoontransit.ca

City Council’s decision whether to designate Third Avenue United Church as a Municipal Heritage Property remains on hold, pending an imminent recommendation from the Saskatchewan Heritage Foundation’s Review and Appeals Committee.

“Regardless of what the Provincial  committee decides, the City Administration remains firm in its view the property warrants designation as one of the most prominent heritage structures in the City, as well as its historical value and current use as a major cultural centre,” says Randy Grauer, Community Services General Manager.

In the meantime, the property is on the City’s Heritage Holding Bylaw, which prohibits demolition, without the specific permission of City Council. 

In addition, because of a dispute between two parties with a financial interest in the Third Avenue United Church property, a Queen’s Bench justice has issued an order that in effect protects the historic building from sudden demolition.

Grauer says it is an unusually complex legal situation.

“The court order essentially says the property must be maintained in the same condition it was when it was purchased by the Third Avenue Christian Centre in the fall of 2013. We would not want to see a scenario where a party with an interest on the property begins an unauthorized demolition just to reap whatever value the lot may have.”

Right now, the mortgage is in arrears. The court order allows for a judicial sale of the property no sooner than August 30, 2017. Until such time, the property is protected by the terms of the order and must remain in the same condition as it currently exists.  

It is the City’s hope that the matter will be back before City Council within the next two months.  The City Administration remains vigilant in monitoring the site, and any attempt at demolition would be met with a quick and appropriate response.

Saskatoon’s new Traffic Bridge and North Commuter Parkway are literally taking shape. The Bridging to Tomorrow project began a year and a half ago and both bridges remain on schedule to be complete in October 2018.

The six-lane North Commuter Parkway will connect Saskatoon’s Marquis Industrial Area to neighbourhoods on the east-side. It will also accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.

“At the North Commuter Parkway, the structural steel for the west half of the bridge is in place and work is ongoing on the final in-river pier,” says Dan Willems, Special Projects Manager for Major Projects and Preservation. “Once the final pier is finished, the structural steel for the east half of the bridge will be installed. Crews are also installing deck panels on the west half of the bridge.” 

Before the North Commuter Parkway can open, new roads and upgrades to existing ones are also necessary. The twinning of Central Avenue continues, and the McOrmond Drive extension is well underway.

The new Traffic Bridge looks similar to the old traffic bridge but is four spans and is slightly wider and taller in order to accommodate wider traffic lanes, wider pathways on both sides, and overhead clearance for emergency vehicles. Once complete, it will once again serve as a convenient link for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists crossing the South Saskatchewan River.

“All of the structural steel is now in place on the Traffic Bridge and work is ongoing to install the deck panels which create the ‘subfloor’ of the new bridge. By the end of summer, all of the deck panels will be installed.  The asphalt driving surface and adjacent landscaping will be completed in the summer of 2018,” says Willems.

Bridging to Tomorrow project updates, including detailed monthly summaries, links to live cameras at each bridge site, and quarterly video updates, are available at saskatoon.ca/bridging.

In person, anyone can watch Traffic Bridge progress at the River Landing viewing area. North Commuter Parkway construction can be viewed from the Meewasin Trail just east of the cul-de-sac at the north end of Kinnear Avenue (north of Silverwood Golf Course). 

The Saskatoon North Partnership for Growth (P4G) is pleased to announce the draft P4G Regional Plan (Plan) is complete.

“The goal of the Plan is to ensure each of the five partnering municipalities can benefit from growth opportunities, increase efficiencies, and reduce costs by working together,” says Alex Fallon, Independent Chair of the P4G Regional Oversight Committee and President and CEO of Saskatoon Regional Economic Development Authority (SREDA).

The draft Plan recommends a series of guiding principles and policies around land use, transportation, servicing, and implementation, as well as proposes new governance and administrative structures for the region.

The P4G invites residents in the Rural Municipality of Corman Park; the Cities of Saskatoon, Warman, and Martensville; and the Town of Osler to an Information Session for the draft Plan.

“The draft Regional Plan is a significant milestone in our efforts to plan for long-term growth across our region.  I encourage the public to attend to understand how the Regional Plan will work and the next steps,” Fallon says.

PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION:  P4G Regional Plan
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Open House – 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Public Presentation 6:30 p.m. followed by a moderated Question and Answer Session
North Ridge Centennial Community Centre
901 3^rd Street North, Martensville

The public is encouraged to submit, in advance, any questions or comments to be addressed during the Moderated Question and Answer Session on the P4G website at partnershipforgrowth.ca.  Answers will be posted on the website in a Frequently Asked Questions document after June 27, 2017.

The Consultant, O2 Planning + Design, and representatives from the partner municipalities and SREDA will be in attendance.

To view the draft Plan, Servicing Strategy, and the Governance and Implementation Strategy, as well as to submit questions for the Moderated Question and Answer Session, please visit the P4G website at partnershipforgrowth.ca.

The City has partnered with the Downtown Saskatoon Business Improvement District on a pilot project that will use new technology to keep sidewalks clean.

“We’re continuously looking for better and more affordable ways to improve how we deliver services, and we want to help our citizens do the same thing," says Brandon Harris, Director of Roadways and Operations.  "In this case, using new partnerships and new technology will hopefully improve the way BID sweep their sidewalks, and provide a cost savings for the City at the same time."

“In the city centre, sidewalks are swept by the Downtown Saskatoon BID, but catch basins, gutters, and bike lanes are kept free of debris by the city.  By combining these two jobs, cost savings can be achieved by both the BID and the City.”

This spring, summer and fall, a pilot study will be done to determine the long-term feasibility of this partnership.  The City will provide the equipment and training, and the BID will supply the staff to operate the machinery.

A new piece of sweeping equipment called a Micro Air Street Sweeper will be used for the study. The Air Sweeper is designed for narrow and congested locations such as sidewalks, gutters and bike lanes. It also utilizes different technology than traditional sweepers to control dust in high population areas, helping to keep the area cleaner. 

“A clean and safe district is our top priority,” says Brent Penner, Executive Director of Downtown Saskatoon’s Business Improvement District.

“Downtown Saskatoon’s “Clean Team” is responsible for keeping the public right-of-way looking clean and pristine. Our staff is looking forward to utilizing this new piece of equipment with its broad capabilities as it will allow us to operate more efficiently in cleaning our district.  We’re excited to be partnering with the City on this pilot project.”

The pilot study will be evaluated at the end of the season to identify lessons learned and the feasibility of continuing and expanding a similar model to the other Business Improvement Districts.  The partnership is expected to save the city approximately $20,000 in 2017.

Once again, the City is inviting residents to participate and “Have Your Say!” through the 2018 Citizen Budget at saskatoon.ca/financialfuture. The 2018 Citizen Budget goes live today, and will be open for public feedback until June 25, 2017.

 “This online tool provides an opportunity for citizens to share their priorities and preferences, by telling us what matters most when it comes to the service levels the City provides,” says Carla Blumers, Director of Communications. “Last year we had over 800 people participate and we hope this year even more residents will weigh in.”  

In its third year, Citizen Budget is educational and interactive.  It provides a great opportunity for residents to be heard - and to get involved in the City’s annual budget process. There are 12 categories where participants can decide how they would adjust property tax funding.

“The online tool has investment sliders which residents can select to either maintain the City’s current service levels, increase or decrease them for each service or program,” Blumers says. “As you make your choices, your property tax dollar amount will change in real time so you can see the impact of your funding choices on an individual tax bill.”

Blumers says each year City Council and Administration must make difficult decisions when balancing the trade-offs that need to be considered when increasing, decreasing or providing the same service levels.

“Citizen Budget allows you to see the impact that investment changes in service levels can have on your property taxes.”

For residents who may prefer to submit written comments and feedback on the 2018 Budget, Citizen Budget comment sheets are available at the Info Desk in the lobby of City Hall.

Importantly, the public feedback gathered through Citizen Budget will again be considered by City Council and Administration prior to the budget review in October. City Council also considers other factors for annual budgetary decision making including inflation, the city’s growing population, Council priorities, service level changes and the City’s performance measures.

To participate in the 2018 Citizen Budget, and to also view the City’s informative Budget video series, visit saskatoon.ca/financialfuture. 

Major upgrades to local infrastructure have started in several locations throughout Saskatoon thanks to support from federal and provincial governments as part of the 2017 Water Main, Sanitary Lining and Lead Water Pipe Replacement Initiative.

 “Modern, efficient water, wastewater and storm water management infrastructure is essential to the well-being of Canadian families and creates economic growth and middle-class jobs,” said the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of the Honourable Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “We are pleased to invest in these improvements in Saskatoon to improve the reliability of its systems while protecting the environment.”

This year, close to 1,000 properties in five neighbourhoods in Saskatoon will see extensive water main replacement and sewer lining work, including the replacement of over 900 lead water service pipes to homes and businesses.

“The Government of Saskatchewan is proud to play a role in improving Saskatoon’s water infrastructure by investing up to $7.9 million toward this initiative and working with our federal and municipal partners to improve service for our citizens,” said the Honourable Donna Harpauer, Minister of Government Relations.

This coordinated approach to managing underground and road renewal at the same time lessens the impact to residents and lowers the cost. 

“We always look for ways to be more efficient and minimize inconvenience to citizens,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction and Design.  “By combining water main replacement and water and sewer main lining, then replacing road surfaces and sidewalks, we save money and we save the amount of time we’re in a neighbourhood.”

The intent of this initiative is to accelerate short-term municipal investments while supporting the rehabilitation of water and wastewater infrastructure to meet immediate priorities for clean water and healthier environments for communities.

Through the Clean Water and Wastewater Fund, the Government of Canada is contributing up to $15.8 million and the Government of Saskatchewan is contributing up to $7.9 million toward this overall City of Saskatoon initiative worth a total of $43.3 million.

City Council updated its Building Bylaw and repealed its 25-year-old predecessor at its Tuesday, May 23 meeting.

“It’s business as usual, just better,” says Director of Building Standards, Kara Fagnou.  “We have consolidated and improved our information to capture all key aspects of the building process into the bylaw.”

Building Bylaw No. 9455 (Bylaw) will replace Building Bylaw No. 7306.

“The intent of the Bylaw is to better reflect current practices and provide tools to better administer our programs,” Fagnou says.  “The updates will also clarify the requirements and conditions for building permit applicants and what people or companies can expect when building in Saskatoon.”

The Bylaw updates will enhance program transparency by clarifying what the application requirements and permitting conditions are.  Some of these conditions include:

• defining permit expiry dates;
• outlining the process for requesting a permit extension; and
• clarifying site conditions and construction signage requirements.

Importantly, key industry stakeholders were involved in improving the way life-safety systems are addressed throughout the building process.  These partners helped incorporate new requirements for on-site life-safety system reviews to make sure installations are done in accordance with the approved engineered design; this was previously outside the scope of the program.

The updated Bylaw will contain new administration fees to support the sustainability of the Building Inspection and Plan Review Programs.  The administration fees will apply only to customers who request to:

• extend the term of their building permit;
• reinstate a building permit; or
• cancel a building permit.

Full enforcement of the Bylaw provisions is proposed for January 1, 2018.  The City’s Building Standards Division will work with industry and civic departments over the next six months to develop an implementation plan to support the rollout of the updated Bylaw.

“Overall, the updated Bylaw provides a platform to communicate building permit requirements and conditions in a clear and consistent manner,” Fagnou says.  “It helps promote good neighbour practices through transparent building permit program administration, and it supports the City’s Strategic Goals by balancing growth with accountability and public safety.”

For more information on the updated Bylaw, please visit saskatoon.ca/buildingstandards or contact Building Standards at 306-975-2645.

Mayor Charlie Clark has requested all flags at City of Saskatoon facilities fly at half-mast to pay tribute to victims of the bombing in Manchester, United Kingdom.

“We would like to offer our deep condolences to the community and people of Manchester,” Mayor Clark says. “This affects us all, and especially the many residents in Saskatoon who have friends and family living in England.”

A Saskatoon Transit bus was this morning involved in a multi-vehicle collision near the intersection of 2nd Avenue and Queen Street. 

Passengers on the southbound bus were not injured, but the operator reported some discomfort to an arm. While at least four other vehicles were involved, no other injuries were reported.

Drugs or alcohol are not suspected. In addition to cooperating with police, Transit officials are also conducting the routine internal investigation.

The City of Saskatoon, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Metis Federation Inc., along with 54 supporting organizations, have launched a month-long series of activities to promote Reconciliation in Saskatoon.

The 58 member initiative, known as Reconciliation Saskatoon, joined together to further a citywide conversation about the process of Canadian reconciliation, provide opportunities for transformative experiences at events, and inspire citizens to engage in calls to action.

In 2015, Saskatoon committed to responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action, with a proclamation by City Council on June 22, declaring 2015-16 the Year of Reconciliation. In addition, the City committed to working with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and other community groups, leaders and institutions in Saskatchewan, to promote reconciliation in our province.

This year’s month-long schedule of activities will give Saskatoon residents an opportunity to explore the meaning of reconciliation and answer the calls.

The schedule will culminate in the second annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation in Victoria Park on June 21, National Aboriginal Day. Everyone is invited to celebrate with our Indigenous community and display their own unique cultural heritage. Food and entertainment will be provided.

For more information on events, or to have your Reconciliation event added to the calendar, please visit OTC.ca.

Quotations:

• Felix Thomas, Chief, Saskatoon Tribal Council

“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action called on all of us - First Nations, leadership, organizations, everyone - to step up. Reconciliation is a heavy task and it takes more than a village to make it happen. The organizations and people that are part of Reconciliation Saskatoon prove that working together helps us move forward. Let’s keep this momentum up and one day Reconciliation won’t just be a goal, but an achievement.”

• Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark

I see tremendous work underway in our community toward Reconciliation. People from many walks of life are reaching out to one another, making commitments to learn more about the impact of Residential schools and our colonial history, and to building stronger relationships toward the future. Reconciliation is a journey that we can each take. It recognizes that our diversity gives us the strength we need to for a sustainable and prosperous future. I hope to see you at the many great events planned to bring us together as part of Reconciliation.”

• Shirley Isbister, President of the Central Urban Metis Federation Inc.

“Reconciliation and answering the calls to reconciliation is about building community, building relationships and committing ourselves to making a better world for our children, grandchildren and those to come, to feel safe and respected. We invite everyone to join us June 21, 2017 as we walk to show our solidarity in answering the calls to action.”

• Harry Lafond, Executive Director, Office of the Treaty Commissioner

“Reconciliation is at the heart of the Treaty relationship in Saskatchewan. At the Office of the Treaty Commissioner we work to create space where people can come together and learn about our collective story of Treaty, ask questions and create relationships. The month of events and the Walk for Reconciliation are a chance for each of us to take another step on our journeys of reconciliation, to celebrate our diversity and get to know each other as community.”

In a recent Readers’ Choice Survey, held by RV West, a recreational vehicle (RV) publication reaching Western Canada, the City’s Gordon Howe Campground was awarded Gold for Favourite RV Park or Campground in Saskatchewan.

“We are very honoured to hear Gordon Howe Campground was voted one of Saskatchewan’s favourites,” says Andrew Roberts, Manager of Special Use Facilities and Capital Planning.  “This recognition reflects the pride our staff takes in beatifying the campground and the high quality of service that customers can expect 24/7.”

RV West readers are surveyed annually and asked to indicate their favourite destinations, events, attractions, accommodations, and dealerships in Canada and the United States.  A complete list of 2017 recipients can be found at rvwest.com/readerschoice/2017.

“Right in the heart of Saskatoon, our campground is over 55 years old with a mature canopy of trees and shrubs, paved well-lit streets, onsite facilities, and 135 serviced sites to accommodate every traveler, whether you are tenting or in a larger motorhome,” says Roberts.

Gordon Howe Campground is located at 1640 Avenue P South and open mid‑April to mid-October annually.  For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/camp.