News Releases

December 8, 2015 meeting

8.2.1 Appointments to Governance and Priorities Committee

*The purpose of the report is to transfer the 2016 appointments for Executive Committee to the newly-formed Governance and Priorities Committee.
*The committee approved forwarding a report to City Council recommending the 2016 appointments for Executive Committee be transferred to the Governance and Priorities Committee.

Background

*On November 23, City Council requested the following changes be implemented:
-Executive Committee be renamed the Governance and Priorities Committee and remain a Committee of all members of Council; the Governance and Priorities Committee’s mandate includes: governance, strategic priorities, annual business plan and budget process, legal matters, human resource and collective bargaining issues and government relations; and, the Governance and Priorities Committee continues to meet on the third Monday of every month.

8.2.2 Deferral Report – Municipal Governance – Practices and Procedures for the Reporting Out of In Camera Items

*Executive Committee approved deferral of the report until the January 18, 206 meeting of the Governance and Priorities Committee.

Background

*At the Executive Committee meeting of November 16, the Leadership Team Governance Subcommittee committed to providing a report respecting practices and procedures for the reporting out of in camera items. The finalization of this report has been delayed partly due to the passage of new Cities Act provisions impacting the issues. 

The City’s new garbage system will improve collection reliability, enhance customer service and improve efficiencies for the benefit of all black, blue and green cart customers.

“We’re so pleased to introduce new collection routes and take a bold step toward our vision of a highly efficient and effective waste management system,” said Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “The City’s new efficient waste system will improve our service level to Saskatoon citizens, lower fuel costs and reduce our carbon footprint.”

Using real-time data collected by the new system over the past several months, the City is introducing optimised routes and schedules, designed specifically to move efficiently and directly through Saskatoon’s road network and neighbourhoods. The new routes also consider trips each truck needs to take to drop off collected materials at the landfill, recycling centre, or compost depot and ensures these trips are as short and direct as possible, with reduced back-tracking by collection trucks. There is no location change for front-street or back lane collections.

The new collection days begin January 4, 2016 and are clearly identified in the personalized 2016 Cart Collection Service guide and calendar delivered by Canada Post in December.

“Almost every neighbourhood will have a new day for at least one program starting January 4,” says Wallace.  “We encourage people to help their neighbours catch on to the new collection days for black and blue carts by reminding them if they don’t have their cart out, and by rolling out a cart for someone with physical challenges.”  

In addition to developing more efficient collection routes, the City’s new garbage system tracks where a garbage truck is on a route and confirms when your garbage has been collected. It also identifies any missed collections before a truck leaves the neighbourhood, and reduces the amount of kilometers the trucks travel, which is better for the environment and saves money in gas.

Increased efficiency of waste collection supports the City’s Strategic Goal of Asset and Financial Sustainability and being the best-managed city in Canada.

December 7, 2015 Meeting

7.1.1 Saskatoon Light & Power Smart Meter Program Update

*The committee received the report as information, which outlines progress on the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project as well as steps SL&P has taken to ensure commitment to safety through the smart meter replacement program.
*The AMI network for communicating with electricity and water meters within the SL&P service area has been installed.
*System acceptance testing is underway for the AMI system and integration with the existing billing system is set for early 2016.
*SL&P has completed safety checks for all new and existing meters including inspections of private and SL&P infrastructure.

Background

*In June 2014, City Council approved the implementation of AMI. In early 2015, to ensure a commitment to safety through its smart meter replacement program, SL&P announced plans to conduct safety checks on all meter installations.

7.1.2 Building Better Infrastructure: Water & Wastewater Systems

*The committee received the report as information. The report provides information on the sanitary collection and water distribution inventory, value, condition, and asset management initiatives.
* Saskatoon currently has $3.39 and $2.84 billion of sanitary collection and water distribution assets.
*The water distribution system’s current preventative maintenance funding levels are sufficient for distribution mains. Further information is required to appropriately assess service connections, primary mains, valves and hydrants.
*The sanitary collection system’s current preventative maintenance funding levels are sufficient for sanitary collection mains and service connections. Further information is required to appropriately assess force mains, sanitary trunk mains and manholes.

Background

*The sources of data contained in the report are the City’s Geographical Information System (GIS) database, asset management databases, past contract values, and operations and maintenance records.

7.2.1 Service Saskatoon – Free Public WiFi Service

*The report will be forwarded to City Council for information. It provides information on the procurement process, and the business partner selected to provide citizens, visitors and businesses with free public WiFi service at a number of City-owned facilities.

Background

*A Request for an Expression of Interest and a Request for Proposal were issued for providing free public WiFi service in City customer-serving facilities.
*Shaw Communications has been awarded the agreement and will provide free WiFi at no cost to the City in transit terminals, recreation and sport facilities, libraries and City Hall.

7.2.5 Update from Corporate IT

*The report will be forwarded to City Council for information. It articulates high level activities the Information Technology (IT) division has been focused on during the past 6 months.

Background

*An independent consulting report recommended the development of a multi-year business plan determining how IT will support the strategic direction of the City. Based on the results of this review, IT launched a new vision and mandate statement in July 2015. Main components to the vision outlined in the IT Division are:
•Being a strategic business partner empowering our citizens and the Corporation in effectively utilizing technology to access our programs and services.
•IT would become the leaders in innovative business solutions for our business partners providing the effective and efficient use of the corporations’ resources. In conjunction with the development of a strategic business plan for IT, activities that are in alignment with goals of the Corporation have been initiated.

December 7, 2015 Meeting

7.1.1 Update on Railway Delays

*The report updates ongoing operational issues with Canadian National Railway in the southwest part of the city and provides an overview of the Rail Working Group.
*Administration will:
-provide a report with the traffic projections for Marquis Drive and 51st Street between Wanuskewin and Millar Avenue after opening of the new commuter parkway bridge
-provide a report with the criteria and assessment used in deciding which crossings to evaluate for the possibility of grade separation, including traffic counts, traffic projections, frequency of delays, length of delays, or whatever other criteria were used and to include a fact-based rationale for which crossings were selected, which were not, and why.
-review the possible relocation of the CN freight yards
-be instructed to review the relocation of the CP Yards in Sutherland and that they entertain the joint use/co-sharing of the CN mainline south of the city.

 Background

*In January, 2015 City Council resolved a committee be established between the City, CN, and CP to develop solutions to reduce delays resulting from at-grade railway crossings.
*In September, a letter was sent to the Regional Director of Transport Canada requesting clarification of jurisdiction and enforcement of regulations on the spur line at 11th Street West. To date, there has not been a response.

7.1.3 Varsity View Neighbourhood Traffic Review – Main Street and Wiggins Avenue

*The committee received the report outlining results of the additional public consultation with Varsity View residents and the Community Association on the proposed temporary traffic restriction at Main Street and Wiggins Avenue.

Background

*Administration will proceed with three relatively minor changes to signage along Main Street to mitigate shortcutting traffic. The majority of residents did not support the first restriction which included installing a raised curb to restrict east-west vehicular movement.

7.2.2 Neighbourhood Traffic Review – Revised Process

*The report outlines proposed changes to the Traffic Calming Guidelines and Tools document.
*The proposed changes include that major roadway modifications are made on a temporary basis for at least one year, at which time the Administration will evaluate impacts to traffic and collect community feedback to determine the level of support for maintaining the changes.
*The committee recommends to City Council that the Administration:
-be directed to update the “Traffic Calming Guidelines and Tools” procedure.

-be directed to proceed with current and 2016 Neighbourhood Traffic Reviews as outlined, until the Traffic Calming Guidelines and Tools document has been updated and approved by Council.

Background

*In November, the committee asked Administration to report back with recommendations on a clear policy regarding the endorsement of a final Neighbourhood Traffic Review, including a process outlining alternatives where some elements of a Neighbourhood Traffic Review may not be acceptable to Council.

City Council approved a 3.96% property tax increase at final budget deliberations yesterday which translates to a $64.70 per year increase, or $5.40 per month based on an average residential assessment value of $325,000.

** All figures in millions

Highlights of the Final 2016 Budget 

Transportation: 7% increase in expenditures or total change of $8.2 million over 2015

Snow & Ice Management: City Council resolved to dedicate 0.55% ($1.039M) of the increase to snow and ice programs in 2016, and instructed the Administration to bring forward similar increases in 2017 through 2020.  This additional funding will be used to improve snow removal programs immediately, and over a number of years of phased-in increases, this funding could eventually be sufficient to fund city-wide snow removal on residential streets when conditions warrant.  The January SPC on Transportation will be considering improved service levels to implement in 2016 and beyond, and is expected to make recommendations for Council to consider at its January meeting.

Snow disposal sites are a major consideration of this initiative for future years.  As such, Council has directed the Administration to bring forward detailed options and funding implications to the 2017 budget process.

Other Major Initiatives for Transportation in 2016:

• Build the North Commuter Parkway project, Traffic Bridge, interchanges at Boychuk Drive and Highway 16 and at College Drive and McOrmond Drive
• Continued focus on improving the condition of the transportation network through the Building Better Roads Program
• Establish a long-term Transit Strategy
• Utilize automated technology to provide a condition assessment of all of Saskatoon’s roadways
• Free Transit Service on Election Days
• Implement Neighbourhood Traffic Management Process

Environmental Health: 0.72% decrease in expenditures or total reduction of $0.14 million over 2015

• Funding approved for Major Initiatives that include the first phase of a Dutch Elm Disease Response Plan to prevent loss of urban forest trees and to increase public awareness; Recovery Park; a Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Business Plan; Community Waste Reduction and Resource Recovery aimed at the Household Hazardous Waste Program in 2016; and Landfill Replacement Reserve
• To support waste diversion from the Saskatoon Landfill, the 2016 Green Cart Program subscription remains unchanged at $55 per year

Utilities: 4.9% increase or total change of $14.0 million in expenditures over 2015 - Capital $2.9 million,
ROI $3 million Operations (2.8%) $8.1 million

• For major initiatives that include continued Conservation Education Programs Odour Abatement
• Saskatoon Light & Power’s Green Energy Generation Projects; Additional power source-reliability; and infrastructure renewal funding strategies
• Water Treatment Plant upgrades to reliability and efficiency; additional fill main & reservoir in the NE and E Sectors
• Waste Water Treatment Plant Odour Abatement  with a goal of reduction to 76%; and addition of Fourth Digester/Liquid Waste Haulers Station/ Lift Station upgrades

Urban Planning & Development: 2.87% increase in expenditures or total change of $0.4 million over 2015

• For Major Initiatives that include the Growth Plan to Half a Million; New Regional Plan; New Active Transportation Plan; Parking Strategy; Comprehensive Re-write of the Building Bylaw; and Centralized Bylaw Enforcement through the Community Standards Division

Community Support: 2.54% increase in expenditures or total change of $0.4 million over 2015

• For Major Initiatives that include partnerships and programs for the Urban Aboriginal Leadership Program; the Age Friendly Saskatoon Action Plan; Immigration Action Plan; Culture Plan Implementation; and renewal of Accessibility Action Plan

Recreation & Culture: 3.65% increase in expenditures or total change of $1.74 million over 2015

• Major Initiatives include Recreation and Parks Master Plan implementation; planning for the next Leisure Centres; development of a sustainable plan for the maintenance of Parks & Recreation assets; and establishment of a PotashCorp Playland Asset Replacement and Maintenance Reserve

Fire: 3.3% increase in expenditures or total change of $1.49 million over 2015

• Expanded operations requiring additional resources due to the expansion of the city’s population and physical boundaries, and to meet the Service Levels established by City Council

Corporate Asset Management: 6.2% increase in expenditures or total change of $0.6 million over 2015

• For Major Initiatives that include enhancement of the Corporate Radio Communications network to meet civic demand and city growth; development of core capital renewal principles and funding strategies for long-term asset preservation; and corporate partnerships in Asset Management and Service Agreements to support program delivery

Corporate Governance & Finance: 6.99% increase in expenditures or total change of $4.5 million over 2015

• Service Saskatoon – 311/Customer Relationship Management
• For other Major Initiatives that include service levels for assets and preventative maintenance; continued Civic Service Reviews to ensure continuous improvement; risk management; strategies for Citizen Engagement; alternate sources of revenue through bundling advertising opportunities

Land Development: 24.34% decrease in expenditures or total reduction of $2.1 million over 2015

• Major Initiatives include the continued servicing of initial phases of Aspen Ridge; extending arterial roads and trunk sewers into Aspen Ridge and Brighton; Elk Point Concept Plan; new park construction throughout the city; and continuing to service last phases in Marquis Industrial Area for further employment growth

Taxation & General Revenues: 6.38% increase or total change of $21.9 million over net revenue 2015

• Major Initiatives include investigating alternate revenue sources to help alleviate pressure on the property tax levy; examining User Fees and Subsidies Policy; and analysis of Non-Tax Revenue

For more related budget reports, visit saskatoon.ca > Budget & Finances

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

Following two days of final budget deliberations, City Council has approved a 3.96% property tax increase which translates to a $64.70 per year increase, or $5.40 per month based on an average residential assessment value of $325,000. 

** All figures in millions

The preliminary budget initially had proposed a 3.95% property tax increase of which 3.57% was allocated to the Building Better Roads Program (year three of a planned four-year phase-in) and Policing.“The 2016 budget investment is based on Council’s full consideration of a variety of challenges facing our growing city,” says Kerry Tarasoff, Chief Financial Officer and General Manager, Asset & Financial Management. “The need for preservation and maintenance of infrastructure, providing appropriate emergency services for safe communities, and ensuring quality of life through City services were key decision drivers.”

“Bigger-picture inputs like the City’s Strategic Plan, citizen input gained through public engagement held throughout 2015, and the City’s Performance Measures which measure successes and track progress towards our set goals were also considered by Council in their decision making for 2016 budgetary spending,” Tarasoff says.

The Administration advanced numerous adjustments to the 2016 Business Plan and Budget, leading to further discussion, and additions and reductions to arrive at the current property tax increase of 3.96% for 2016:

• City Council resolved to dedicate 0.55% (which amounts to $1.039M of the property tax increase) to snow and ice programs in 2016, and instructed the Administration to prepare the 2017 through 2020 preliminary budgets with a similar additional allocations in each year.  This additional funding will be used to improve snow removal programs immediately, and over a number of years of phased-in increases, this funding could eventually be sufficient to fund city-wide snow removal on residential streets when conditions warrant. 
• The January SPC on Transportation will be considering improved service levels to implement in 2016 and beyond, and is expected to make recommendations for Council to consider at its January meeting.
• Snow disposal sites are a major consideration of this initiative for future years.  As such, Council has directed the Administration to bring forward detailed options and funding implications to the 2017 budget process.
• The Saskatoon Police Service received funding to hire four officers in January 2016 and four more officers in August, 2016; this results in a final operating budget of $469.3 in staff compensation and operating costs.  
• $50,000 grant approved for Saskatoon Tourism adding .03% to mill rate.
• $65,000 approved for Truth and Reconciliation Commission initiatives planned for 2016 or a .03% addition to the mill rate.
• Net impact of $45,000 for an addition Customer Service Position withing Urban Planning and Development or a .02% addition to the mill rate.
• $12,000 approved for seniors and residents with limited mobility, specifically for assistance focused on moving their waste and recycling carts equal to a .01% mill rate increase.
• $44,000 approved for the extension of paddling pool hours to maximize daytime use for patrons or a .02% mill rate increase.

City Council allocated all of the revised assessment growth, $1,248,100 in total, to reduce the mill rate. This reduced the impact by 0.66 % which resulted in a final property tax increase of 3.96%.

With rapid growth, and the City’s non-tax revenues declining as a share of the budget, there’s been a greater reliance on property tax to fund City operations. City Council and Administration  remain committed to their long-term 10-Year Strategy of increasing alternate revenue sources and reducing the reliance on residential property taxes as a source of revenue to pay for ongoing operations. To address the needs of citizens today and tomorrow, the City is focused on the long-term goal of managing the City in a smart, sustainable way.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

Shaw Communications has been selected as the City’s first partner to provide free public WiFi service to 41 City facilities, Saskatoon Transit hubs and other select locations.

“Providing free access to the internet at various civic facilities is a great step toward ensuring citizens feel well connected and confident in the service being provided by their City,” says Rob Gilhuly, Service Saskatoon Manager.

Shaw customers will be able to automatically log onto the WiFi service through the Shaw Go WiFi network. Citizens and visitors can sign up for Guest Access on the Shaw Go WiFi network when visiting one of the participating City facilities.

“Free WiFi in our Leisure Centres will be a great way for more citizens to access the Drop-in Online service on our website,” says Lynne Lacroix, Director of Recreation & Community Development. “They will be able to get the latest drop-in schedule information for their favourite classes and activities, and can always be aware of any program cancellations.”

“Free public WiFi at transit terminals will be a great addition to the services provided for transit customers. It will provide additional convenience for individuals waiting for the bus and to those who want to use the transit app or google transit to check the status of the next bus,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit.

The City and Shaw will meet later this month to confirm facilities and installation schedules in 2016. A schedule of installation will be available on saskatoon.ca as it becomes available.

From the November 23, 2015 meeting of City Council

8.1.10 City of Saskatoon’s Response to Refugee Crisis – Additional Information

*City Council resolved that:
-the process for privately sponsored refugees to qualify for the Leisure Access Program and corresponding Discounted Bus Pass program be approved.
-a grant of $6,000, from the Community Initiatives Grant Reserve, is approved.
-Administration report back in early 2017 regarding the process for privately sponsored refugees qualifying for the Leisure Access Program and corresponding Discounted Bus Pass Program.

9.2.1 Optimist Winter Recreation Park and Lifestyle Activity Centre

*City Council:
-approved the planned approach for donor solicitation, recognition, and offering of naming rights to the Winter Recreation Park and Lifestyle Activity Centre and surrounding amenities, subject to the Administration, in consultation with the Office of the City Solicitor, receiving and reviewing any naming rights agreements for the same.
-approved the proposed name of the facility “Optimist Hill at Diefenbaker Park”.

Additional Information:

*The Optimist Club has contracted a consultant to prepare a Capital Campaign strategy to raise funds for upgrades to the toboggan hill in Diefenbaker Park.
*The Optimist Club plans to launch the funding campaign, and in order to do so, the approval of City Council is required in terms of donor solicitation and recognition.
*In 2014, City Council approved a report recommending that Diefenbaker Park be approved, in principle, as the proposed location for the Optimist Club’s WRPLAC; approved the submission of the Optimist Club Business Plan for the WRPLAC; and approved the 2015 Capital Budget.
*In 2015, the City signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Optimist Club which is intended to set out the basic business terms upon which the Club shall proceed to refine the business plan, solicit funding for the WRPLAC, and lead to the negotiation of a lease and operating agreement for the facility.

9.4.1 North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge – Procurement Complete

*City Council received the report.

Additional Information:

*The procurement for the project is complete and was a fair process.
*The procurement was competitive and based on the bid from Graham Commuter Partners; the approved funding plan will meet all financial obligations.
*The project came in under budget.
*The 30-year monthly payments are linked to performance.

9.4.2 North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge – Technical Advisory Consulting Services

*City Council adopted the following motion:
-That the scope of the Engineering Services Agreement with CIMA+ for the provision of technical advisory services for the North Commuter Parkway, at a total estimated cost of $3,824,899.00 (plus G.S.T.), be increased by $2,423,276.00 (plus G.S.T.) in fees to include all Technical Advisory Consulting Services for the duration of the project, as modified from a Design-Build to a Public-Private Partnership procurement model
-That the City Solicitor be authorized to amend the Engineering Services Agreement to increase the increased scope outlined in this report.

Additional Information:

*CIMA+ was retained in 2013 to provide Technical Advisory Consulting Services for the North Commuter Parkway project.
*The original scope of services was based on a design-build delivery model for the project.
*At the time of award of the Engineering Services Agreement to CIMA+, the Administration advised that the City would negotiate a change order with CIMA+ in the event a Public-Private Partnership (P3) procurement model were adopted for the project. As such, it is now a “design build, finance, operate and maintain” project.
*The total budget of the Engineering Services Agreement with CIMA+ for provision of technical support services for the duration of the P3 project through Substantial Completion is recommended to be increased by $2,423,276.00 (plus G.S.T.).

9.6.1 North North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge Project – Borrowing Bylaw

*City Council passed Bylaw No. 9325, The North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge Project Borrowing Amendment Bylaw, 2015, which is the amendment required to Bylaw No. 9313 to provide for the specific financing of the North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge Project now that financial close has been achieved.

Additional Information:

*Commercial and Financial Close has now been achieved with Graham Commuter Partners General Partnership. The actual borrowing and the interest rate of the borrowing are less than what was provided for in Bylaw No. 9313. This Bylaw amends Bylaw No. 9313 to reflect the financing achieved at financial close.
*Similar to a home mortgage, Bylaw No. 9325 provides for a deferred capital payment of $96,592,997.93 to be repaid over 30 years and an interest rate of 4.513% per annum. Both of these numbers are less than the maximums approved by City Council in Bylaw No. 9313.

9.6.4 Regulation of Electronic Cigarettes/Vaping

*City Council passed Bylaw No. 9334, The Smoking Control Amendment Bylaw, 2015 (No. 2).
*In addition, City Council also resolved:
-That the Administration bring forward an amendment to include an exemption for ceremonial tobacco use and vaping shops in The Smoking Control Bylaw, 2004.
-That the Administration bring forward an amendment to include an exemption for vaping shops in The Smoking Control Bylaw, 2004, including a clear definition of a "vaping shop".
-That the Administration report back should there be any regulatory changes as it relates to vaping.

Additional Information:

*In August, Council received a report recommending options for the expansion of existing smoking prohibitions under The Smoking Control Bylaw to include the use of electronic cigarettes. Council resolved that electronic cigarette use be restricted in a manner consistent with current smoking restrictions under the Bylaw and The Tobacco Control Act and that the City Solicitor prepare the necessary bylaw amendment.

9.7.1 Update on Education for Sustainable Development Partnership Program: Student Action for a Sustainable Future

*City Council received the report as information.

Additional Information:

*the report outlines the results of the 2014-2015 Student Action for a Sustainable Future program, a creation of the Education for Sustainable Development Partnership that includes the City.
*The program has led to measurable classroom, school, and household greenhouse gas reductions and sustainability benefits.
*Results of the first two years of the pilot program are now featured in a video and available on the Saskatoon.ca/studentaction website.
*The Saskatchewan Environmental Society has been contracted to coordinate the program for the 2015-2016 school year. Participating classrooms were selected in October 2015 and the program is now underway.

9.11.6 Municipal Governance Structure

*City Council adopted the following motion:
-That the following changes be implemented with respect to the City of Saskatoon’s municipal governance structure:

a. Executive Committee be renamed the Governance and Priorities Committee and remain a Committee of all members of Council; the Governance and Priorities Committee’s mandate includes: governance, strategic priorities, annual business plan and budget process, legal matters, human resource and collective bargaining issues and government relations; and, the Governance and Priorities Committee continues to meet on the third Monday of every month;

b. That City Council have the ability to extend a Regular Business Meeting past 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. upon a majority vote of the members present; and

c. That for Public Hearings, members be prohibited from voting when absent for an entire Hearing; members vote when they have missed part of a Hearing but have reviewed a summary or a recording of what was missed; and, procedural provisions be included which aid in preventing members from missing small parts of Hearings.

-That the City Solicitor be instructed to amend The Procedures and Committees Bylaw, 2014 (the “Bylaw”) to implement the changes to the governance structure.
-That the calendar which contains the Governance and Priorities Committee (Option 2) be adopted for 2016.

Additional Information:

*the report considers a number of improvements for the City’s governance structure and provides the above recommendations.

City Council and Administration will deliberate the 2016 Preliminary Corporate Business Plan & Budget: Shaping our Financial Future on November 30, December 1, and December 3 from 1:00 pm – 11:00 pm in City Council Chambers. The proposed 2016 Budget aims to meet various challenges facing the City by improving services, expanding infrastructure investment, enhancing quality of life and addressing public safety. A number of budget related reports and initiatives are included in the Preliminary Budget Agenda.

“Our budget investments are aligned with the City’s 2013 - 2023 Strategic Plan, and support the City in meeting the goals and priorities identified in the Plan,” says Clae Hack, Director of Finance “Citizen feedback gathered through various public engagement activities held this year, reconfirmed snow and ice, road maintenance, and public safety as priority items for 2016.”  

The Preliminary 2016 Budget proposes a 3.95% municipal property tax increase which is expected to generate an additional $7.47 million. If approved as is, based on the average household assessment of $325,000, the impact will be a total of $64.83 per year or $5.40 per month. Of this proposed total, more than half will go toward the Building Better Roads Campaign and traffic noise attenuation projects.

The 2016 Business Plan and Budget renews an ongoing commitment to Continuous Improvement, as the City proposes to implement approximately $1.35 million in operational efficiencies to reduce the costs associated with delivering programs and services.

The City’s budgetary planning is inspired by the idea that we invest in what matters. The financial and physical resources under our care are used to address the needs of citizens today and tomorrow – focused on our long-term goal to manage the City in a smart, sustainable way.

Full details of the entire 2016 Preliminary Corporate Business Plan & Budget can be viewed on saskatoon.ca.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

ONGOING

NIGHT WORK: UNIVERSITY DR WB CLOSED FROM 13TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Sanitary lining)
Start: November 18, 9:00 p.m. End: November 19, 6:00 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 33RD ST W
(Manhole repair)
Start: November 18, 8:00 p.m. End: November 19, 7:00 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 a.m. End: November 26, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: December 4, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

The City of Saskatoon is pleased to announce it has finalized a Project Agreement with Graham Commuter Partners (GCP) for the North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge project. This is the City’s second Public-Private-Partnership (P3) project. 

The Project Agreement covers a period of 33 years (3 years for construction and 30 years for operation and maintenance). Over that timeframe, GCP will design, build, finance, operate and maintain the North Commuter Parkway, which includes the new river crossing and extensions of Central Avenue and McOrmond Drive; and will design, build, finance and maintain the Traffic Bridge.

“The City will retain ownership of all assets throughout the entire contract period,” says Jeff Jorgenson, General Manager, Transportation & Utilities.

The capital costs, including the fixed cost price from GCP, came in at $238.8 million. Once the costs of operation, maintenance and rehabilitation are added in, the total estimated costs for the 33 year period are $497.7 million (including inflation). These figures are in line with the project funding plan. Upon substantial completion of the project, the City will pay GCP $108.7 million. Following that, the City will make monthly payments to GCP for a period of 30 years.

GCP is a consortium comprised of Gracorp Capital LP, Graham Infrastructure, Buckland & Taylor, Tetra Tech, Clifton, ASL Paving, BBGI, and National Bank Financial.

Construction is expected to start on the new Traffic Bridge in the coming weeks. Work on the North Commuter Parkway will get underway early in the new year. Substantial completion of both bridges is scheduled for October 2018.

For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/bridging.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

City Council will begin deliberations on the proposed 2016 Business Plan and Budget at the end of November. It will consider the feedback of more than 500 Saskatoon residents who accessed and participated in the City’s new online Citizen Budget tool. 

“The online results indicate road maintenance and snow and ice management as areas where investing slightly more may be acceptable,” says Director of Communications Carla Blumers. “For the large majority of other nine service areas, most respondents suggested no change or investing slightly less.” 

Between October 19 and November 13, 2015, all Saskatoon residents, not only homeowners, were encouraged to share their comments on what matters the most to them and indicate where they would like the City to prioritize spending for the 2016 Budget. 

Blumers is pleased with the results and thanks residents for participating in Citizen Budget and offering their valuable input. 

“There were 3,782 overall page views, with 2,447 unique visits and a total of 503 residents submitted feedback.” 

While the interactive portion of Citizen Budget is now closed, Saskatoon residents are encouraged to continue exploring the educational budget tool and related information on the City’s website at saskatoon.ca/financialfuture. 

Information gathered through Citizen Budget has been validated by a third party software provider who has several mechanisms in place to eliminate duplicate responses. As mentioned, final validated results are now available on the City’s website at saskatoon.ca/financialfuture. Comments made by participants will also be posted on the site, once they are summarized. 

“Citizen Budget was built around other public engagement activities held in June, and followed the launch of the City’s new budget video series geared toward helping residents easily understand the budget process and how property taxes work,” Blumers says. 

Council and Administration will consider priorities and preferences gathered through Citizen Budget and the June engagement activities during budget deliberations, set for November 30, December 1 and 3, 2015. 

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook. 

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

NEW

1ST AVE S SB CLOSED FROM 21ST ST E TO 20TH ST E
(Crane lift)
Start: November 18, 6:00 a.m. End: November 18, 7:30 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 33RD ST W
(Manhole repair)
Start: November 18, 8:00 p.m. End: November 19, 7:00 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: UNIVERSITY DR WB CLOSED FROM 13TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Sanitary lining)
Start: November 18, 9:00 p.m. End: November 19, 6:00 a.m.

ONGOING

HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass and Idylwyld Dr N now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 a.m. End: November 26, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

The City has partnered to host Wicihitowin “Working Together” conference, November 17 and 18, in an effort to increase Aboriginal engagement and service delivery. 

“Aboriginal engagement and inclusion is an important issue in our community,” says Gilles Dorval, Director of Aboriginal Relations. “Working together – the theme of our first Aboriginal Engagement Conference – will be important in delivering enhanced programs and services to better meet the needs of our Aboriginal citizens.”

This conference is presented in partnership with the United Way, Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon Health Region, and other Community-Based Organizations. Its goal is to help provide support to the many organizations across Saskatchewan that are inclusive of Aboriginal people as employees, volunteers and decision makers – especially in the understanding of Aboriginal people in the context of historic and contemporary issues.

“We hope the conference will influence organizations that serve Aboriginal people to be representative of the Aboriginal community in their workforce and in decision making capacities in governance,” says Ashley Kayseas, Director, Aboriginal Relations, United Way of Saskatoon and Area.

An Elders/Old People workshop – held in conjunction – will focus on incorporating Aboriginal values in programs and services. The session will build a learning document to be available as an introductory guide for individuals who have questions about protocol and the appropriate role of Elders and Old People within their organizations.

Wicihitowin supports the City’s Strategic Goal of “Quality of Life” by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

NEW

22ND ST W WB CLOSED AT AVE K S
(Sanitary connection repair)
Start: November 17, 7:30 a.m. End: November 17, 5:30 p.m.

PRESTON AVE S NB CLOSED FROM TAYLOR ST E TO 8TH ST E
(Sewer maintenance)
Start: November 17, 8:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N NB/SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) AND CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT CIRCLE DR E
(Light fixture repairs)
Idylwyld Dr NB/SB curb lanes closed starting at noon when median lanes open.
Start: November 17, 9:00 a.m. End: November 17, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR N SB CLOSED AT 19TH ST W
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 p.m. End: November 17, 7:00 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR S NB CLOSED FROM 19TH ST E TO 20TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
All traffic will exit at 1st Ave.
Start: November 16, 8:00 p.m. End: November 17, 7:00 a.m.

HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass and Idylwyld Dr N now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 a.m. End: November 26, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

The latest budget status report update, to be received by the Executive Committee today, shows a balanced budget is projected by the end of the year. 

“The business plan and budget has benefited overall in part from savings driven by lower than expected fuel costs and good construction weather,” says Kim Matheson, Director of Strategic & Business Planning. “The City also received a $1.46 million Workers Compensation Board refund.” 

“More money than expected from the Provincial power and natural gas companies, better returns on our investments, as well as savings and extra provincial funding for policing also contributed to this positive third quarter projection.”

So the City can react accordingly, status updates on the Corporate Business Plan and Budget each quarter help to ensure City Council and its Administration are aware of emerging financial issues and challenges.

To that end, City Administration is aware certain business lines face deficits because of more aggressive street sweeping, implementing a new parking system, lower electricity sales and the delayed rollout in the provincial Multi-Material Recycling Program. Fortunately, shortfalls can be cushioned with reserves or continuous improvement and cost-cutting measures.

“Additionally, building permit numbers and construction values continue to be strong,” Matheson says.  “At roughly this time last year, there were three construction permits with a value higher than $10 million; this year, there are seven such projects – which is another indicator Saskatoon’s economy remains strong.”

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

The City’s Public Art Program invites all residents to meet the artist finalists at a public consultation for an upcoming art placement on Central Avenue.

The City’s Public Art Advisory Committee (PAAC) has shortlisted three artists from the many submissions received for the placement:  Paul Reimer, Tony Stallard, and the artist team of Jarus and Kwest.

MEET THE FINALISTS:  Central Avenue Public Art Consultation
Thursday, November 19, 2015
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – “Come and Go”
Sutherland Evangelical Church Community Room
108 - 104^th Street West, Sutherland

This is a come-and-go session with the artists presenting their concepts and answering questions from the public.  The PAAC will take the public’s feedback into consideration when making their final selection for the winning artist later in November.

For more information on the City’s Public Art Program, please visit www.saskatoon.ca/publicart.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

- 30 -

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

NEW

IDYLWYLD DR S SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 a.m. End: November 26, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR N SB CLOSED AT 19TH ST W
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 p.m. End: November 17, 7:00 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR S NB CLOSED FROM 19TH ST E TO 20TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
All traffic will exit at 1st Ave.
Start: November 16, 8:00 p.m. End: November 17, 7:00 a.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR S SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT RUTH ST W
(Overpass repairs)
Start: November 16, 8:00 p.m. End: November 16, 6:00 a.m.

ONGOING

HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass and Idylwyld Dr N now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

NEW

2ND AVE S & 3RD AVE S CLOSED FROM 19TH ST TO 23RD ST
(Santa Claus Parade)
19th St closed from Ave A to 3rd Ave. 23rd St closed from 1st Ave to 3rd Ave
Start: November 15, 9:30 a.m. End: November 15, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

UPDATE: HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass and Idylwyld Dr N now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

The City of Saskatoon invites residents to participate in the second round of public engagement for the city’s first Active Transportation Plan (ATP).  Starting Friday, November 20, through Wednesday, December 9, 2015, there will be multiple opportunities to learn more and provide feedback on the recommendations being considered in the draft long-term plan for active transportation.

ATP Come-and-Go Public Events
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Station 20 West, 1120 20^th Street West
11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Cosmo Civic Centre, 3130 Laurier Drive
4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Cosmopolitan Senior Centre, 614 11^th Street East
4:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

ATP Online Survey
Friday, November 20 to Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Review the draft plan and provide feedback online at www.growingfwd.ca/activetransportation.

The ATP is part of the City’s Growth Plan to Half a Million and will provide a 30-year roadmap to increase opportunities for walking, biking, and other forms of active transportation in Saskatoon.  The plan is scheduled to be completed by Spring 2016 and will shape changes to infrastructure and support programs to encourage all of us to use active transportation more often – whether for work, pleasure, shopping, visiting friends and family, or running errands.

For more information on the ATP, or to sign up for project update notifications, please visit www.growingfwd.ca/activetransportation.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours, and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

There are only two days left to visit Citizen Budget! Tell us what you think about the City’s proposed 2016 Budget - spend more, spend less or spend about the same? Citizen Budget will be closed after Friday, November 13. Consider taking ten minutes to help shape Saskatoon’s financial future.

Not just for property owners, Citizen Budget  is the City of Saskatoon’s new online tool for gathering public feedback. The interactive and educational survey tool provides Saskatoon citizens an opportunity to comment on what their budget priorities would be, and preferences around key civic services and programs. Citizen Budget also offers an opportunity to provide general comments on any other budget matters of concern.

Importantly, City Council and Administration will consider all public feedback gathered through Citizen Budget prior to their final budget deliberations, November 30, December 1 & 3, 2015. Visitors to City Hall can also leave their comments at the budget display in the front lobby.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

-30-

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

NEW

CIRCLE DR SB RAMP CLOSED TO 22ND ST WB
(Guardrail repair)
Traffic will be squeezed into the shoulder on Thursday and Friday, Nov 12th & 13th.
Start: November 12, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

TAYLOR ST E EB & WB CLOSED AT CLARENCE AVE S
(Valve replacement)
Clarence Avenue NB curb lane closed approaching Taylor St.
Start: November 12, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

From the November 9, 2015 Committee Meetings

SPC on Transportation

7.2.1 Update on the Development of the Active Transportation Plan (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The report provides an update on the development of the Active Transportation Plan (ATP). A motion to support the recommendation to receive the report as information was supported unanimously by the Committee.

Background

*The ATP is being developed in five phases. The project is roughly 50% complete.
*Since the ATP was launched in April, over 2,000 residents and stakeholders have been engaged through various activities and events.
*It is anticipated that the ATP will contain recommendations in the following areas:

-bicycle parking and integration with transit
-land use and growth plans to support moving around with active transportation
-maintenance and accessibility
-education and awareness
-safety
-connectivity of walking and cycling facilities

7.2.4 Amendments to Bylaw No. 7200, The Traffic Bylaw – Speed Limit Changes (Matters Requiring Direction)

*A motion to recommend to Council to support the recommendations in the report was supported unanimously by the Committee.
Recommendations of the report are as follows:

1. That a speed limit of 60 kph on Range Road 3060 from the north City Limit south to highway 16 be established.
2. That a speed limit of 60 kph on Wanuskewin Road between 51st Street to a point 450 metres north of Adilman Drive be established.
3. That a speed limit of 70 kph on Wanuskewin Road from a point 450 metres north of Adilman Drive to a point 370 metres north of 71st Street be established.
4. That a speed limit of 80 kph on Range Road 3055 from 71st Street West to the north City Limit be established.
5. That a speed limit of 90 kph on Wanuskewin Road from a point 370 metres north of 71st Street to the north City Limit be established.
6. That a speed limit of 90 kph on 71st Street West from Thatcher Avenue west to the City Limits be established.
7. That a speed limit of 100 kph on Highway 11 from a point 470 meters south of Circle Drive East to the south City Limit be established.
8. That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the appropriate bylaw amendment to Bylaw No. 7200, The Traffic Bylaw to go into effect February 1, 2016.

Background

*The City recently annexed roadways which previously were regulated by the Provincial Traffic Safety Act and must now be included in The Traffic Bylaw.

7.2.7 Neighbourhood Traffic Review Process – Updated Process (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee unanimously supported a motion for the Administration to report back to the Committee with recommendations on a clear policy regarding the endorsement of a final Neighbourhood Traffic Review, including a process outlining alternatives where some elements of a Neighbourhood Traffic Review may not be acceptable to City Council.

Background

*The report outlines proposed changes to the ‘Traffic Calming Guidelines and Tools’ document. Changes are required due to concerns recently raised at City Council about the ability of the Neighbourhood Traffic Review process to lead directly to permanent road restrictions or significant roadway changes, and how input is sought from throughout the community.

7.2.8 8th Street Transit Corridor Review (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee unanimously supported a motion to recommend to City Council 1)  that Saskatoon Transit be directed to further develop the service along 8th Street and 2) that the Administration report back by April 2016 so City Council can decide whether to implement changes in July of 2016.

Background

*Saskatoon Transit Administration has reviewed the service currently provided along the 8th Street Corridor. Planners identified the possibility of re-deploying current resources and achieving service approaching 5 minute frequencies along 8th Street during peak hours, and 10 minute frequency for the remainder of weekdays and on Saturday. Frequency of 30 minutes would be provided on evenings (Monday to Saturday), early Saturday mornings, and on statutory holidays and Sundays.

7.2.10 Sidewalk Snow Clearing Enforcement Process – Implementation (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee unanimously supported a motion to forward the report to City Council as information.

Background

*In February, the Committee received a report from the Administration recommending options to improve sidewalk snow clearing compliance through the Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw. The Committee then asked Administration to provide an implementation report outlining details.

*The new sidewalk clearing enforcement procedure is designed to increase compliance and decrease clearing time.
*A detailed, objective inspection process will be followed to establish compliance.
*Discretion will be used for seniors and residents with disabilities.
*City property will conform to the requirements of the Sidewalk Clearing Bylaw.

SPC on Environment, Utilities & Corporate Services  

6.3.1 Greenhouse Gas Reduction Recommendations (New Matters)

*The Committee referred this matter to the Saskatoon Environmental Advisory Committee for information and to the Administration for a report.

Background

*The Saskatchewan Environmental Society presented recommendations based on its observations about best places to start in reducing community-wide greenhouse gas emissions in Saskatoon.

7.2.1 Strategic Plan: 2015 Progress Report for Performance Measures (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee supported the recommendation to forward the report to City Council for information.

Background

*Performance Measures for our 2013-2023 Strategic Plan were approved by City Council in April after consultations with citizens and stakeholders.
*2015 Mid-year updates are available for 16 of the 25 corporate performance measures.
*All divisions have identified initiatives and supporting measures that contribute to the corporate targets.
*Next Steps: “Our Performance” website will be updated with mid-year progress towards targets, how we are making strides, opportunities for improvement, and strategies for success.

7.2.3 2015 Curbside Swap (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee supported the recommendation to forward the report to City Council for information.

Background

*Program feedback and survey results show that both the 2014 and 2015 Curbside Swap events were well attended. In 2015 nearly 900 participants on the Facebook event created for Curbside Swap said they would participate.
*50 participating homes were visited by City staff and 61 participants provided their address on Facebook.
*A one-day city-wide Curbside Swap event was held in 2015 to bring greater awareness to the program through focussed communications. Community Associations participated in the Curbside Swap program by either by hosting their own event or by communicating the city-wide event.
*Other Canadian municipalities involved in facilitating swaps hold one-day citywide events in their communities.

7.2.4 Landfill Ban Implementation Considerations (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee supported forwarding a recommendation to the 2016 Business Plan and Budget Review recommending that a phased landfill ban program for paper and cardboard begin in 2016.

Background

*In order to effectively divert waste from all Saskatoon area landfills, a landfill ban program needs to address paper and cardboard at the curb.
*The main considerations for implementing a successful landfill ban program for paper and cardboard in Saskatoon are: a) That all sectors have programs in place to support paper and cardboard diversion prior to enforcing a ban at the landfill. b) That waste haulers, material recovery facilities and landfills are prepared to divert paper and cardboard. c) That extensive stakeholder consultations and education are used in the development and set-up of the program.
*10.7% of the total waste received at the City’s landfill in 2014 was paper and cardboard from the Industrial, Commercial and Institutional sector, presenting a significant opportunity for advancing the waste diversion rate in Saskatoon toward the Performance Target of 70%.

7.2.6 Roadways Design, Construction, and Maintenance – Civic Service Review (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee supported a recommendation to refer the report to the Standing Policy Committee on Finance to consider recommending that the information be received in conjunction with the pending audit on Roadway Maintenance and Rehabilitation and forward the November 9, 2015 report to City Council for information.

Background

*The report is a summary of the Roadways Design, Construction and Maintenance Civic Service Review. Improvements in process and operations in the summary will improve service to citizens through increased effectiveness and will improve efficiency in the delivery of civic services.

7.2.8 Wastewater Treatment Plant – Odour Monitoring System Update (Matters Requiring Direction)

*The Committee supported the recommendation to forward the report, updating the Odour Abatement Project at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, to City Council for information.

Background

*Construction commenced in May 2015 and is currently 25% complete.
*An odour monitoring system is currently being installed at the site by Odotech Inc. and is expected to be collecting data by the end of November 2015.

The Highway 16 over Idylwyld Drive overpass to North Battleford reopened to traffic today as rehabilitation of the structure progresses. The temporary traffic signals installed to control Idylwyld Drive southbound and Highway 16 westbound traffic have also been removed.

Speed restrictions and some lane restrictions will still be required at the intersection over the coming weeks while workers finalize repairs and clean up the site.

The Government of Saskatchewan is responsible for the planning and construction of this project, while the City is responsible for coordinating traffic control.

Details of traffic detours can be found on our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Traffic Detour Service Alerts are available at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts and you can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

NEW

22ND ST W WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) AND CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT CONFEDERATION DR
(Overpass repair)
Start: November 10, 8:00 a.m. End: November 7, 5:00 p.m.

33RD ST W WB CLOSED FROM AVE G N TO AVE I N
(Traffic pole repair)
Start: November 10, 8:00 a.m. End: November 10, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

UPDATE: IDYLWYLD DR N/HWY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS BETWEEN 51ST ST E & MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Overpass now open and temporary traffic signals removed. Speed restrictions still apply.
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 20, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

UPDATE: HWY 11 NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Hwy 11 SB onramp to Circle DR EB closed
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 24, 5:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

PSA
For Immediate Release:  November 3, 2015

CY15-206
REMINDER:  “Refugees Welcome” Information and Awareness Forum TO BE HELD ON Tuesday, November 10, 2015

The City, in partnership with the Saskatoon Refugee Coalition, invites the public to an information and awareness forum entitled, Refugees Welcome:  From Compassion to Action, on Tuesday, November 10, 2015, at the Roxy Theatre.

The forum will include a panel that will be presenting on the refugee crisis from a global, regional, and local perspective.  Community members will share information about specific organizations and the work that is already being done.  Attendees will learn about the various opportunities available and how to get involved.

REFUGEES WELCOME:  INFORMATION AND AWARENESS FORUM
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Roxy Theatre, 320 20th Street West

For more information on the forum, please call 306-975-8459, or email immigration@saskatoon.ca.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

- 30 -

Media, for more information, please contact:
Lynne Lacroix
Director of Recreation and Community Development
City of Saskatoon
306-975-3390

Erin Wolfson
Member
Saskatoon Refugee Coalition
(306) 716-4004

Note to the Media:  Lynne Lacroix, Erin Wolfson, and other community stakeholders will be in attendance for media interviews from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.

NEW

1ST AVE S SB CURB (OUTSIDE) AND MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT 21ST ST E
(Crane lift)
Start: November 9, 6:00 a.m. End: November 9, 9:00 a.m.

LORNE AVE & 8TH ST INTERSECTION CLOSED
(Water & sewer replacement)
Idylwyld Dr NB on ramp maintained via 8th St WB. Idylwyld Dr SB exit to 8th St WB maintained.
Start: November 9, 9:00 a.m. End: November 30, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 11 SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Start: November 9, 10:00 a.m. End: November 10, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD DR N/HIGHWAY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS FROM 51ST ST E TO MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Hwy 11/12 SB curb lane closed at overpass
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 10, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Do you have ten minutes to help shape Saskatoon’s financial future? Visit Citizen Budget the City of Saskatoon’s new online tool for gathering public feedback on how the municipal portion of property tax dollars are spent. Citizen Budget provides Saskatoon citizens an opportunity to comment on key civic services and programs, and also offer general comments on any matters of concern.

Spend more, spend less or spend about the same? There are eight days left to tell us what you think about the City’s proposed 2016 Budget. Citizen Budget will be closed after next Friday, November 13.

Importantly, City Council and Administration will consider all public feedback gathered through Citizen Budget prior to their final budget deliberations, November 30, December 1 & 3, 2015. Visitors to City Hall can also leave their comments at the budget display in the front lobby.

Graham Commuter Partners (GCP) continues to design the North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge project. The group is currently submitting the necessary regulatory permits required to begin construction on the Traffic Bridge as well as doing some exploratory work at the site of the new bridge.

“Construction in the river cannot commence until all permits are received,” says Dan Willems, Special Projects Manager with Major Projects. “GCP is currently proposing the first stages of activity would include mobilizing a staging area in Rotary Park and construction of an earthen berm from the south bank of the river to the existing pier in the centre of the river.

“The staging area will act as the site for construction vehicles and operations, and the berm will allow construction access within the river for the new bridge.”

GCP hopes the Traffic Bridge permits will be received in the coming weeks, and plans to begin construction very soon after these are received. This means residents could soon begin to see activity in and around the Traffic Bridge site.

Under the proposed plan, demolition of the second span in from the Rotary Park riverbank would then proceed, and the central pier would be improved to accommodate the new bridge structure.

“Following this stage of work, which is expected to be complete by April 2016, GCP plans to draw back the earthen berm southward and continue work around the span nearest the Rotary Park riverbank in the 2016 spring and summer season.”

Similar permit applications for the North Commuter Parkway Bridge are being prepared and are expected to be submitted to regulatory authorities by GCP in early 2016.

The City will provide additional design details to the public as they are available. All roadways and bridges will be operational by October 2018.

For more information, visit saskatoon.ca/bridging.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

NEW

22ND ST W WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) AND CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT CONFEDERATION DR
(Overpass repair)
Start: November 7, 8:00 a.m. End: November 7, 5:00 p.m.

33RD ST E EB & WB CLOSED FROM 10TH AVE N TO EDWARD AVE
(Utility patch paving)
Start: November 8, 7:00 a.m. End: November 8, 4:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR N NB PORTION OF OFF RAMP CLOSED AT ATTRIDGE DR
(Lightpole repair)
Start: November 8, 7:30 a.m. End: November 8, 9:00 a.m.

CIRCLE DR E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM WARMAN RD TO SPADINA CRES E
(Laneline painting)
Start: November 8, 7:30 a.m. End: November 8, 4:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB PORTION OF OFF RAMP CLOSED AT LORNE AVE
(Lightpole repair)
Start: November 8, 11:00 a.m. End: November 8, 12:30 p.m.

22ND ST W EB & WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM AVE P N TO AVE Q N
(Light repairs)
Start: November 8, 12:30 p.m. End: November 8, 2:30 p.m.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD FWY NB ONRAMP FROM 8TH ST & LORNE AVENUE CLOSED
(Valve installation)
Use Taylor Street or Broadway Ave. More details saskatoon.ca/LorneSewerRehab
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

CLAYPOOL DR WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM AIRPORT DR TO MCCLOCKIN RD
(Road construction/landscaping)
Start: November 2, 3:00 p.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) & NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Start: November 5, 9:00 a.m. End: November 7, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HIGHWAY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS FROM 51ST ST E TO MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Hwy 11/12 SB curb lane closed at overpass
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 10, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

The northwest leg of Stonebridge Common connecting Preston Avenue to Gordon Road will open today in time for the afternoon commute. The opening of this portion of roadway completes the Stonebridge Common loop and provides increased access for residents of the Stonebridge neighbourhood.

Crews continue to work on storm sewer connections to facilitate the new school site on Gordon Road between the east and west legs of Stonebridge Common. This work is expected to be complete by November 18, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances. The current detours will be adjusted to accommodate the opening of the Stonebridge Common northwest leg.

The City thanks residents for their patience as the involved developers worked to achieve the necessary zoning requirements to open the roadway before winter.

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

Due to the mild weather that Saskatoon has been enjoying, final day of operations for the West Compost Depot has been extended to Sunday, November 8. Residents now have two extra days to bring their unbagged Halloween pumpkins, leaves, grass and non-elm branches to the depot.

West – Highway 7 Depot

• Located at the junction of Highway 7 and 11th Street West
• Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday (November 6-8, 2015)
• 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Closed for the season beginning Monday, November 9

Please note that vehicles will not be admitted into the depot after 5:45 p.m.

Due to the fact that it is not a permanent location, the East Depot will remain closed for the season. Compost materials from the east side will be transferred to the West Depot for processing.

The compost depots will re-open in April, 2016. For more information, including the types of material accepted, visit saskatoon.ca/compost.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

The City will make further strides toward improving waste management following the announcement today the province will launch its Multi-Material Recycling Program (MMRP).

“This is much welcome news,” says Environment and Corporate Initiatives Director Brenda Wallace.  “The funding for municipal recycling initiatives will help ensure our programs are financially sustainable as we work toward our goal of seventy per cent waste diversion by 2023.”

The MMRP is an initiative cost-shared between businesses and municipalities to provide funding to collect recyclables such as newsprint, cardboard, plastic and glass packaging.

An arms-length agency, Multi-Material Stewardship Western (MMSW) collects fees from businesses that produce, sell or distribute packaging to Saskatchewan homes; it then reimburses the municipalities for collecting the recyclables from those products.

Under the program the City could be eligible for more than $900,000 in funding.

“The amount of material diverted from the landfill can reduce environmental impacts,” Wallace says.  “There is no doubt, the funding will help ensure recycling efforts continue to extend the operating life of the landfill and lighten the load on city taxpayers in future.”

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

-30-

Saskatoon Transit, including Access Transit, will provide complimentary bus transportation to and from the 2015 Remembrance Day Ceremonies at SaskTel Centre on Wednesday, November 11. The free bus service will depart as follows:

Downtown Special Events Stop (23^rd Street & 2^nd Avenue) – buses will depart every 15 minutes between 9:00 and 10:15 a.m.

Market Mall – Departure from the mall transit terminal at 9:45 a.m.

The Centre Mall – Departure from the mall transit terminal at 9:45 a.m.

Return trips will begin immediately following the close of ceremonies (approximately 12:15 p.m.). Free service to and from SaskTel Centre will also be available for individuals using Access Transit - regular booking procedures apply.

For more information on Transit’s free Remembrance Day service, please call Transit Customer Service at 306-975-3100.

A special thank you to RBC Royal Bank for proudly sponsoring the free transit service.

Learn more about Saskatoon Transit service by visiting saskatoontransit.ca or following @StoonTransit on Twitter. You can also plan your route in advance using any of the following tools: Saskatoon Transit Trip Planner, Google Transit Trip Planner, or the Transit App on your mobile device.

The City of Saskatoon reminds residents that the final round of public engagement for the Growth Plan to Half a Million (Growth Plan) closes at midnight, Sunday, November 8, 2015.

Have your say!  Visit www.growingfwd.ca to review the final draft plan and provide feedback on the proposed long-term plans and implementation priorities for a new transit system with Bus Rapid Transit (BRT); redevelopment along major corridors like 8^th Street, 22^nd Street, Preston Avenue, and College Drive; and a new river crossing connecting 33^rd Street to Preston Avenue, combined with dedicated BRT lanes on the University Bridge.

Once complete, the Growth Plan will help guide future infrastructure investments and land-use decisions so residents will have more choices for how they live and move around the city as Saskatoon grows to half a million people over the next 30 to 40 years.

For more information on the Growth Plan, or to sign up for project update notifications, visit www.growingfwd.ca.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours, and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon is accepting applications for vacancies on the Advisory Committee on Animal Control, the Albert Community Centre Management Committee, the Library Board, the Centennial Auditorium & Convention Centre Board of Directors (TCU Place), and the Board of Revision/License Appeal Board.

Interested candidates should submit their application, resumé, and two letters of reference using the on-line Committee Application Form and Reference Form located at saskatoon.ca/boards.  The deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday November 27, 2015.  All applications will be kept on file and reviewed throughout the year should further openings occur.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

Saskatoon’s oldest public artwork, the Sergeant (Sgt.) Hugh Cairns Monument has been successfully restored.  While in remarkably good shape for its age, the marble sculpture required professional cleaning and repointing of its granite base.  The work was completed in October of this year as part of the City’s ongoing effort to conserve its collection of commemorations and monuments for future generations. 

The Sgt. Hugh Cairns Monument is a carved marble figure of Saskatoon’s own Hugh Cairns with a soccer ball beneath his foot and a hand on his hip, standing atop a four-piece granite base.  Engraved in the base is a 75-name honour roll of Saskatoon soccer players killed in the First World War.  The monument was installed on the south edge of Kinsmen Park in 1921, on the very field where Hugh Cairns and fellow athletes played soccer before the war.

Hugh Cairns was killed in action in France on November 2, 1918.  On November 1, 1919, he was subsequently awarded the Victoria Cross for his bravery.  He was also awarded France’s highest honour, the Legion of Honour.

The City gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Government of Canada – Veterans Affairs Canada for funds granted from the Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program.  The City would also like to thank the Military Institute of Saskatoon for supporting the grant application. 

For more information on this monument and other artworks and commemorations in the City’s collection, please visit saskatoon.ca/publicart.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only. For updates on road restrictions on other streets including residential, check our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map or Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts.

ONGOING

UPDATE: IDYLWYLD FWY NB ONRAMP FROM 8TH ST & LORNE AVENUE CLOSED
(Valve installation)

Use Taylor Street or Broadway Ave. More details saskatoon.ca/LorneSewerRehab
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

CLAYPOOL DR WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM AIRPORT DR TO MCCLOCKIN RD
(Road construction/landscaping)
Start: November 2, 3:00 p.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

HWY 11 SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) & NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Start: November 5, 9:00 a.m. End: November 7, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HIGHWAY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS FROM 51ST ST E TO MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Hwy 11/12 SB curb lane closed at overpass
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 10, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

A snow storm can happen any day, any time, which is why the City of Saskatoon is ready 24/7 to sand, salt and plow streets as we head into winter. The City’s plan for snow and ice operations this winter builds on last year’s successes, and focusses on providing better winter roads to keep Saskatoon moving during and after a snowfall.

“Last year we introduced some improvements to our operations to increase the effectiveness and efficiencies in the delivery of service, resulting in cost savings and better roads,” says Pat Hyde, Director of Public Works. “This year we will benefit from those improvements, as we apply our continuous improvement model to identify efficiencies for the snow and ice programs.”

Last winter, the City piloted an anti-icing technique called pre-wetting. A sanding truck was modified to spray a magnesium-chloride brine to the salt/sand blend as it was applied to the road surface. The benefits are two-fold: the sand adheres better to the roadway and ice to improve traction, and activates the salt at lower temperatures to melt any ice that has formed. Due to its effectiveness, this program will be expanded from one to four sanders this year.

Also new this year, sanders will be outfitted with GPS software that can track the location of vehicles, sanding activities and the amount of product used in real-time. This data can then be used to create more efficient routes and processes that use less sand and fuel and achieve equivalent or improved results.

“During and immediately after a snow event, plowing and grading will occur on priority streets to keep the high-traffic streets in good driving condition,” says Hyde. “Later in the season, when the overall average snowpack on residential streets reaches a minimum of 15 centimetres, streets may be graded to reduce the potential for ruts forming. Snow grading and removal may occur as required along narrow, congested streets with no space for snow storage.”

ENTER TO WIN!

While City Crews wait for the first snow event of the season, residents are invited to enter our Winter is Coming contest to predict when that day might be. Guess the date of our first snow event (5+ cm of snow) and you could win a $100 City of Saskatoon Leisure Gift Card. Enter at saskatoon.ca/snow.

Snow What to Do this winter by visiting saskatoon.ca/snow. Find real time Snow & Ice and Traffic Detour alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts or follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

NEW

33RD ST E EB & WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM IDYLWYLD DR N TO QUEBEC AVE
(Sanitary sewer lining)
Start: November 5, 9:00 a.m. End: November 5, 1:30 p.m.

HWY 11 SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) & NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM VICTOR RD TO CIRCLE DR
(Road construction)
Start: November 5, 9:00 a.m. End: November 7, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD FWY NB ONRAMP FROM 8TH ST & LORNE AVENUE CLOSED
(Valve installation)
Use Taylor Street or Broadway Ave. More details saskatoon.ca/LorneSewerRehab
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 5, 6:00 p.m.

CLAYPOOL DR WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM AIRPORT DR TO MCCLOCKIN RD
(Road construction/landscaping)
Start: November 2, 3:00 p.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HIGHWAY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS FROM 51ST ST E TO MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Hwy 11/12 SB curb lane closed at overpass
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 10, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Response has been tremendous and the City has sold all of the single-headed aged parking meters. Suitable for use as a decoration, or to keep as a piece of memorabilia, double-headed parking meters are still available for $30.

With the implementation of the new pay-by-plate parking system throughout the city, the aged parking meters have been offered for sale to the public.

Call 306-975-2608 or 306-975-7774 for more information.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

In partnership with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission, as part of an ongoing effort to increase accessibility and provide riders with improved service, Saskatoon Transit is pleased to announce Automatic Announcements on City buses. This automated service provides a verbal announcement and visual cue of an upcoming bus stop, ensuring that riders do not miss their destination.

“Transit needs to be accessible to all,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “Working with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission has helped us to identify ways to increase accessibility for riders. Automated Announcements benefit visually impaired riders, new residents who don’t know the city yet, students venturing out on their own for the first time, senior citizens who require assistance, or day-to-day riders who want another way to be notified of their stop.”

Currently, the system is active on over 95 per cent of the buses on regular routes, encompassing over 1,500 stops and landmarks throughout the City. A planned future enhancement to the Automated Announcements service is the addition of adjoining connections, which will make it even easier for new and experienced Saskatoon Transit riders to reach their destinations.

“Saskatoon Transit has demonstrated a significant commitment to providing accessible transit services to the citizens of Saskatoon with the addition of an Automated Announcement system,” said David Arnot, Chief Commissioner of the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission. “The Commission was pleased to collaborate with Saskatoon Transit on this project, and we remain ready to provide proactive assistance to them as they work to improve the overall accessibility of bus services.”

Additional accessibility features on all new buses include:

• A front kneeling system that allows the bus to lower to curb height for devices such as baby strollers;
• An extendable flip-up ramp to ease boarding of wheelchairs and walkers;
• Extra wide entrance areas that make it easier to navigate into and out of the bus;
• A mobility area with flip-up seats and floor anchors to secure mobility devices;
• A light and colour scheme designed to assist visually impaired riders; and
• Digital signage that displays stop locations and stop requests to ensure hearing impaired riders are aware of important destinations.

“Accessibility is essential to our customers’ satisfaction,” says McDonald. “As well, we remain committed to working with community groups and our stakeholders to make sure we will continue to provide the citizens of Saskatoon with the transit service that meets their needs.”

For more information about Saskatoon Transit, visit transit.saskatoon.ca or follow @StoonTransit on Twitter. You can also plan your route in advance using any of the following tools: Saskatoon Transit Trip Planner, Google Transit Trip Planner, or the Transit App on your mobile device.

The following are the hours of civic services and facilities for Remembrance Day on Wednesday, November 11, 2015:

City Hall will be closed.

Pay Parking Stations will not require payment.  Motorists are required to move their vehicles within the time period shown on parking meters, allowing for a constant turnover of parking availability.

Municipal Impound Lot will not be releasing vehicles to the public.

Saskatoon Landfill will be open with regular winter hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Garbage and Recycling collection will take place as scheduled.

All Saskatoon Public Library locations will be closed.

The Saskatoon Civic Conservatory will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  Admission is free.

TRANSIT SERVICES

Saskatoon Transit will operate with regular Sunday/Holiday Service.

Access Transit will operate with regular Holiday Service from 8:15 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.  Trips must be booked in advance as per normal procedures.  Customers are reminded that subscriptions do not apply on Statutory Holidays.

Transit Customer Service Center will be closed.

Transit Customer Service phone lines will be available from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

RECREATION & SPORT

Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo
Regular hours of operation (Zoo: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. & Park: 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
Admission by donation

Indoor Arenas
Regular hours of operation

Cosmo Civic Centre
CLOSED

Fitness Circuit & Terry Fox Track (in the SaskTel Sports Centre)
CLOSED

Lakewood Civic Centre
Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED

Lawson Civic Centre
Open 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
All fitness classes CANCELLED

Saskatoon Field House
Open 12:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED
Holiday Zumba Class:  12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Shaw Centre
Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED

Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre
Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
All fitness classes CANCELLED

For modified Lane, Public and Parent & Tot Swim times, please visit Drop-in Online at www.saskatoon.ca/dropinonline.  For more information on operating hours and programs, please contact the leisure centres or facilities.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

The City’s two compost depots will be closing for the season on Friday, November 6. Residents still have time to bring their unbagged Halloween pumpkins, leaves, grass and non-elm branches to one of the sites until the end of the week. The sites will remain closed throughout the winter season until opening in spring of 2016.

West – Highway 7 Depot, located at the junction of Highway 7 and 11th Street West. Open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
East – Highway 5 Depot, located off Highway 5 by the junction of Highway 41 and Zimmerman Road. Open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Please note that vehicles will not be admitted into the East depot after 4:45 p.m. or the West depot after 5:45 p.m.

More than 43,000 loads of yard waste were hauled to the compost depots from April 13 to October 29 this year. The City wishes to thank residents for using the free compost depots. Thanks to your efforts, we have been able to divert a considerable amount of materials from our landfill.

The compost depots will re-open in April, 2016. For more information, including the types of material accepted, visit saskatoon.ca/compost.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

NEW

UPDATE: IDYLWYLD FWY NB ONRAMP FROM 8TH ST & LORNE AVENUE CLOSED
(Valve installation)
Use Taylor Street or Broadway Ave. More details saskatoon.ca/LorneSewerRehab
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 5, 6:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB/NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM SAUNDERS PL TO 19TH ST E
(Expansion joint repairs)
Start: November 4, 9:00 a.m. End: November 13, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

CLAYPOOL DR WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM AIRPORT DR TO MCCLOCKIN RD
(Road construction/landscaping)
Start: November 2, 3:00 p.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HIGHWAY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS FROM 51ST ST E TO MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Hwy 11/12 SB median lane closed at overpass
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 8, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Beginning on Monday, November 9, the City of Saskatoon will be installing a new sanitary chamber and upgrading sewer and water mains at the intersection of Lorne Avenue and 8th Street. The work is expected to last approximately 4 weeks, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

“This work is necessary as it will improve the flow of waste water, lower sewer gas emissions, and reduce damage to the infrastructure,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction and Design. “Waste water was temporarily diverted away from the intersection in January this year and must be diverted back before the winter as the diversion could result in infrastructure failure through the colder months.”

The work will result in area traffic restrictions, but the City is working to minimize the impacts to drivers as much as possible with a detailed traffic detour plan as well as ensuring some traffic flow through the busy intersection. The project was also timed around other major construction projects like the University Bridge rehabilitation. For the comfort of nearby residents, crews will work in accordance with the Noise Bylaw.

Some preliminary work is being carried out this week (Nov. 2-6) which will require the closure of the Idylwyld Drive northbound on-ramp on Wednesday, November 4 and Thursday, November 5.

Then beginning on Monday, November 9, the intersection of Lorne Avenue and 8th Street will be closed, except for the following:

• One lane from 8th Street East westbound to Idylwyld Drive northbound will be maintained.
• One lane from Idylwyld Drive southbound to 8th Street West westbound will be maintained.

“We encourage drivers to reroute their commute and use Taylor Street to access the Idylwyld Freeway or to use the Broadway Bridge to get Downtown,” says Anger. “We thank drivers for their patience while this work is carried out.”

For more information visit saskatoon.ca/LorneSewerRehab.

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert.

PSA
For Immediate Release:  November 3, 2015

CY15-203
“REFUGEES WELCOME” INFORMATION AND AWARENESS FORUM TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2015

The City, in partnership with the Saskatoon Refugee Coalition, invites the public to an information and awareness forum entitled, Refugees Welcome:  From Compassion to Action, on Tuesday, November 10, 2015, at the Roxy Theatre.

The forum will include a panel that will be presenting on the refugee crisis from a global, regional, and local perspective.  Community members will share information about specific organizations and the work that is already being done.  Attendees will learn about the various opportunities available and how to get involved.

REFUGEES WELCOME:  INFORMATION AND AWARENESS FORUM
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.)
Roxy Theatre, 320 20th Street West

For more information on the forum, please call 306-975-8459, or email immigration@saskatoon.ca.
For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca or connect with the City of Saskatoon on Twitter and Facebook.

- 30 -

Media, for more information, please contact:
Lynne Lacroix
Director of Recreation and Community Development
City of Saskatoon
306-975-3390

Erin Wolfson
Member
Saskatoon Refugee Coalition
(306) 716-4004

Note to the Media:  Lynne Lacroix, Erin Wolfson, and other community stakeholders will be in attendance for media intervie

NEW

BROADWAY AVE SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MAIN ST TO 9TH ST E AND FROM 12TH ST E TO 11TH ST E
(Geological survey)
Start: November 3, 9:00 a.m. End: November 3, 10:00 a.m.

33RD ST E EB & WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM EDWARD AVE TO SPADINA CRES E
(Sanitary sewer lining)
Start: November 3, 9:00 a.m. End: November 3, 9:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MAIN ST TO 12TH ST E
(Geological survey)
Start: November 3, 10:00 a.m. End: November 3, 11:00 a.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 9TH ST E
(Geological investigation)
Start: November 3, 11:00 a.m. End: November 3, 12:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MAIN ST TO 10TH ST E
(Geological investigation)
Start: November 3, 12:00 p.m. End: November 3, 1:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE FROM 10TH ST E TO 11TH ST E
(Geological investigation)
Start: November 3, 1:00 p.m. End: November 3, 2:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 12TH ST E TO SASKATCHEWAN CRES E
(Geological investigation)
Start: November 3, 2:00 p.m. End: November 3, 3:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 6TH ST E TO 7TH ST E
(Geological survey)
Start: November 3, 3:00 p.m. End: November 3, 4:00 p.m.

ONGOING

8TH ST E WB CURB (OUTSIDE) & MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT LORNE AVE
(Valve installation)
Access to Idylwyld Fwy maintained. More details saskatoon.ca/LorneSewerRehab
Start: November 2, 9:00 a.m. End: November 3, 6:00 p.m.

AIRPORT DR NB/SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT CLAYPOOL DR
(Road construction)
Claypool Dr WB closed from Airport Dr to McClocklin Rd
Start: September 15, 7:00 a.m. End: November 6, 6:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N/HIGHWAY 16 NB & SB LANE RESTRICTIONS FROM 51ST ST E TO MARQUIS DR W
(Hwy 16 flyover repair)
Hwy 11/12 SB median lane closed at overpass
Start: July 13, 9:00 a.m. End: November 8, 5:00 p.m.

HWY 16 WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT ZIMMERMAN RD
(Road reconstruction)
Start: September 16, 7:00 a.m. End: November 15, 5:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK: IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 1ST AVE
(Bridge maintenance)
Start: October 13, 7:00 p.m. End: November 23, 7:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 19TH ST & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE
(Bridge maintenance)
1st Ave SB curb lane closed between 19th St & Sid Buckwold Bridge
Start: September 14, 7:00 a.m. End: November 23, 6:00 p.m.

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

Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

Know before you go! Plan your route around road work by checking our Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map. Find traffic detour information and subscribe to Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/service-alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.