News Releases

NEW

CIRCLE DR E NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM HIGHWAY 11 TO TAYLOR ST E
(Underground directional boring)
Start: January 30, 9:30 a.m. End: January 30, 3:30 p.m.

PRESTON AVE NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM LOUISE ST TO ADELAIDE ST
(Underground directional boring)
Start: January 30, 9:30 a.m. End: January 30, 4:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

After the unseasonably warm temperatures of the last few weeks, the Saskatoon Fire Department decided to proactively test the ice thickness on city ponds to make sure that they are still more than 40cm (16 inches thick). Testing done on Tuesday, January 27, 2015, confirmed that the ice continues to be a safe thickness.

Ponds tested include Dundonald, RCAF, “Rat Hole”, Lakeview, the pond at Circle Drive and Clarence Ave., Stonebridge, Trounce, Briarwood, John Avant and Erindale.

The City of Saskatoon believes that an ice thickness of 40cm provides a reasonable level of security to residents wishing to use the ponds for recreational activities.

NEW

8TH ST WB LEFT TURN LANE TO LORNE AVE CLOSED
(Manhole inspection)
Lorne Ave NB median lane closed & SB left turn lanes approaching 8th St closed
Start: January 29, 2:00 a.m. End: January 29, 5:00 a.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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

International bond rating agency Standard and Poor’s (S&P) has again awarded the City of Saskatoon (City) its top rating of AAA/Stable.

“Standard and Poor’s has time and again approved of the way we plan City business,” says His Worship Mayor Donald Atchison. “At a time when many are focusing on government finances, S&P has had a look two years down the road and is confident Saskatoon will continue benefitting from a very strong economy.”

Every year S&P reviews the City’s finances and delivers a rating in a report based on that study.

“This is excellent news,” says Chief Financial Officer Kerry Tarasoff. “The triple-A rating continues to provide Saskatoon with the financial certainty we need as we grow forward toward half a million people.” 

“Saskatoon demonstrates strong financial management,” the agency notes.  As S&P continues to view the financial outlook for Saskatoon as stable, it further outlines part of this strength is grounded in a diverse local economy which is not tied as strongly to the resource sector.

The agency also points to the City’s transparency, audited financial statements, “good” budget documents and financing plans as other reasons to award the rating.

The City has received the AAA/stable credit rating every year for more than a decade.

Receiving the AAA credit rating essentially means that the City can borrow money at lower rates, and is viewed by financial institutions as having virtually no-risk with respect to defaulting on credit.

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.

ONGOING
4TH AVE N SB LANES CLOSED FROM QUEEN ST TO 26TH ST E
(Crane Lift)
Queen St 2-way traffic from 4th Ave to 5th Ave
Start: January 27, 9:00 a.m. End: January 28, 3:00 p.m.
25TH ST E WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM PACIFIC AVE TO IDYLWYLD DR N
(Directional Drilling)
Start: January 27, 9:00 a.m. End: January 28, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For January 26, 2015

8.4.1 Civic Operations Centre – Procurement Complete

City Council will be asked to receive the information.

Additional Information:

• The procurement for the Civic Operations Centre Project, Phase One, is complete.
• The procurement was highly competitive and as a result, the Project is $24.9M under budget.
• Monthly payments are linked to performance.
• Schedule and Milestone risks are owned by Integrated Team Solutions.
• The procurement process was conducted in a fair manner.

8.7.2 – Inquiry – Councillor C. Clark – Decorative Street Lighting

City Council will be asked to:

• Proceed with Option 2 as outlined in the report of the General Manager, Transportation & Utilities Department dated January 12, 2015.
• Request the administration explore options for decorative lighting and financial implications, in consultation with the Business Improvement Districts, and report back to committee.

 Additional Information:

• Feedback from the Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) indicates general support for extending the decorative street lighting program to a “Winter-based” schedule.
• Further discussions will occur with the BIDs, through the Urban Design Committee, to explore financial partnership for a “Winter-based” lighting schedule, as well as the potential for creating new opportunities for additional year-round decorative lighting.
• Extending the schedule for decorative street lighting may have an impact on the banner program at some locations.

Option 2:

• In addition to the 3rd Avenue snowflake decorations, the snowflakes along the Broadway Bridge and down Broadway Avenue could also be considered for this winter. The energy cost for these lights is estimated to be $25. These decorations are different from the 3rd Avenue ones and are more susceptible to damage by wind. Leaving them in-place longer will reduce their anticipated life span and may result in additional maintenance and repair costs. The total estimated cost for both the 3^rd Avenue and Broadway decorations is approximately $200 annually.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

4.1.4 Proposed Kensington Neighbourhood Concept Plan Amendment

Council will be asked to:

• Approve the proposed Kensington Neighbourhood Concept Plan amendment.

Additional Information:

• An amendment to the Kensington Neighbourhood Concept Plan (Concept Plan) is proposed to reclassify lands from single-family detached to townhouse-style residential.
• A rezoning to RMTN – Townhouse Residential District is proposed.
• The increased density and form of development proposed is considered compatible with the location and adjacent land uses.

4.1.9 Propose Rezoning from B1 to M3 – 840 Idylwyld Drive North

City Council will be asked to:

• Consider Bylaw 9255

Additional Information:  

• A comprehensive redevelopment of 840 Idylwyld Drive North is proposed.
• Amendments to the OCP – Land Use Map and Zoning Bylaw are required.
• This proposal supports the goals of the North Downtown Master Plan (NDMP) and the Growth Plan to Half a Million.

4.1.10 Proposed Rezoning by Agreement RM3 – 530 to 538 Avenue F

City Council will be asked to:

• Consider Bylaw No. 9236; and
• Consider a recommendation of the Municipal Planning Commission requesting the Administration to review on-street parking in the Riversdale Neighbourhood area including a proposal from Shift Developments to increase on- street parking on Avenue F South.

Additional Information:

• In 2009, City Council approved a rezoning of these properties, subject to a Zoning Agreement, to permit construction of a 23-unit multiple-unit dwelling.
• Shift Development Inc. has submitted a revised development proposal for a dwelling group consisting of 21 units.
• The revised proposal is considered to be more compatible with the established character of the Riversdale neighbourhood.
• The existing Zoning Agreement is required to be repealed, and a new agreement put in place in order to facilitate construction of the revised proposal.

NEW
4TH AVE N SB LANES CLOSED FROM QUEEN ST TO 26TH ST E
(Crane Lift)
Queen St 2-way traffic from 4th Ave to 5th Ave.
Start: January 27, 9:00 a.m. End: January 28, 3:00 p.m.
HWY 16 WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING BOYCHUK DR
(Light Repair)
Start: January 27, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 3:00 p.m.
25TH ST E WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM PACIFIC AVE TO IDYLWYLD DR N
(Directional Drilling)
Start: January 27, 9:00 a.m. End: January 28, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING
24TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 3RD AVE N
(Cable maintenance)
Start: January 21, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

ONGOING
24TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 3RD AVE N
(Cable maintenance)
Start: January 21, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW SATURDAY
1ST AVE NB CENTER & CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING 22ND ST
(Crane Lift)
Start: January 24, 7:00 a.m. End: January 24, 1:00 p.m.

NEW SUNDAY

ADELAIDE ST ON RAMP TO IDYLWYLD DR NB CLOSED
(Light pole repairs)
Start: January 25, 9:00 a.m. End: January 24, 11:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB ON RAMP CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE TO 8TH ST CLOSED
(Street light repair)
Start: January 25, 10:30 a.m. End: January 25, 12:30 p.m.
ONGOING
24TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED 3RD AVE N
(Cable maintenance)
Start: January 21, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

City crews are responding to slushy road conditions and patching potholes as unseasonably mild temperatures cause snow to melt quickly.

Priority streets are in good winter driving condition and crews continue to work 24/7 salting and sanding as required. Crews are concentrating on repairing potholes with cold mix asphalt on Priority 1 and 2 streets. So far this winter, approximately 10 tons of cold mix asphalt has been used to repair potholes.

With the warmer weather, snowpack on residential streets is becoming soft and turning to slush. While some ruts will develop, the current snowpack is not deep enough to cause severe rutting. Crews will monitor residential streets, investigate any reports of trouble areas, and maintain them as required.

Environment Canada is forecasting the mild temperatures to continue for at least the next week so there is less concern about the slush turning hard ice due to the expected continued melt.  Residents are reminded that sidewalk conditions can be slippery due to standing water that is subject to the freeze/thaw cycle from night time temperatures.

As required, crews are clearing and opening catch basins to deal with the melt. The snow piled into windrows will allow the snow to melt slowly, reducing the risk of flooding.

Drivers are encouraged to be cautious and drive appropriately for the conditions. Use extra caution when approaching snow maintenance equipment such as sanders and graders; and avoid passing. Beware of reduced visibility. Clearing wet, slushy roads and shoulders can throw moisture onto your windshield leading to sudden loss of visibility. Always drive defensively and leave enough space to minimize snow spray.

Residents are encouraged to report potholes and impassable or hazardous streets by calling Public Works Customer Service at 306-975-2476.

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

HWY 16 WB MEDIAN LANE CLOSED BETWEEN BOYCHUK DR & CIRCLE DR
(Light repairs)
Start: January 23, 9:00 a.m. End: January 23, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

24TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 3RD AVE N
(Cable maintenance)
Start: January 21, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon has awarded the contract for the new Civic Operations Centre (COC) to Integrated Team Solutions (ITS), establishing the City’s first Public-Private Partnership (P3).

“The procurement process was highly competitive and the savings were even greater than we anticipated,” says Jeff Jorgenson, General Manager of Transportation & Utilities. “The City budgeted $185 million for capital and maintenance/operating costs over 25 years; the submission from ITS came in $25 million under budget at $160 million. In addition, the Federal Government will also contribute approximately $38.5 million to the project through the P3 Canada Fund.”

The COC will be developed in phases, co-locating the new Saskatoon Transit Operations Facility and the City’s first Snow Management Facility. The new site located in Saskatoon’s southwest quadrant, will provide direct access to Circle Drive South Bridge which will allow the City to move equipment, materials and vehicles more efficiently around the city.

The facility will have room to store 224 City buses with capacity for future fleet growth. Among the features will be administrative offices, fare collection, fueling, wash lanes, maintenance bays and inspections pits. Relocating Saskatoon Transit from Caswell Hill removes an industrial use from a residential neighbourhood. The Snow Management Facility will have the capacity to store up to 1 million cubic metres of snow and will feature a meltwater collection site where the environmental safety of meltwater can be monitored prior to release into the storm sewer system. The COC also allows for the addition of other civic departments and services in the future.

ITS, a consortium comprised of EllisDon Capital Inc., Fengate Capital, Kasian Architecture, EllisDon Corporation and Cofely Services Inc., will design, build, finance and maintain both facilities at the COC for 25 years. At all times, the City retains full ownership of both facilities and will continue to operate day-to-day activities.

“ITS is excited to be partnering with the City of Saskatoon to design, build, finance, operate and maintain the new Civic Operations Centre,” said Danny Giacomel, ITS representative.  We are committed to delivering the Transit Operations Facility and the Snow Management Facility on time and on budget and then providing seamless operations and maintenance of these first class facilities for the 25 year contract term.”

Mayor Donald Atchison commented, “I want to thank Prime Minister Harper and the Federal Government for their commitment to our strong and diverse economy; this operations centre will ensure civic services keep pace with our prospering city over the next 25 years.” Mayor Atchison continued, “The facility will create jobs and contribute to the continued rejuvenation of the Caswell Hill neighbourhood.”

Value for Money calculations show the P3 model is expected to achieve value for taxpayer dollars equivalent to $92.3 million when compared to the traditional “Design-Bid-Build” approach typically used by the City.

“Another benefit of the P3 is that the agreement between the City and ITS is a fixed price contract so the project will not go over budget; the responsibility of any cost overruns rests with ITS,” says Jorgenson. “ITS is also responsible and accountable for ensuring the facilities are maintained and rehabilitated over the life of the agreement, otherwise the City’s annual payments will be reduced or withheld. The risk rests with ITS and not the City.”

Construction is expected to start in Spring 2015 and is due to be completed by late 2016 with Saskatoon Transit moving in, and the Snow Management Facility operational by January 2017.

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.

ONGOING
24TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED AT 3RD AVE N
(Cable maintenance)
Start: January 21, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW
33RD ST W EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE E N TO AVE D N
(Steel Beam Delivery)
Start: January 21, 6:00 a.m. End: January 21, 7:00 a.m.
24TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED AT 3RD AVE N
(Cable maintenance)
Start: January 21, 9:00 a.m. End: January 27, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW
5TH AVE N CLOSED FROM 25TH ST TO 26TH ST
(Sewer Connection Repair)
Start: January 20, 7:30 a.m. End: January 20, 5:30 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW
5TH AVE N CLOSED FROM 25TH ST TO 26TH ST
(Sewer Connection Repair)
Start: January 19, 9:00 a.m. End: January 19, 3:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The Saskatoon Fire Department has tested the ice on City ponds and confirms that the ice thickness on each of them is more than 40cm (16 inches).

Starting in December, the Saskatoon Fire Department tests the ice once a week using standard ice augers and appropriate safety precautions.

The ponds that have been tested and confirmed to have an ice thickness of more than 40cm are Dundonald, RCAF, “Rat Hole”, Lakeview, the pond at Circle Drive and Clarence Ave., Stonebridge, Trounce, Briarwood, John Avant and Erindale.

The City of Saskatoon believes that an ice thickness of 40cm provides a reasonable level of security to residents wishing to use the ponds for recreational activities.

NEW SUNDAY
ATTRIDGE DR EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN REVER RD & FORESTRY FARM PARK RD
(Light pole maintenance)
Start: January 18, 7:30 a.m. End: January 18, 9:00 a.m.

SPADINA CRES WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 25TH ST & 24TH ST
(Street light repair)
Start: January 18, 7:30 a.m. End: January 18, 9:00 a.m.

CIRCLE DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN TAYLOR ST & 8TH ST
(Light pole maintenance)
Start: January 18, 7:30 a.m. End: January 18, 10:00 a.m.

CIRCLE DR WB OFF-RAMP CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE TO WARMAN RD CLOSED
(Light pole maintenance)
Start: January 18, 9:00 a.m. End: January 18, 10:30 a.m.

25TH ST EB & WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT SPADINA CRES
(Street light repair)
Start: January 18, 9:00 a.m. End: January 18, 10:30 a.m.

COLLEGE DR EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN CENTRAL AVE & MCKERCHER DR
(Light pole maintenance)
Start: January 18, 10:00 a.m. End: January 18, 11:30 a.m.

CIRCLE DR NB & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED BETWEEN 22ND ST & LAURIER DR
(Light pole maintenance)
Start: January 18, 10:30 a.m. End: January 18, 12:00 p.m.

WARMAN RD SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN HAZEN ST & CAVERS ST
(Street light repair)
Start: January 18, 10:30 a.m. End: January 18, 12:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Online Water Outage Service Alerts are now available 24/7 to notify residents affected by unplanned water service disruptions that require the water to be off for 8 hours or more. These alerts, similar to Power Outage Service Alerts, will now be available at Saskatoon.ca or by following @YXEServiceAlert on Twitter.

“Throughout the year, the City experiences an average of five water line breaks per week affecting up to 25 households at a time, so improving our communication during these inconvenient events will be beneficial for residents,” says Pat Hyde, Director of Public Works.  “A major contributing factor for the cause of these breaks is the extreme weather changes we experience here in Saskatoon. Fluctuating temperatures can cause the ground to expand and contract, shifting the pipes underground.”

Water Outage Service Alerts will be issued when the water is turned off, if there is a change to the scope of the outage, and again once water is restored. Since November 1, 2014 the City has experienced 42 water main breaks, compared to 77 over the same period last year. The 20 year average for the same period is 66.

It is the City’s goal to repair the water line and restore water within 24 – 48 hours.  Once the repair is completed and the water is turned back on, a Drinking Water Advisory (DWA) will be in place for the following 2 to 3 days. This notice advises that there is a risk of water contamination during the repair process, so occupants are advised to boil water before drinking. Residents are notified with a yellow door hanger when the DWA is issued and a green door hanger once the laboratory confirms the water is safe to drink and the advisory is lifted.  The period from when the water is turned off to when the DWA is lifted is typically 4-6 days.

 “The City provides a community emergency water supply trailer within the first eight hours of a water outage,” says Hyde. “The City has six trailers which are prioritized for distribution based on the order the breaks occur.”

This year, all residents affected by a water service outage are invited to use shower facilities at their nearest City Leisure Centre.  The service will be provided at no cost until your water service is restored. Residents can access the showers during the centre’s regular hours of operation and will need to provide proof of address, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, to gain entry to the facility. 

Be prepared.  Every home should be prepared for an unexpected water outage by having a supply of bottled drinking water.  It is recommended to have enough water for a 72-hour period, which amounts to 3.8 litres (one gallon) per person or pet per day.

For more information visit saskatoon.ca or call 306-975-2476 to report a water main break.

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
HWY 16 WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING CIRCLE DR OVERPASS
(Lamp bulb replacement)
Speed reduced to 60 km/h
Start: January 15, 9:00 a.m. End: January 15, 3:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon is taking precautions after trace amounts of loose asbestos containing material were discovered on the mechanical room floor at the Cosmo Civic Centre. The heating and cooling systems in the restricted access mechanical room had been under renovation starting in May 2014.

On December 18, the City's Asbestos Management Program Consultant notified the City about remnants of chrysotile, an asbestos containing material (ACM) on the mechanical room floor at Cosmo Civic Centre. The facility's pipes and fittings in the mechanical room had been insulated with ACM.

“It is the expectation that if asbestos is present at a worksite, that it should be reported and removed or shielded appropriately as the work proceeds.  It appears this didn’t happen at Cosmo Civic Centre.  We take this seriously and are continuing our investigation” says Kerry Tarasoff, General Manager for Asset & Financial Management.  “In the meantime, our priority is the health and well-being of any employee, contract worker or visitor who has questions or concerns.”

In keeping with standard protocol, the City has filed a Dangerous Occurrence Report with the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety detailing the events surrounding the detection of Asbestos and air quality testing results.

“As soon as this safety issue came to light, we acted decisively and immediately,” Tarasoff says.  “We take the health and wellness of our employees, contractors and the public seriously.  Once it was detected at the worksite, we took immediate steps to protect workers and patrons from any further potential exposure risk.”

The facility’s mechanical room was immediately sealed and labeled to prevent access.

Employees and contractors who may have come into some level of contact with the material were immediately informed and invited to contact the City with any questions and concerns.

Independent air quality testing was conducted in the mechanical room and entire facility, with testing results returned to the City the same day.

Air quality testing results came back “all clear and all clean” for the immediate area and Cosmo Civic Centre.  The safety standard for exposure to Asbestos is 0.01 fibres/cubic centimetre.  The air quality testing for Cosmo Civic Centre and its mechanical room came back at .0002 fibres/cubic centimeter or 200 times safer than the permissible level.

A certified Asbestos contractor was hired to clean the immediate area and safely dispose of any material.

The City has met with employees who may have accessed the mechanical room during the renovation, offering personal support and health information.  City Human Resources is completing and filing Workers Compensation Claims for each employee.

To avoid such incidents in the future, the City is accelerating the Asbestos Management Program.  The program reviews civic facilities and identifies those that may contain ACM.  To date, 49 of 55 buildings have been reviewed.  In August 2013, the City voluntary added the list of all the buildings to the Provincial Asbestos Registry.

Hazard signage will be immediately installed in the service areas of the six remaining buildings and formal inspections are scheduled to follow.

City of Saskatoon facilities, including Cosmo Civic Centre, are safe and open to the public.

If visitors of Cosmo Civic Centre have questions or concerns please contact Occupational Health & Safety at the City of Saskatoon by calling 306-975-3261.  More information on the health risks of asbestos can be found at http://healthycanadians.gc.ca/healthy-living-vie-saine/environment-environnement/outdoor-air-exterieur/asbestos-amiante-eng.php.

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

CIRCLE DR EB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM PRESTON AVE TO HWY 11
(Lamp bulb replacement)
Start: January 14, 9:00 a.m. End: January 14, 3:00 p.m.

CONFEDERATION DR NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 22ND ST INTERSECTION
(Guardrail repair)
Confederation Dr SB left turn lane approaching 22nd St closed
Start: January 14, 10:00 a.m. End: January 14, 12:00 p.m.

8TH ST E WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM EASTLAKE AVE TO VICTORIA AVE
(Concrete pour)
Start: January 14, 1:00 p.m. End: January 14, 4:30 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW
CIRCLE DR S EB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM CLARENCE AVE TO PRESTON AVE
(Bulb replacement)
Start: January 13, 9:00 a.m. End: January 13, 3:00 p.m.
TAYLOR ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED ON CIRCLE DR E OVERPASS
(Crash cushion repair)
Access to Circle Dr. northbound maintained.
Start: January 13, 9:00 a.m. End: January 13, 2:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The necessary rehabilitation of Saskatoon’s iconic University Bridge is planned for the 2015 construction season. The project is currently out for tender with a closing deadline of January, 28, 2015, at which time the City should be in a position to award the contract for the project.

“The rehabilitation of the near 100 year old bridge is great news for our growing city and will ensure the structure will continue to serve commuters for many years to come,” says Mike Gutek, Director of Major Projects. “Maintaining City infrastructure and bridges is important to Saskatoon.”

An independent engineering assessment of the bridge in 2013 identified the deck is structurally insufficient and the concrete is susceptible to rapid failure and loss of strength due to freeze-thaw action. While there is no risk of danger, the assessment concluded that immediate repairs are required.

“Deferring the project until the Traffic Bridge and North Commuter Parkway Projects are complete in late 2018 would result in further deterioration and could affect bridge use,” Gutek says. “Also, construction costs could increase by as much as an estimated 30 per cent due to further deterioration over the next three years.”

The City is tendering the project for construction during the 2015 season and the deck work that will impact traffic is expected to occur between May 1 and August 30, 2015. The City will be able to provide more detailed construction timeframes once the tender closes at the end of this month.

The project tender suggests a single lane of eastbound traffic exiting Downtown remain open Monday to Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and for a single walkway to remain open at all times during construction. The contractor will be permitted to perform work 24 hours a day to ensure the project is delivered in the most efficient and effective manner with the least disruption to drivers possible.

“Until the tender is closed, and detailed traffic analysis is carried out, the details on exactly how the construction project will change traffic flow are subject to adjustment,” Gutek says.

“To that end, we’re deeply aware this work will have a significant impact on traffic flow in our City, but the repairs are necessary for the safety and longevity of this important piece of infrastructure,” Gutek says. “During construction we will encourage drivers to use alternate routes to avoid traffic congestion and delays. The opening of the Circle Drive South Bridge has increased river crossing capacity, and the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge and Broadway Bridge are also options for travel to and from Downtown.”

The University Bridge was constructed in 1916, a new concrete deck was built in 1972 and, in 1985, the waterproof membrane and asphalt surface were replaced. During a rehabilitation project in 1998/1999 the sidewalks on both sides as well as the spandrel walls between the deck and the main arches were replaced.

A comprehensive and proactive plan is already in use to work with all stakeholders and those impacted by the project to minimize disruption. The project will be discussed at the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation on Monday, January 12, 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.

NEW
CIRCLE DR S EB MEDIAN LANE CLOSED FROM CLARENCE AVE S TO PRESTON AVE S
(Lamp bulb replacements)
Start: January 12, 9:00 a.m. End: January 12, 3:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Starting Wednesday, January 7, 2015, crews will begin pruning trees on civic property in East College Park as part of the City of Saskatoon’s (City) overall boulevard tree maintenance program.  Haultain will follow on Monday, January 12, 2015, and Forest Grove after College Park is complete.

The boulevard tree maintenance program follows a regular pruning cycle to help preserve the health and appearance of the City’s boulevard and park tree inventory. Maintenance crews will remove any broken, dead, weak, and diseased branches. Keeping sidewalks and roads free of any hazards, crews will also remove any tree parts that are obstructing pedestrian or vehicle traffic and maintain appropriate clearances from buildings, signs, streetlights, and utility wires.  Tree maintenance operations in these three neighbourhoods will continue until Tuesday, March 31, 2015

Tree maintenance often requires road restrictions.  The City reminds pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers to ensure that safety is a priority by respecting the work zone appropriately and obeying all road restrictions and signage.

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
BROADWAY AVE NB LANES CLOSED BETWEEN 12TH ST E & SASKATCHEWAN CRES
(Water main repair)
Use Clarence Ave. Broadway Ave SB turning lane to 12th St E EB closed.
Start: January 6, 9:00 a.m. End: January 6, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Environment Canada is forecasting -28 C and colder over the weekend and the City would like to caution drivers of the affect these cold temperatures can have on driving conditions.

Roadway crews are out now and will continue to keep high speed roads clear throughout the snowfall, sanding and salting as required.  Extreme cold can create icy conditions on sidewalks and roads, especially on bridges and overpasses.  In addition:

- The very cold road conditions combined with ice crystals in the air settle and cause roadways to be more slippery than usual winter driving conditions.  Condensation, which drifts from vehicle exhaust when stopped or in rush hour traffic near intersections, may also contribute to more frost on the road.

- During very cold weather, on Circle Drive sand is applied more frequently as it does not stick to the roadway as well as it would under warmer temperatures.
- We are continuing the pilot project for the use of the magnesium chloride additive to sand as a de-icer and applying it to Circle Drive and the priority 1 streets as salt is ineffective for melting ice below -16 C.
- We take extra precautionary measures in extreme weather conditions: All bridge decks are checked and sanded every two hours.  Bridge decks are usually sanded just before rush hour because it’s very difficult to sand during peak times.

City Crews will be doing their best to keep roads sanded and salted, so please watch for equipment on the road.  The large machines used are equipped with flashing amber lights, move slowly in teams of two or more and can be found on the road at any time of day or night.  Drivers should stay a minimum of 15 metres back from the equipment and approach slowly if passing is necessary.   

When safe to do so, drivers can report icy locations to Public Works Customer Service at 306-975-2476.

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.

AF14 -115

Starting today, January 2, any required 2015 Assessment Notices will be mailed to property and business owners located in Saskatoon. The total value of the 2015 Property Assessment Roll is approximately $40 billion.

The Assessment Notice is not a tax bill. It lets owners know the assessed value of their property, which is then used to determine how much property tax must be paid.

Since 2013, property owners have been paying property tax each year based on the value of their property as of January, 2011. Province-wide revaluations take place in Saskatchewan once every four years. The next province-wide reassessment will take place in 2017.

An average single residential property in Saskatoon now has an assessment value of $325,000. “Our goal is to create and conduct property assessments that place fair, accurate, and equitable values on properties,” City Assessor Les Smith says. “Increases or decreases to the amount of property tax a resident owes due to the 2013 revaluation are phased-in over the four year assessment cycle – 2015 marks the third year of the phase-in process,” adds Smith.

The Customer Assessment Appeal Period runs January 2 until February 6, 2015.

As this is a non-revaluation year, property owners have 30 days to appeal their assessment. Customer Assessment Appeals can be made from January 2 until February 6, 2015 by completing the appeal form included with your assessment which can be mailed or delivered with the required fee to:

The Secretary, Board of Revision
c/o City Clerk's Office, City Hall
222 - 3rd Avenue North
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7K 0J5

If any information about a residential property or business premise needs to be changed or updated, or if customers wish to discuss their assessment further, they are encouraged to contact Assessment and Taxation at 306-975-3227 or visit the Assessment and Taxation Division in person at 4-325 Third Ave N, located one block north of City Hall.
The City of Saskatoon collects property taxes on behalf of the City, the Provincial Government for the Public and Separate School Boards, and the Saskatoon Public Library. Each taxing authority establishes its annual budget, and after taking into consideration other sources of revenue, determines the total revenue required through taxation.

Property Tax Notices will be delivered in May 2015, once education rates are determined as part of the provincial budget.

The City uses a valuation approach that ensures property values are a reflection of the fair market value on a given date.  Factors like location (neighbourhood) of the property, traffic patterns around the property, views, and the property structure are all used to determine an assessment value. Adjustments are also made for other factors including size, age, style, garage, etc.

Property owners can also find useful market and assessment information about their own property by using the Property Assessment & Tax Tool located under Online Services on the homepage of saskatoon.ca, or by clicking on ’A’ for Assessment for more detailed tax 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.

-30-

 

Saskatoon Transit and SGI have partnered to bring Saskatoon residents free bus and Access Transit service on New Year’s Eve. Enjoy yourself this New Year’s Eve, and don’t worry about driving because the ride’s on us!

The free bus service will run on Wednesday, December 31, from 8:00 p.m. to 2:45 a.m. (may vary slightly by route) on a weekday evening schedule.  To ensure everyone has a safe ride home, customers will be able to flag down their bus at any point along the route, not just at specified stops.  Please remember to be safe while flagging a bus, stand on the curb and raise your hand to get the operators attention.

For people heading to the New Year's festivities at Prairieland Park, Saskatoon Transit will be providing shuttle service from the Downtown Bus Terminal. We will be picking-up party goers in front of the south entrance of 2nd Avenue Lofts on 23rd Street. Please note departure times from this location only will be every 30 minutes starting at 8:00 p.m.

Route 14 - Will not be running to the North Industrial area after 7:00 p.m.

For more information about Ding in the New Year schedules call 306-975-3100 and speak to a Customer Service Representative (phones are available until 11:30 p.m.) Access Transit customers can call 306-975-3555 (normal booking procedures apply).

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.

 

For Immediate Release: Monday, December 29, 2014

City residents can drop off live Christmas trees for recycling at the following locations now until January 31, 2015:

• Primrose Drive Recycling Depot (adjacent to Lawson Civic Centre)
• Lowe Road Recycling Depot (Attridge Drive & Lowe Road)
• Wildwood Golf Course parking lot (8th Street East)
• George Ward Pool parking lot (1915 5th Street East)
• Doukhobor Cultural Society of Saskatoon parking lot (525 Ave I South at 17th Street)
• Meadowgreen Recycling Depot (Witney Avenue & 22nd Street)

Please remove all decorations, ornaments and plastic bags before you drop off your tree to be recycled. Trees should be dropped off unwrapped and unbound. Artificial trees, garbage, recyclables or other yard wastes will not be accepted.

The City reminds residents not to put discarded Christmas trees in either the black garbage carts or the blue recycle carts. The City will not pick up Christmas trees from back lanes or street fronts.

For more information about recycling and waste handling, visit SaskatoonRecycles.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.

Earlier this month, City Council approved an overall energy charge increase of three per cent. For the average residential customer, this will mean a monthly increase of $3.
This rate increase is effective January 1, 2015.
A few tips to reduce your electricity use:

1. Ensure your home is well insulated and properly sealed.
2. Ensure indoor humidity levels are between 30 and 50 per cent.
3. Install an automatic timer on your lights.

For more information, visit saskatoon.ca and look under ‘S’ for Saskatoon Light & Power.

The Multi-Unit Recycling Program run by Cosmo Industries, which was recently adopted by City Council, will continue to move ahead.  There were statements in the news and on social media that the Cosmo program was stopped indefinitely.

“Unfortunately, this information was inaccurate and has led to confusion in the community,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental and Corporate Initiatives. “To be clear, Cosmo Industries will continue to collect recyclables from apartment and condo blue bins.”

The provincial government announced last week that it was “adjusting” the province-wide Multi-Materials Recycling Program (MMRP), which may have funding implications for the City.

“The implications of the recent postponement of the MMRP are not yet known,” Wallace says.  “The Administration will bring options to City Council once a financial impact is confirmed.”

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 would like to extend a sincere thank you and best wishes to Marlys Bilanski, who is retiring this week after 35 years of service.

“To say that Marlys has left an indelible mark on the City would be an understatement.  Hers is a record of solid financial management and prudent fiscal policy,” says City Manager, Murray Totland.  “One of the reasons that Saskatoon has a AAA credit rating is because of the financial stewardship that Marlys has provided the corporation during her more than three decades of work.”

Marlys began her career with the City in 1979 and has worked in a variety of accounting positions, including Budget Manager and City Comptroller.  In 2005, Marlys became the General Manager of Corporate Services, later to become the General Manager of Asset & Financial Management and the City’s Chief Financial Officer.

In this role, Marlys has worked tirelessly behind the scenes ensuring the dollars were in place so all of the City’s biggest projects could move from an idea to a reality.

“Our Corporation’s strong financial health has been established through the hard work and keen insights of Marlys and her team.  Her wealth of knowledge has been a tremendous asset to the Corporation, and her professionalism, work ethic, and friendship will be missed,” says Totland.

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 celebrating the spirit of giving at this time of year, and recognizing the Snow Angels who go above and beyond to help fellow neighbours keep sidewalks clear of snow and ice throughout winter.

His Worship, Mayor Donald Atchison today thanked and presented a gift to Glenn Hussey, this month’s winner of the Snow Angel program’s prize draw. Mr. Hussey was nominated as a Snow Angel by his neighbours, Peggy and Bob Woods.

“Twice last month, Glenn appeared with his snow blower and cleared our drive and sidewalk after a heavy snowfall,” says Mr. Woods. “My wife and I were both times sitting after breakfast trying to raise the energy and determination to do the job ourselves; the sound of his snow blower was both music to our ears and a relief.”

A City bylaw requires residential sidewalks be clear of snow and ice within 48 hours after a snowfall.

“Clearing sidewalks quickly after a snowfall makes it easier and safer for people to move around, and a friendly gesture from a neighbour goes a long way in improving accessibility and mobility for everyone,” says Colleen McKee, Marketing and Communications Manager for Transportation & Utilities. “The City is responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to civic facilities, the Meewasin Trail and lit pathways in City parks but we rely on our citizens to help keep people moving around in residential neighbourhoods.”

If residents receive help from a neighbour or relative, they can nominate them as a Snow Angel online, or by mailing their name and address to; Public Works, City of Saskatoon, 222 – 3rd Avenue North, S7K 0J5. The City will send them a thank you card signed by His Worship, Mayor Donald Atchison and they’ll be entered into a draw to win a one-month family pass to any City leisure centre.

“Saskatoon is a city full of wonderful people who help each other out; the Snow Angel program embodies the spirit of being good neighbours, which is something we take pride in,” says His Worship, Mayor Donald Atchison. “Glenn is just one of hundreds of incredible citizens nominated as a Snow Angel each winter, lending a hand to make Saskatoon a great place to live.”

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-

Two neighbourhoods in Saskatoon will have their blue recycling carts collected on a different day of the week in 2015 – City Park and Exhibition. Changing the recycling routes for these two neighbourhoods will decrease the amount of fuel used by the Loraas Recycle collection trucks and reduce GHG emissions. The garbage collection day remains the same for all neighbourhoods in 2015.

City Park households will have their blue carts collected on Thursday (rather than Wednesday) starting January 8, 2015. The last blue cart collection in 2014 for City Park will be on Wednesday, December 31.

Exhibition households will have their blue carts collected on Thursday (rather than Tuesday) starting January 8, 2015. The last blue cart collection in 2014 for Exhibition will be on Tuesday, December 23.

The change to recycling cart collection day for these two neighbourhoods is reflected in the 2015 Waste and Recycling Calendar, which will arrive in mailboxes around December 24. It is also included on the online version of the 2015 collection calendar at www.SaskatoonRecycles.ca, where residents can also sign up for to receive handy collections reminders by phone or email.

Residents in all other neighbourhoods can expect 2015 cart collections to occur on the same days of the week as in 2014.

Loraas Recycle provides the blue cart recycling service and is available to answer your questions. Just call (306) 242-2300 or email customercare@loraas.ca

By recycling paper and packaging, and putting waste in the right place, together we can divert recyclables away from our Landfill and grow a greener Saskatoon.

       

The City of Saskatoon today introduced an expanded 2015 Waste and Recycling Calendar that features all three black, blue and the optional green cart schedules in one easy-to-follow format.

Every household will receive in the mail the new calendar outlining the garbage, recycling and yard waste cart collection days specific to their home address. It also provides useful information on how to use and place carts for pick-up, how to subscribe to the optional green cart program ($55 in 2015), as well as other waste recycling and disposal options around the city.

 “This year’s calendar makes it easy for everyone to participate in the City’s residential cart programs, including those who subscribe to our green cart service for yard waste,” said Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental & Corporate Initiatives for the City of Saskatoon. “The collection schedule for each cart program is now integrated into a single, 12-month calendar which will help citizens avoid the frustration of missed collection days.”

 A searchable, online version of the calendar is also available to help residents to avoid missed collections. Through SaskatoonRecycles.ca, citizens can search their cart schedules by their home address and also sign up for free collection day reminders by email or phone.

In 2015, garbage and recycling will be collected on the same day of the week as in 2014, except in the City Park and Exhibition neighbourhoods where the recycling collection day is changing to Thursdays starting January 8.

“We want to help everyone put waste in the right place and make the most of the City’s black, blue and the optional green cart programs,” said Wallace. “The more people who participate, the more we can reduce the amount and type of waste that goes into our Landfill, saving both money and our environment.”

The 2015 Waste and Recycling Calendar will arrive in your mailbox around December 24.

NEW

PRESTON AVE NB & SB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM COLLEGE DR TO 108TH ST
(Water main replacement)
Start: December 23, 9:00 a.m. End: December 23, 4:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR NB EXIT TO HIGHWAY 16 CLOSED
(Light pole Repair)
Use Marquis Dr to access Highway 16
Start: December 23, 9:00 p.m. End: December 23, 11:00 p.m.
ONGOING
QUEEN ST EB CLOSED FROM 4TH AVE N TO 5TH AVE N
(Crane Lift)
4th Ave SB closed between Queen St & 26th St
Start: December 22, 7:00 a.m. End: December 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The following fee changes* will take place in the New Year:

Landfill (effective January 1, 2015)
Entrance Fee:             $10.00 per visit (no change)
General Tipping:          $100.00 per tonne ($5.00 increase)

Leisure Centres (effective January 1, 2015)
Adult Admission:          $9.80 (50 cent increase)
Youth/Child Admission:    $5.90 (30 cent increase)
Family Admission:        $19.60 ($1.00 increase)
Preschool:               FREE (no change)

*Visit saskatoon.ca for full list of Leisure Centre and Golf Course fee changes

Residential Recycling Collection (effective January 1, 2015)Roll-out Cart – Single Family Residential: $5.05 per month (16 cent increase)
Saskatoon Light & Power (effective January 1, 2015)
3% average overall increase (matching SaskPower)

Storm Water Utility Fee (effective January 1, 2015)Saskatoon property owners are charged a storm water utility fee based on the amount of hard surface area they have on their property. These are areas that easily collect storm water like sidewalks, driveways and paved walks. The rate structure is based on a standard method used by many municipalities for storm water utility billing. The unit of measure is called an Equivalent Runoff Unit, or ERU, and for Saskatoon, is 265.3 square meters. Visit this page to see the 2015 phase in rate.

Water / Wastewater (effective January 1, 2015)
9.5% increase. A typical monthly residential bill for water, wastewater and infrastructure charges increases by $7.50 to $79.02. In 2013, City Council approved water and wastewater rates to increase the average bill by 9.5% in 2014, 2015 and 2016.

Business Licenses (effective February 1, 2015)
New Business License:          $125.00 ($30.00 increase)
Change of Business Location:   $125.00 ($30.00 increase)
Annual Renewal:               $85.00 ($15.00 increase)
*There are no Animal Services, Building Permit, Plumbing Permit or Saskatoon Transit fee increases for 2015. Proposed parking fee increases have not been finalized*

The City of Saskatoon has made changes to its snow route declaration plan in order to quickly and effectively grade priority streets in the event of an extreme snowfall. Should a snow route parking ban be declared, vehicles must be removed from streets marked with a permanent No Parking Snow Route sign so the City can grade snow from curb-to-curb.

“Instead of having every vehicle off of a snow route at the same time for a 48-hour period as per the previous process, this year we divided the snow routes into two phases: the Green Circle and Blue Square snow routes. Each phase can last up to 24 hours, minimizing the disruption to residents by reducing the amount of time the parking ban is in effect,” says Pat Hyde, Director of Public Works. “We don’t intend to declare a snow route parking ban unless it’s absolutely necessary but, as we all know, Mother Nature is unpredictable and we want to ensure we are ready for whatever winter brings.”

The Green Circle snow route parking ban will always be declared first; and as the end of that ban approaches, the Blue Square snow route parking ban will be declared. There are only two times of day the City can make a declaration; 7:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. Residents will be informed of the time the Snow Route parking ban will come into effect. A minimum of 8 hours notice will be given for residents to remove their vehicle from marked streets. If vehicles are not moved in time, they may be ticketed and relocated.

“It is the responsibility of residents to know if they live or park on a Snow Route. Snow Routes are marked with permanent No Parking Snow Route Signs with a metal plate indicating if it’s a Green Circle or Blue Square route,” says Hyde. “There is no defined trigger point for when a snow route parking ban will be declared; a combination of a number of things including snow accumulation, drifting, and temperature could all be factors.”

A new interactive Snow Grading Map shows the Green Circle and Blue Square snow routes and provides information if a Snow Route parking ban is declared. The map also shows progress of snow grading operations during and after a snow event with no parking ban and will provide schedules later this season should a city-wide neighbourhood grading be required if the average snow pack is 15cm or more.

Businesses and residents located on a Snow Route should watch for a flyer with more information about snow routes to be delivered early in January. Residents are also encouraged to pay attention to saskatoon.ca and local radio channels following a significant snowfall to find out if a Snow Route parking ban has been declared. Residents can also register to receive an e-Notification every time a snow route parking ban is declared, and when it is lifted. To register email your full name to snow.route@saskatoon.ca.

The City is Plowing Ahead and ready for whatever winter brings this year! For more information on Snow Routes and to find the new interactive Snow Grading Map, visit Saskatoon.ca and click on Better Winter Roads.

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 SUNDAY
IDYLWYLD DR SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 24TH STREET INTERSECTION
(Signal light work)
Start: December 21, 6:15 a.m. End: December 21, 8:15 a.m.

CENTRAL AVE NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING ATTRIDGE DR
(Light pole repair)
No right turn from College Dr NB to Attridge Dr EB
Start: December 21, 7:30 a.m. End: December 21, 9:00 a.m.

2ND AVE S SB LANES CLOSED FROM 22ND ST E TO 21ST ST E
(Crane Lift)
Start: December 21, 8:30 a.m. End: December 21, 10:30 a.m.

CIRCLE DR NB OFF RAMP TO COLLEGE DR CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED
(Light pole repair)
Start: December 21, 9:00 a.m. End: December 21, 11:30 a.m.
IDYLWYLD DR S SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 20TH ST W & RIVER
(Light pole repairs)
Start: December 21, 9:00 a.m. End: December 21, 3:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW
QUEEN ST EB CLOSED FROM 4TH AVE N TO 5TH AVE N
(Crane Lift)
4th Ave SB closed between Queen St & 26th St
Start: December 22, 7:00 a.m. End: December 23, 6:00 p.m.

5TH AVE N CLOSED BETWEEN PRINCESS ST & DUKE ST
(Water & sewer connection)
Start: December 22, 7:00 a.m. End: December 22, 4:00 p.m.

3RD AVE SB CLOSED FROM 26TH ST TO 25TH ST
(Hydro-vaccing)
Start: December 22, 9:00 a.m. End: December 22, 12:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Not sure if your used wrapping and packaging can be recycled? Here are some recycling tips for the holiday season to help keep household waste out of our landfill:

Gift and wrapping paper (except aluminum or shiny paper) can be recycled in your blue cart. There is no need to remove staples or tape.

Flatten boxes and packaging before tossing them into your blue cart and you’ll have more space for other recyclables.

Clean, metal cookie and chocolate containers are recyclable.

Give milk (and egg nog) containers a quick rinse, flatten them and they’ll be ready to recycle.

Have a look on the bottom of your plastic containers. If there’s a number between 1 and 7, rinse it and pop it into your recycling.

Unwanted electronics can be dropped off without charge at any SARCAN depot. Visit sarcan.ca for information. 

The following holiday items are not accepted in blue recycle carts or bins: shiny or foil wrapping paper, ribbon, plasticized gift bags, Styrofoam, toys, Christmas trees (real or artificial), Christmas lights, ornaments or decorations. Check Saskatoon.ca for drop-off locations for real Christmas Trees. Artificial trees should be taken to the Landfill for disposal.

Do you have too much recycling to fit in your blue cart?  The City’s recycling depots accept the same unsorted materials that go in your blue cart or bin: all paper, cardboard, plastics number 1 through 7, tin cans, milk jugs and cartons, legislated beverage containers, and glass. Visit Saskatoon.ca for recycling depot locations.   

Make sure your cart lid is fully closed and your cart is out by 7:00 am on collection day.

Reminder: There is no blue cart or black cart collection on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day so our operators can be with their loved ones for the holidays. If your normal recycling or garbage collection day falls on December 25 or on January 1, your cart will be emptied on the following Saturday (December 27 and January 3, respectively). Visit SaskatoonRecycles.ca to set up a handy reminder service for yourself for black cart and blue cart collections.

By recycling paper and packaging, and putting waste in the right place, together we can divert recyclables away from our Landfill and grow a greener Saskatoon.

For more information about recycling and waste handling, visit SaskatoonRecycles.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

For Immediate Release:  December 18, 2014

Household hazardous waste requires proper disposal to reduce risks to humans and animals, and prevent pollution of our land, water and air. These materials should not be placed in the garbage or recycling, poured down the drain or toilet, or released into the environment.

To ensure household hazardous materials are safely disposed of or recycled, the City of Saskatoon coordinates regular Household Hazardous Waste Days for residents to drop-off these materials. The next event will be held this Saturday, December 20, at SaskTel Centre parking lot (101 - 3515 Thatcher Avenue) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. – this will be the last event until April 2015.

Common materials accepted include: pesticides, automotive oil, prescription medicine, batteries, aerosols, poisons, propane cylinders, household cleaners and mercury-containing items.

Please do not bring paint to Household Hazardous Waste Days. Empty paint cans, leftover paint and paint-related products are accepted without charge at all SARCAN recycling depots in Saskatoon. Find out what is and is not accepted through SARCAN’s paint program at www.sarcan.ca/pages/paint.

For a complete list of accepted and non-accepted materials, visit www.saskatoon.ca and click on “H” for Household Hazardous Waste Days.

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
33RD ST W WB LANES CLOSED & EB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM AVE P N TO EDMONTON AVE
(Hydrant repair)
Start: December 18, 9:30 a.m. End: December 18, 4:00 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon Planning and Development Division has now released an updated City of Saskatoon Neighbourhood Profiles (13th Edition) publication, which was originally released on Monday, November 24, 2014.
In the Tuesday, December 16, 2014 update, a Labour Force Table replaced the Employment Table to more accurately reflect the employment and unemployment data from the 2011 Census and the 2013 Estimates. 
The updated Neighbourhood Profiles are available on www.saskatoon.ca (look under “N” for Neighbourhoods). 
If you have downloaded an online copy of the Neighbourhood Profiles prior to Tuesday, December 16, 2014, please revisit the Neighbourhood Profiles to access the updated data. 
If you purchased a hardcopy of the publication prior to Tuesday, December 16, 2014, please return it to the Planning and Development Division (3rd Floor, City Hall) for a refund or to exchange.
For more information, please call Planning and Development at (306) 975-2645.
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.

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Saskatoon Transit has once again partnered with Rock 102 this holiday season to collect non-perishable food items for the Saskatoon Food Bank in the annual Stuff the Bus campaign, taking place this Thursday, December 18.

Rock 102 radio hosts and Saskatoon Transit staff will be at the Saskatoon Co-op Food Store on 8^th Street, in The Centre Mall parking lot, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.  Non-perishable food items will be accepted throughout the day with the goal to completely fill a Saskatoon Transit bus or two with food for the Saskatoon Food Bank.

For more information, please call Saskatoon Transit at 306-975-3100.

 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 following are the hours of civic services and facilities for the 2014/2015 Holiday Season:

City Hall will be closed December 25, 26, and January 1.

Parking meters 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 on December 25, 26, and January 1.

Saskatoon Landfill will be closed on December 25 and January 1. The Landfill will be open all other days with regular winter hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Garbage and Recycling Collection will not occur on December 25 and January 1.  Carts scheduled for collection on these dates are rescheduled for December 27 and January 3, respectively.  Recycle Depots are open 24/7 for over-sized cardboard and wrapping paper; and weekly collection will occur December 15 - January 2, 2015.

All Saskatoon Public Library locations will close early at 5 p.m. on December 24; will close December 25 and December 26; will close early at 5 p.m. on December 31 and will close January 1.

Mendel Art Gallery & Civic Conservatory
Regular hours until December 23: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
December 24, Christmas Eve: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
December 25, Christmas Day: Closed
December 26-30, back to regular hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
December 31, New Year’s Eve: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
January 1, back to regular hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Gallery Shop
Regular hours until December 23: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
December 24, Christmas Eve: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
December 25, Christmas Day: Closed
December 26, back to regular hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
December 31, New Year’s Eve: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
January 1, back to regular hours: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
January 2: Closed for inventory

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 11:45 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 Centre 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:  CLOSED December 25. Regular hours of operation December 26 and January 1.

Indoor Arenas:  All arenas CLOSED December 25, 26, and January 1.
For the modified holiday rink schedule, visit Drop-in Online at www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.

Clarence Downey Speed Skating: OPEN December 25 and January 1; CLOSED December 26 - 28 weather permitting. For extended holiday hours, please call 306-975-3318.

LEISURE CENTRES

Cosmo Civic Centre: FACILITY CLOSED December 25 and 26 January 1. Modified hours for December 24 and 31.

Fitness Circuit & Terry Fox Track (in the SaskTel Sports Centre): FACILITY CLOSED December 25, 26, and January 1. Check drop-in on-line for additional closures throughout the holiday season.

Lakewood Civic Centre: FACILITY CLOSED December 25; modified hours for December 24, 26, 31 and January 1. All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED on December 26 and Jan 1.

Lawson Civic Centre: FACILITY CLOSED December 25; modified hours for December 24, 26, 31 and January 1.

Saskatoon Field House: FACILITY CLOSED December 25; modified hours for December 24, 26, 31, and January 1. Child minding CANCELLED December 26^th:  Holiday Fitness Class December 26^th and January 1^st.

Shaw Centre: FACILITY CLOSED December 25; modified hours for December 26 and January 1. All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED December 24 and 31.

Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre:  FACILITY CLOSED December 25; modified hours for December 24, 26, 31, and January 1. All fitness classes and swim lessons CANCELLED on December 26.

For modified Lane, Public and Parent & Tot Swim times, please visit Drop-in Online at www.saskatoon.ca/go/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.

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NEW
33RD ST EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN IDYLWYLD DR & ONTARIO AVE
(Pole installation)
Start: December 17, 9:00 a.m. End: December 17, 12:00 p.m.

 

33RD ST W WB LANES & EB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN AVE P N & EDMONTON AVE
(Hydrant repair)
Start: December 17, 9:30 a.m. End: December 17, 4:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED NORTH OF VALLEY RD
(Pole maintenance)
Start: December 17, 9:30 a.m. End: December 17, 10:30 a.m.

33RD ST WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN AVE J & AVE K
(Pole installation)
Start: December 17, 1:00 p.m. End: December 17, 4:00 p.m.

ONGOING
20TH ST W CLOSED FROM AVE R S TO AVE S S
(Water & Sewer Connection Repair)
Start: December 17, 7:30 a.m. End: December 17, 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 on our saskatoon.ca homepage or subscribe to our Traffic Detour Service Alerts. You can also follow us on Twitter @YXEServiceAlert and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

 
The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval will open for the 2014 to 2015 season starting Monday, December 15, 2014, at 2:00 p.m.  Public skating hours are as follows:  Monday to Thursday from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10:15 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Admission is free, and all skating skill levels are welcome to enjoy the 400 metre outdoor oval; speed skates are not necessary.  A modern warm-up building provides change rooms, public washrooms, and an area to lace-up skates in comfort.

The facility is closed Fridays.  The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval will also be closed for Canada Winter Games Trial on December 26, 27 and 28; Provincial Meet from January 15 to 18; and Canadian Long Track Meet from February 4 to 8.

The Clarence Downey Speed Skating Oval is located on Dudley Street at Avenue R, in the Gordon Howe Complex.

For more information, please visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/oval or call 306-975-3318.

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.