News Releases

For Immediate Release: August 8, 2014


NEW

WIGGINS AVE N NB AND SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 10TH ST E
(Road Resurfacing)
8th St reduced to one lane through Wiggins Avenue intersection.
Start: August 11, 7:00 a.m. End: August 13, 6:00 p.m.

DIEFENBAKER DR CLOSED BETWEEN DOUGLAS CR (E. LEG) AND DOUGLAS CR (W. LEG)
(Curb Work)
Start: August 11, 7:00 a.m. End: August 11, 12:00 p.m.

MCORMOND DR NB LANES CLOSED FROM KERR RD TO ATTRIDGE DR
(Primary water main installation)
Two-way traffic will be set in the SB lanes
Start: August 11, 9:00 a.m. End: August 21, 6:00 p.m.

OVERNIGHT: MILLAR AVE SB LANES CLOSED FROM 51ST ST TO 43RD ST
(Road paving)
Start: August 11, 7:00 p.m. End: August 12, 7:00 a.m.

OVERNIGHT: CIRCLE DR EB & WB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED AT HWY 16 CLOVERLEAF INTERSECTION
(Durable road markings)
Start: August 11, 7:00 p.m. End: August 12, 7:00 a.m.


ONGOING

KINGSMERE BLVD ALL DIRECTIONS CLOSED AT AND WHITESHORE CR (E. LEG)
(water pipe boring)
Bus routes will be affected. Please watch for temporary bus stop locations and allow extra time in case of delays. Call Saskatoon Transit at 306-975-3100
Start: August 7, 8:00 a.m. End: August 21, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W WB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE F S TO AVE G S
(streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the EB lanes. Speed limit reduced to 30km/h
Start: August 7, 9:00 a.m. End: September 4, 6:00 p.m.

MCORMOND DR NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM EVERGREEN BLVD TO RANGE ROAD 3045
(bridge work)
A detour will be in place. Restrictions are reset each night.
Start: August 7, 7:00 p.m. End: August 14, 6:00 a.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

As we enter the last half of a busy construction season, the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Police Service would like to remind drivers to slow down when passing construction workers or vehicles even when signage is not present.

“We’ve been hearing reports of better speed compliance in marked work zones this year but, as the Traffic Safety Act regulates, drivers must also slow to 60 km/h when passing any road worker, flag person or construction vehicle with flashing orange lights,” says Angela Gardiner, Director of Transportation. “When workers don’t have to worry about their safety they can better focus on the job, allowing them to complete their work faster and more efficiently."

The Saskatoon Police Service enforces the Traffic Bylaw and the provincial Traffic Safety Act and fines start at $210.  Workers also report violators to Police which has resulted in charges being laid.

“Given the dangers, the Saskatoon Police Service has a zero tolerance approach to enforcing speed limits in work zones and when passing workers,” says Staff Sgt. Tony Nadon. “Our officers have been paying close attention to these areas in an effort to encourage drivers to obey traffic laws.”

Gardiner also wishes to remind drivers of the importance of reducing speed in areas where signage is in place but there are no vehicles or workers present. According to the City’s Traffic Control Manual, speed reduction signs may be set up two kilometers in advance of the work starting on high speed roads; this is to provide drivers with enough time to respond to the conditions at hand.

“We understand the frustration of travelling through a marked work zone when construction may appear halted or complete. However, barriers will stay in place where the road is hazardous to drivers or where pavement or concrete needs to set,” says Gardiner.

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! Find traffic detour information on our website at www.saskatoon.ca/go/traffic. You can also follow us on Twitter @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

-30-

OUTDOOR ADULT FITNESS CIRCUIT NOW OPEN AT RIVER LANDING

River Landing is home to Saskatoon’s first outdoor adult fitness circuit. It is the most beautiful spot along the river for a quick workout.  The circuit is a free, accessible, and spontaneous place to exercise.  The fitness circuit is located at the west end of River Landing, next to Victoria Park.

Sixteen pieces of equipment are available to use for a workout involving cardio, muscle and strength, balance, coordination, and flexibility.  Try out the rowing machines, cardio walker, elliptical machines, leg presses, chest presses, lat pull downs, pull up and dip station, multi-bars, agility track, and plyo boxes.  Each machine will have an instruction plaque, showing you how to use the machine.

Now that the fitness circuit has been installed, the unfinished area behind it will be graded, landscaped, and will open by the end of the summer.

River Landing is the jewel of the riverbank, encompassing 36 acres of beautiful green space, public art, lookouts, Persephone Theatre, the future Remai Modern Art Gallery of Saskatchewan, the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market and Ideas Inc., Prairie Fare concession, and the children’s water spray feature.  It is bounded by 19th Street to the North, and runs from 3^rd Avenue to Avenue C, down to the river walk beside the South Saskatchewan River.

 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: August 7, 2014
NEW

CIRCLE DR EB LEFT TURN LANE TO AVE C NB CLOSED
(Camera repair)
Start: August 8, 9:00 a.m. End: August 8, 1:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR NB & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED BETWEEN ST. GEORGE AVE & VERNON AVE
(Guardrail repair)
Start: August 8, 9:30 a.m. End: August 8, 3:30 p.m

OVERNIGHT: MILLAR AVE NB & SB FROM 51ST ST E TO MOLARO PL
(Road paving)
Start: August 8, 7:00 p.m. End: August 11, 7:00 a.m.

ONGOING

20TH ST W WB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE F S TO AVE G S
(streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the EB lanes
Start: August 7, 9:00 a.m. End: September 4, 6:00 p.m.

OVERNIGHT: MCORMOND DR CLOSED FROM EVERGREEN BLVD TO RANGE ROAD 3045
(Bridge work)
A detour will be in place. Restrictions will be reset each night.
Start: August 7, 7:00 p.m. End: August 14, 6:00 a.m.

KINGSMERE BLVD ALL DIRECTIONS CLOSED AT AND WHITESHORE CR (E. LEG)
(water pipe boring)
Bus routes will be affected. Please watch for temporary bus stop locations and allow extra time in case of delays. Call Saskatoon Transit at 306-975-3100
Start: August 7, 8:00 a.m. End: August 21, 6:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 9, 11:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 10, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: August 6, 2014


NEW

SPADINA CRES E NB CLOSED FROM 20TH ST E TO 21ST ST E
(Crane in operation)
Start: August 7, 7:00 a.m. End: August 7, 6:00 p.m.

DIEFENBAKER DR CLOSED FROM ST LAURENT CRES (E. LEG) TO DOUGLAS CRES (W. LEG)
(Intersection improvements)
Start: August 7, 7:00 a.m. End: August 7, 6:00 p.m.

KINGSMERE BLVD & WHITESHORE CR (E. LEG) INTERSECTION CLOSED IN ALL DIRECTIONS
(Water pipe boring)
Bus routes will be affected. Please watch for temporary bus stop locations and allow extra time in case of delays. For more information call Saskatoon Transit at 306-975-3100
Start: August 7, 8:00 a.m. End: August 21, 6:00 p.m.

25TH ST E & 2ND AVE N MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED IN ALL DIRECTIONS
(Concrete curb repairs)
no left turns in any direction
Start: August 7, 9:00 a.m. End: August 7, 12:00 p.m.

20TH ST W WB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE F S TO AVE G S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the eastbound lanes
Start: August 7, 9:00 a.m. End: September 4, 6:00 p.m.

MILLAR AVE SB FROM 51ST ST E TO CIRCLE DR E
(Road paving)
Start: August 7, 7:00 p.m. End: August 8, 7:00 a.m.

OVERNIGHT: MCORMOND DR CLOSED FROM EVERGREEN BLVD TO RANGE ROAD 3045
(Bridge work)
A detour will be in place. Restrictions will be reset each night.
Start: August 7, 7:00 p.m. End: August 14, 6:00 a.m.

ONGOING

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 9, 11:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 10, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: August 5, 2014


NEW

20TH ST W WB & EB MEDIAN (INISIDE) LANES CLOSED BETWEEN AVE Q & AVE P
(Concrete repairs)
Start: August 6, 9:00 a.m. End: August 6, 12:00 p.m.

2ND AVE N NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 26TH ST & QUEEN ST
(Road work)
Start: August 6, 9:00 a.m. End: August 6, 6:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 24TH ST E & 23RD ST E
(SaskTel manhole work)
Start: August 6, 9:00 a.m. End: August 6, 2:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 25TH ST W
(Concrete repairs)
Start: August 6, 12:00 p.m. End: August 6, 12:00 p.m.

OVERNIGHT: MILLAR AVE NB LANES CLOSED FROM 43RD ST TO 51ST ST
(Road paving)
Start: August 6, 7:00 p.m. End: August 7, 7:00 a.m.

ONGOING

MILLAR AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 43RD ST E TO 45TH ST E
(CN Rail track removal)
Start: August 5, 7:00 a.m. End: August 6, 7:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 25TH ST E TO 26TH ST W
(Installation of driveway)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: August 5, 7:00 a.m. End: August 6, 6:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained.
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 9, 11:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the WB lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 7, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: August 5, 2014
                                           

Beginning on Tuesday, August 5, 2014, the west half of the 2nd Avenue South roundabout at River Landing will be closed for approximately one year. The road will become part of the new Remai Modern Gallery’s construction site, the area will be fenced and signs displayed. This is to provide a safe zone around the overhanging structure as it is constructed.

There will be a designated one-way traffic restriction on the roundabout, with no through traffic allowed from 2nd Avenue southbound to Spadina Crescent. Please watch for traffic restriction signs on 2nd Avenue South, 19th Street and Saunders Place. Traffic heading north onto 2nd Avenue from Spadina Crescent will still be able to travel through the roundabout.

There will be a pedestrian corridor on the east side of 2nd Avenue to provide access to Spadina Crescent and River Landing.

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.

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.

Ride Saskatoon Transit for quick and easy transportation to the 2014 Saskatoon EX at Prairieland Park:

August 5 – 10: Show your EX Superpass and ride free with Saskatoon Transit on regular bus routes to the Exhibition area.  Regular transit rates apply for bus travel from the Exhibition area.

August 5 – 10: Ride the shuttle to and from The EX departing from the Downtown Terminal.  Shuttle times vary daily so visit www.saskatoon.ca or call the Customer Service Centre at 306-975-3100 for schedule times.  Regular transit rates apply.

Wednesday, August 6: Children 12 years and under ride free on all regular bus routes.

Thursday, August 7: Adults 60 years and over ride free on all regular bus routes.

Transit route information can be found online at www.saskatoon.ca (click on Google Transit or Click & Go), by calling the Customer Service Centre at 306-975-3100 or pick up a route pamphlet at the downtown terminal, City Hall, or any business where Transit passes are sold.

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 Release August 1, 2014
CP 14-144

The City of Saskatoon, in partnership with the Gabriel Dumont Institute (GDI), Saskatoon Tribal Council Inc., and Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology (SIIT), are celebrating the graduation of seven students from the Aboriginal Heavy Equipment Operator and Class 1A License Pre‑employment Training Program.

Students from the program were recognized at a graduation ceremony at Wanuskewin Heritage Park this morning.

The Aboriginal Heavy Equipment Operator and 1A License Pre‑employment Training Program is designed to train men and women to prepare for employment opportunities in the Saskatoon and Saskatchewan labour market. Participants take a variety of classes including: Class 1A (theory and practical); First Aid/CPR; Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS); Ground Disturbance and Transportation of Dangerous Goods; Confined Space Entry; and, Defensive Driving and Heavy Equipment Operator training where  participants gain first-hand experience operating a variety of heavy equipment. 

“The City is proud to retain and build on the strengths of existing and what we hope will be future partnerships with the Aboriginal community,” says Marno McInnes, City of Saskatoon Director of Human Resources. “This program is an important component of building an inclusive workforce and the Aboriginal community is a very essential part of this goal.”

Upon completion from the pre-employment program, 80% of graduates have secured long-term employment in Saskatchewan; 53% of those were hired by the City of Saskatoon. To date, 37 students have graduated from the program since its inception in 2010.

The City recognizes the hard work and dedication of all 2014 graduates and wishes them well in their future work plans.

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: August 1, 2014


NEW SUNDAY

MILLAR AVE NB LANES & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 52ND ST & MOLARO PL
(Catch basin repairs)
Start: August 3, 8:00 a.m. End: August 3, 6:00 p.m.

ONGOING

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 9, 11:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR N NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 25TH ST E TO 26TH ST W
(Driveway installation)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 2, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the WB lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: August 7, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: August 1, 2014

NEW

MILLAR AVE NB & SB LANES FROM 43RD ST E TO 45TH ST E
(CN Rail track removal)
Start: August 5, 7:00 a.m. End: August 6, 7:00 p.m.

OVERNIGHT: MILLAR AVE NB LANES BETWEEN CIRCLE DR E & 43RD ST E
(Road paving)
Start: August 5, 7:00 p.m. End: August 6, 7:00 a.m.

ONGOING

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 9, 11:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the WB lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: August 7, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW

IDYLWYLD DR N NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 25TH ST E TO 26TH ST W
(Driveway installation)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 2, 6:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S NB & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM ST GEORGE AVE TO VERNON AVE
(Guardrail repair)
Start: August 1, 9:30 a.m. End: August 1, 3:30 p.m.

ONGOING

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August 9, 11:00 p.m.

PRESTON AVE SB RAMP TO CIRCLE DR WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED
(Sound wall installation)
Restrictions reset each day
Start: July 31, 8:00 a.m. End: August 1, 5:00 p.m.

8TH ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM LANSDOWNE AVE TO BROADWAY AVE
(Curb And Sidewalk Repair)
Access To Dufferin Ave Maintained
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: August 1, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the WB lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: August 7, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 31, 2014
                                             

The City of Saskatoon’s 2014 Roadway Preservation and Rehabilitation program is now 50% complete.

“Crews have now paved 89 lane kilometres; we plan to resurface 178 lane kilometres this year - the same distance from City Hall almost to Kindersley,” says Chris Hallam, Director of Construction and Design.

Most recently, crews worked around the clock to pave the Circle Drive and Highway 16 cloverleaf intersection as well as Faithfull Avenue and Miners Avenue.

Next week repaving work will begin on Millar Avenue from 43rd Street to Molaro Place, mostly in the evenings. Major intersection and roadway improvements at Airport Drive and 45th Street West will soon get underway and 24 hour paving of Circle Drive southbound from Attridge Drive to College Drive is scheduled to begin late August.

“We have received a lot of positive feedback from the 24 hour and night work this season,” says Hallam. “Less prolonged congestion means less likelihood of frustration and road rage.”

“With the flexibility of night, day and 24 hour work, we are more aware of planning construction to reduce the impact during peak times and ultimately making the streets of Saskatoon a safer place for workers and motorists.”

The City reminds drivers that even if work appears complete and workers are not present, barriers will stay in place where the road is hazardous to drivers or where fresh pavement or concrete needs to set.

Everyone can play a part in assisting workers to build better roads by driving safely, slowing down and respecting work zones.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 30, 2014


NEW

SPADINA CRES E NB LANE CLOSED FROM 20TH ST E TO 21ST ST E
(Crane in operation)
Start: July 31, 7:00 a.m. End: July 31, 6:00 p.m.

PRESTON AVE SB RAMP TO CIRCLE DR WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED
(Sound wall installation)
Restrictions reset each day
Start: July 31, 8:00 a.m. End: August 1, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED BETWEEN 8TH ST W & TAYLOR ST W
(Manhole repairs)
Start: July 31, 9:00 a.m. End: July 31, 11:30 a.m.

20TH ST W & AVE H INTERSECTION FOUR-WAY STOP
(Change of traffic signal cabinet)
Start: July 31, 9:00 a.m. End: July 31, 3:30 p.m.

AVE C N NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM CIRCLE DR W TO CYNTHIA ST
(Concrete repair)
Start: July 31, 9:00 a.m. End: July 31, 1:00 p.m.

25TH ST & 2ND AVE N INTERSECTION MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED
(Concrete repair)
No left turns in any direction
Start: July 31, 9:00 a.m. End: July 31, 1:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 8TH ST E TO 12TH ST E
(Fringe Festival)
Access to local traffic maintained. Weekends & Holiday Monday restrictions extended from 12:00 p.m. to 10:45 p.m.
Start: July 31, 6:00 p.m. End: August, 9, 10:45 p.m.

ONGOING

11TH ST E EB, WB LANES CLOSED FROM DUFFERIN AVE TO EASTLAKE AVE
(Fringe Festival)
Start: July 30, 8:00 a.m. End: August, 9, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM LANSDOWNE AVE TO BROADWAY AVE
(Curb And Sidewalk Repair)
Access to Dufferin Ave maintained
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: August, 1, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the WB lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: August 6, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Traffic will merge to one lane
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 12, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre will be closed for its annual maintenance from Monday, August 4 to Monday, September 1, 2014.  All programs will be cancelled during the shutdown.  Regularly scheduled programming will resume on Tuesday, September 2, 2014.
 
The Saskatoon Field House; Lakewood, Lawson, and Cosmo Civic Centres; Shaw Centre; and Fitness Circuit & Terry Fox Track will maintain regular hours during this time.  For hours of operation and drop-in programming information at any of these six facilities, please refer to www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.
The City of Saskatoon and Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre thank patrons for their cooperation.
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 Release: July 30, 2014
 

Saskatoon Light & Power will continue to install smart-meters in its customers’ homes.

Earlier today, the Provincial Government ordered SaskPower to remove all of its smart meters installed as part of its smart meter program after a number of burning incidents involving the SaskPower meters occurred.

“Saskatoon Light & Power (SL&P) uses a different brand of smart meter than the ones SaskPower has been ordered to remove,” says Kevin Hudson, Metering and Sustainable Electricity Manager.

“The City-owned power company has been installing AMI meters (smart meters) supplied by Elster Canadian Meter Company since 2008 and we have not heard any reports of problems with the Elster brand meters.”

Over half of the 60,000 SL&P customers already have one of the Elster brand AMI meters, and Saskatoon Light & Power expects to have all its meters replaced by the end of 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.

For Immediate Release: July 29, 2014
 

Due to a backlog of available units this morning, Saskatoon Transit regretfully had to suspend some of its peak-hour service out of Montgomery Place on Route 22 and the Downtown Direct 1. 

A service alert was issued to notify customers.

As of 9:00 a.m. Saskatoon Transit was back to normal operations.  Transit will continue to monitor its service demands throughout the day and will notify customers of any further anticipated route disruptions.

Saskatoon Transit thanks its customers for their patience as it works to provide uninterrupted service. For more information on schedules call Customer Service at 306-975-3100 or visit Saskatoon.ca and click on “T” for Transit.

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 Civic Holiday on Monday, August 4, 2014:

City Hall will be closed.

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.

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

Compost Depots will be open with regular hours of 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Garbage, Recycling and Leaves & Grass collection will take place as scheduled.

All Saskatoon Public Library locations will be closed.

Mendel Art Gallery and Saskatoon Civic Conservatory will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 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 11:45 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:  Regular hours of operation.

Golf Courses: Regular hours of operation (dawn to dusk) for Holiday Park, Wildwood and Silverwood.

Lions SkatePark and Satellite SkateSites: Regular hours of operation (8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.).

Outdoor Pools: Regular hours of operation (1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.).
All Lane Swim, Parent & Tot and Aquafitness cancelled.

Weekend Playground Program: Open 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Leisure Centres

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 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.     

All fitness classes and swim lessons CANCELLED.

Saskatoon Field House: Open 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Special holiday fitness class from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED.

Shaw Centre: Open 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

All fitness classes and child minding CANCELLED.

Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre:  CLOSED.

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.

For Immediate Release: July 29, 2014


NEW

IDYLWYLD DR N NB LANES CLOSED FROM 33RD ST W TO 36TH ST W
(Water & sewer connections)
Two way traffic will be set in the southbound lanes
Start: July 30, 7:00 a.m. End: July 30, 3:00 p.m.

11TH ST E EB, WB LANES CLOSED FROM DUFFERIN AVE TO EASTLAKE AVE
(Fringe Festival)
Start: July 30, 8:00 a.m. End: August, 9, 6:00 p.m.

AVE C N NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM CIRCLE DR W TO CYNTHIA ST
(Concrete repair)
Start: July 30, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 1:00 p.m.

25TH ST & 2ND AVE N INTERSECTION MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED
(Concrete repair)
No left turns in any direction
Start: July 30, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 1:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD DR S SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM TAYLOR ST W TO RUTH ST W
(manhole repairs)
Start: July 30, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 11:00 a.m.


ONGOING

4TH AVE S NB & SB LANES RESTRICTED FROM 22ND ST E TO 21ST ST E
(Manhole repair)
Right turn only for 21st St E WB & EB
Start: July 29, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 3:00 p.m.

8TH ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM LANSDOWNE AVE TO BROADWAY AVE
(Curb and sidewalk repair)
Access To Dufferin Ave Maintained
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: August 1, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. Access to local businesses maintained
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the WB lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 28, 2014


NEW

FAITHFULL AVE SB LANES CLOSED FROM FAITHFULL CR (S. LEG) TO 51ST ST E
(Road Paving)
Two-way traffic set in NB lanes. Local access maintained.
Start: July 29, 7:00 a.m. End: July 30, 7:00 a.m.

4TH AVE N & 21ST ST E INTERSECTION LANE RESTRICTIONS
(Manhole repair)
4th Ave NB & SB through traffic maintained. Right turn only for 21st St E WB & EB
Start: July 29, 9:00 a.m. End: July 29, 3:00 p.m.

MINERS AVE NB LANES CLOSED FROM 54TH ST E TO 56TH ST E
(Road paving)
Two-way Traffic Set In SB Lanes. Local Access Will Be Maintained.
Start: July 29, 7:00 a.m. End: July 30, 7:00 a.m.

PRESTON AVE NB OFF RAMP CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE FROM CIRCLE DR EB CLOSED
(Sound wall installation)
Start: July 29, 9:00 a.m. End: July 29, 5:00 p.m.

ONGOING

8TH ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM LANSDOWNE AVE TO BROADWAY AVE
(Curb And Sidewalk Repair)
Access To Dufferin Ave Maintained.
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: August 1, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July 29, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon is pleased to announce that Cacher pour mieux montrer (Hide to show better) by artist duo Sans façon has received recognition as one of the top public art projects in North America in 2013 from American’s for the Arts, Public Art Year in Review.

Americans for the Arts Public Art Network (PAN) annually recognizes outstanding public art projects that represent the most compelling work for the year from across the continent.  This year, PAN received 342 applications from public art programs and artists, of which 37 were selected for recognition of excellence. The Public Art Network Year in Review is the only program specifically recognizing public art projects.
 
Cacher pour mieux montrer (Hide to show better), is an expression of the French idea that partial concealment enhances attractiveness by suggesting rather than displaying.  For the month of November 2103, existing public art pieces across the city were covered with industrial shrink-wrap.  The pieces remained shrouded while their shape stayed strangely familiar through the new sculptural smooth tight surface.  Cacher pour mieux montrer’s provocative and playful nature invited citizens to temporarily experience what our public space is like without our familiar public art works, inviting questioning and intrigue about the presence and function of public art.  The individual sculptures temporarily hidden from sight were re-revealed in December to great fanfare.

Sans façon required the support of the artists whose work they covered.  The 6 artists and 12 covered sculptures were:

• Ed Gibney:
 Stoic Dignity
 Cascadence
• Douglas Bentham:
 Pinnacle IX - Song of Ancients
 Head
 Arabesque
 Sentinel
• Kevin Quinlan:
 Buskers
 Saskatoon Cougar
• Patty Shiplet:
 Self Portrait
 Play
• Kent Pointon:
 The Winds of Change Are Upon Us
• Laura Hale:
 Maize

The goal of the Placemaker Program is to enhance civic spaces within commercial districts through the placement of temporary public art.  Public art refers to artwork that has been planned and executed in the public domain, in any media, that is outside and accessible to all.  Artists are requested to respond to the sites and take into account the physical or historical contexts.

For more information on the new art installations and the Placemaker Program, please visit www.saskatoon.ca, and look under “P” for Placemaker Program. 

NEW SATURDAY

FAITHFULL AVE AND 52ND ST INTERSECTION CLOSED
(Manhole Repair)
Faithfull Ave NB right turn to 52nd St maintained.
Start: July 26, 7:00 a.m. End: July 26, 6:00 p.m.

NEW SUNDAY

CIRCLE DR AND CLANCY DR INTERSECTION 3-WAY STOP
(Traffic control maintenance)
Circle Dr speed reduced to 60km/h approaching Clancy Dr
Start: July 27, 5:45 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

FAITHFULL AVE NB AND SB LANES CLOSED BETWEEN FAITHFULL CR (S. LEG) AND FAITHFULL CR (N. LEG)
(Manhole Repair)
Start: July 27, 7:00 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

MILLAR AVE NB AND SB LANES CLOSED FROM 50TH ST E TO 51ST ST E
(Catch Basin Repairs)
Start: July 27, 7:00 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE CLOSED FROM 2ND ST E TO 3RD ST E
(Patch paving)
Start: July 27, 7:00 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

BROADWAY AVE SB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE AND NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 10TH ST E TO 11TH ST E
(Patch paving)
Start: July 27, 7:00 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

CLARENCE AVE SB CLOSED FROM CLADER CRES TO BRAND RD
(Patch paving)
Start: July 27, 6:00 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

UNIVERSITY BRIDGE WB LANES CLOSED
(Patch Paving)
Two way traffic will be set in the EB lanes
Start: July 27, 7:30 a.m. End: July 27, 6:00 p.m.

ONGOING

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 30, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 29, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 25, 2014


NEW

TAYLOR ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM IDYLWYLD DR S TO ST PATRICK AVE
(Curb work)
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: July 28, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E WB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM LANSDOWNE AVE TO BROADWAY AVE
(Curb and sidewalk repair)
Access to Dufferin Ave maintained.
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: August 1, 6:00 p.m.

FAITHFULL AVE NB LANES CLOSED FROM 51ST ST E TO FAITHFULL CR (S. LEG)
(Road Paving)
Two-way traffic set in SB lanes. Local access maintained.
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: July 29, 7:00 a.m.

MINERS AVE SB LANES CLOSED FROM 56TH ST E TO 54TH ST E
(Road paving)
Two-way Traffic Set In NB Lanes. Local Access Will Be Maintained.
Start: July 28, 7:00 a.m. End: July 29, 7:00 a.m.

25TH ST E WB RIGHT TURN LANE TO IDYLWYLD DR N NB CLOSED
(Bollard Installation)
Start: July 28, 9:00 a.m. End: July 28, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Access to local businesses maintained. All other traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue.
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August 5, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July 30, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July 29, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

An increase in funding to the City of Saskatoon’s 2014 Sidewalk Rehabilitation program will see approximately 6 kilometres of sidewalk repaired this year, up from a total of 1.7 kilometres in 2013.

“New funding for sidewalk rehabilitation will allow us to better address deteriorating and cracked sidewalks,” says Mike Gutek, Director of Major Projects. “This year our priority is repairing sidewalks in conjunction with roadway rehabilitation in order to reduce the overall impact to motorists and pedestrians.”

Two major rehabilitation projects have been done: one along Assiniboine Drive between Warman Road and Ravine Drive in River Heights and another on Eastlake Avenue between 10th Street and 12th Street in Nutana.

The City is spending $1.8 million which is nearly four times as much in as 2013. Future planned funding increases will enable the City to address more of the Saskatoon sidewalk network. On average, a city block is 165 m, which means approximately 36 city blocks of a single path of sidewalk can be replaced in 2014.

“With a properly funded rehabilitation program, we can improve the condition of sidewalks with patches, crack filling and replacements,” Gutek says. “Residents will start to see sidewalk conditions improve over the next few years as funding levels increase.”

Residents can view locations of the City’s sidewalk rehabilitation program on the new Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map found on saskatoon.ca under Check this Out! or click on Building Better Roads for more program details.

For Immediate Release: July 24, 2014


NEW

CIRCLE DR & HWY 16 CLOVERLEAF INTERSECTION WB & EB OVERPASSES LANE RESTRICTIONS
(Road paving)
Start: July 24, 6:00 p.m. End: July 25, 6:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR NB & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED FROM 39TH STREET TO 44TH STREET
(Guardrail repairs)
Start: July 25, 9:00 a.m. End: July 25, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES AND NB MEDIAN LANE CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Access to businesses will be maintained. Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue.
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 5, 6:00 p.m.

3RD AVE N NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 25TH ST E TO 26TH ST E
(Sewer Lining)
Start: July 4, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 25, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 30, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 29, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

NEW

CIRCLE DRIVE & HIGHWAY 16 CLOVERLEAF INTERSECTION LANE RESTRICTIONS
(Road paving)
Start: July 23, 6:00 p.m. End: July 24, 6:00 a.m.

SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE NB & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED
(Bridge testing)
Start: July 24, 9:00 a.m. End: July 24, 11:00 a.m.

IDYLWYLD DR SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT 25TH STREET INTERSECTION
(Manhole maintenance)
Start: July 24, 9:00 a.m. End: July 24, 12:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR NB & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANES CLOSED UNDER 108TH ST OVERPASS
(Bridge testing)
Start: July 24, 11:00 a.m. End: July 24, 3:00 p.m.

ONGOING

IDYLWYLD DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED NORTH OF 25TH STREET
(Driveway installation)
Start: July 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July 24, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES & NB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Access to local businesses will be maintained. All other traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue.
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 5, 6:00 p.m.

3RD AVE N NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 25TH ST E TO 26TH ST E
(Sewer Lining)
Start: July 4, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 25, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 30, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE S
(Water Main Lining)
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 29, 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 check 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 23, 2014

Beginning on Thursday, July 24, a vehicle height restriction will be in place at the 2nd Avenue South roundabout at River Landing to allow for construction of the new Remai Art Gallery building.

As part of the art gallery’s design some of the building will overhang the 2nd Avenue South roundabout and will require a vehicle height restriction of 4.42 metres (14 feet-6 inches).

The roundabout will be temporarily closed from 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 24, while crews construct the overhang structure. The road is expected to reopen to height-restricted traffic by Friday, July 25, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Signage is posted on 2nd Avenue and Spadina Crescent to inform drivers of the height restrictions.

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.

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: July 22, 2014

Residents of Evergreen and Rosewood neighbourhoods should watch for and obey yellow No Parking street sweeping signs at key intersections over the next week, beginning with Evergreen on Wednesday, July 23 at 7:00 a.m. 

These two neighbourhoods are being swept outside of the accelerated residential street sweeping program because many of the streets are still under development.  On-going construction generates heavy debris that gets tracked through the neighbourhood; and on-street parking and storage are often required throughout the day for materials and contractors. 

The majority of heavy debris will be collected and removed one day before sweeping, making it a two- or three-day process.  Rain or heavy wind may postpone sweeping and new signs will be posted as required.

Yellow No Parking signs will be posted throughout the neighbourhood providing notice of the street sweeping days.  Please remove vehicles by 7:00 a.m. on the posted day so that we can efficiently clean the streets.  Debris removal and sweeping will occur around parked vehicles for this one-time sweeping blitz. 

Due to on-going construction and development within these neighbourhoods, the issue of  mud/debris being tracked onto other roadways will continue, despite our efforts to keep these clean.  Once the neighbourhoods are established, they will become part of the curb-to-curb residential street sweeping each spring.

Find our schedule and more by clicking on Building Better Roads at saskatoon.ca or Street Sweeping.

For more City of Saskatoon Public Service Announcements, News Releases, Traffic Detours and Service Alerts, visit www.saskatoon.ca. You can also follow us on Twitter @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Regular Meeting:

Award of Tender – Hyde Park and Caswell Hill Off-Leash Recreational Areas (p.2)

City Council approved:

* The tender submitted by Wilco Contractors SW Inc., for the construction of the Hyde Park and Caswell Hill Off-Leash Recreational Area projects, at a total estimated cost of $139,280; and

* That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the appropriate agreement and that His Worship the Mayor and the City Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement under the Corporate Seal.

New Contracts with Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd. (p.2)

City Council Approved:

* That the City of Saskatoon (City) enter into the following Agreements negotiated with Cosmopolitan Industries Ltd. (Cosmo):

  a)  the Winding Down Agreement;

  b)  the Agreement for Sale; and

  c)  the Multi Unit Residential Recycling Agreement.

* That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the appropriate contracts and that His Worship the Mayor and the City Clerk be authorized to execute the agreement under the Corporate Seal;

* That the Multi Unit Recycling Fee for 2016 be reviewed as part of the 2016 Business Plan and Budget deliberations; and

* Approve the report of the General Manager, Corporate Performance Department, as amended, with an Agreement for Sale price of $745,875, instead of $650,000.

2013 Annual Report – Investing in a 21st Century (p.3) 

City Council received:

* That the City of Saskatoon 2013 Annual Report – Investing in a 21st Century City be as information.

2013 Report of Service, Savings, and Sustainability: How the City of Saskatoon is Improving Productivity (p.3)

City Council received:

* That the 2013 Report on Service, Savings, and Sustainability: How the City of Saskatoon is Improving Productivity, as information. 

Street Name Change from Avenue O South to Columbian Place (p.7)

City Council Approved:

* That City Council consider proposed Bylaw No. 9203, A bylaw of The City of Saskatoon to change the name of a certain street in the City of Saskatoon as shown on Plan Nos. F5554,101995667, and 102036642.

* That the City Solicitor be requested to prepare the documents required to change the Plans and that His Worship the Mayor and the City Clerk be authorized to execute these documents under Corporate Seal. 

Public Hearing:

Proposed Stonebridge Neighbourhood Concept Plan Amendment (p.1)

City Council Approved:

* That the proposed amendment to the Stonebridge Neighbourhood Concept Plan, as outlined in the report of the General Manager, Community Services Department dated July 22, 2014, be approved.

Flag Raising Requests (p.4)

The Arthritis Society – Month of September

Brazilian Canadian Bridge City Cultural Society Inc. – Brazilian Independent Day – September 7, 2014

PROCLAMATIONS:

October 9, 2014 – ‘Family Business Day’: The Canadian Association of Family Enterprise, Saskatoon Chapter

October 12 – 18, 2014 – ‘Poverty Awareness Week’: Saskatoon Anti-Poverty Coalition / Passion for Action Against Homelessness

September 26 to October 3, 2014 – ‘Biotech Week’: Ag-West Bio

September 20, 2014 – “Run for Humanity Day”: Humanity First Canada

September 18, 2014 – Shinerama Day: Saskatoon Business College 

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The City of Saskatoon (City) provides a wealth of opportunities for citizens to participate in and enjoy the benefits of sport, recreation, and park activities. These activities contribute to the high quality of life residents and visitors enjoy; they are also essential to individual and community health.

To sustain and enhance that quality of life, the City is developing a Recreation and Parks Master Plan (Master Plan). The Master Plan will provide an overall framework to guide the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of recreation and parks programs, services, and facilities.

Saskatoon has experienced significant change and growth since 1996, when the current Public Recreation Policy was put in place. As of March 2014, Saskatoon’s population is estimated to be 253,000, up from 194,000 in 1996. Combined with aging recreation infrastructure, changing participation patterns, as well as a shifting social and economic fabric, the City feels it is timely to develop a Master Plan and has hired a consulting team led by RC Strategies and PERC to assist in its development.

The City has identified that consultation with the community is critical to the development of the Master Plan. Community partners, organizations, and residents will be provided with opportunities to share their thoughts and ideas. To gather the thoughts of citizens, a random telephone survey will be held in the fall of 2014.
There will be other opportunities for citizens and community organizations to provide input on the City’s engagement website at www.shapingsaskatoon.ca and through many other channels over the coming weeks and months. 
“Recreation and parks services and programs help improve our overall health, strengthen families, and enhance our entire community,” said Director of Community Development, Lynne Lacroix. “I strongly encourage everyone to provide their input and have their say about the new Master Plan when given the opportunity. Together we can help shape the provision of recreation and parks services in the city for years to come.”

The Master Plan is scheduled for completion in early 2015.  For more information about the Master Plan process, please contact the City at 306-975-2289.

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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For Immediate Release: July 21, 2014

NEW

CIRCLE DR NB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE & SB MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED AT HWY 16 CLOVERLEAF
(Paving)
Start: July 21, 7:00 p.m. End: July 22, 6:00 a.m.

20TH ST W EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE C S TO AVE D S
(Water line Installation)
Start: July 22, 7:00 a.m. End: July 23, 6:00 p.m.

MILLAR AVE WB EXIT MEDIAN (INSIDE) LANE CLOSED UNDER WARMAN RD OVERPASS
(Lighting repairs)
Start: July 22, 9:00 a.m. End: July 22, 12:00 p.m.

ONGOING

CENTRAL AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 111TH ST W TO GRAY AVE
(Water main lining)
Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue
Start: July 15, 9:00 a.m. End: August, 5, 6:00 p.m.

3RD AVE N NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 25TH ST E TO 26TH ST E
(Sewer Lining)
Start: July 4, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 25, 6:00 p.m.

20TH ST W EB LANES CLOSED FROM AVE G S TO AVE F S
(Streetscaping)
Two way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
Start: July 2, 9:00 a.m. End: July, 30, 6:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM MUNROE AVE S TO CUMBERLAND AVE
(Water main lining)
Start: June 23, 9:00 a.m. End: July 29, 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.

Just six weeks following the confirmation of project funding, the City is pleased to announce it has embarked on the first of a two-stage procurement process for the North Commuter Parkway and the new Traffic Bridge, both part of the City’s Bridging to Tomorrow initiative.

A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) has been issued to secure a private sector partner that will design, build, finance, operate and maintain this important project.

“The RFQ stage is crucial as it gives us the information we need to ensure the best teams with the best experience and qualifications move on to the Request For Proposals (RFP) stage, where they'll provide more details like bridge designs and roadway alignments for the projects," says Dan Willems, the City's Bridging to Tomorrow Project Manager. "This procurement process is very comprehensive and will clearly identify the most qualified private sector partner to work with the City on this important project."

The RFQ, which will remain open until September 10, 2014, will lead to a shortlist of up to three proponents who will participate in the RFP process.

A video that provides additional information regarding concepts for the North Commuter Parkway and the Traffic Bridge may be viewed on the City’s YouTube channel at  http://www.youtube.com/user/saskatooncitynews.

For Immediate Release: July 21, 2014
 

Due to a planned service interruption by the City’s internet service provider, the City of Saskatoon’s website, www.saskatoon.ca, will not be available Wednesday July 23, 2014 overnight between 12:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. (July 22-23 overnight). While the website will not be affected for the entire duration, access cannot be guaranteed during the planned servicing time.

The service interruption may affect Saskatoon Transit Click & Go service. Transit users can use Phone & Go or Google Transit during the interruption.  

The City will continue to share information with the public, as needed, through Twitter, Facebook and the City blog. As part of our focus on continuous improvement we aim to consistently provide high-quality services to meet the needs of Saskatoon citizens. We apologize for any inconvenience due to this interruption.

For Immediate Release: July 18, 2014

22ND STREET UNDER CIRCLE DRIVE OVERPASS, JULY 21 

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, July 21, the following road restrictions will be in place while crews repair some lighting.

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

- 22nd Street eastbound and westbound curb (outside) lanes will be closed under the Circle Drive overpass

11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

- 22nd Street eastbound and westbound median (inside) lanes will be closed under the Circle Drive overpass

IDYLWYLD DRIVE BETWEEN 8TH STREET & 20TH STREET, JULY 21

Starting at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, July 21, Idylwyld Drive northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed between 8th Street and 20th Street while crews on the concrete centre median.

The work is expected to last one day.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 18, 2014
                                           

IDYLWYLD DRIVE NORTHBOUND NEAR 25TH STREET, JULY 18-21 

Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 18, Idylwyld Drive northbound curb (outside) lane will be closed just north of 25th Street to accommodate a driveway installation.

The lane is expected to re-open by 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 21.

IDYLWYLD DRIVE FROM 20TH STREET TO SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE, JULY 19-21

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, Sunday, July 20 and Monday, July 21, Idylwyld Drive northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed from 20th Street to the Sid Buckwold Bridge while crews repair the guardrail.

The lanes are expected to re-open by 4:00 p.m. each day.

24TH STREET FROM SPADINA CRESCENT TO 4TH AVENUE, JULY 19

Beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 19, 21st Street will be closed from Spadina Crescent to 4th Avenue for the Brits by the Bus event.

The road is expected to reopen by 6:00 p.m. the same day.

CLARENCE AVENUE NORTHBOUND OVERPASS OVER CIRCLE DRIVE, JULY 20

Beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, Clarence Avenue northbound over the Circle Drive overpass will be closed while crews patch pave the road.

Two-way traffic will be set in the southbound lanes. The work is expected to last one day. 

MILLAR AVENUE FROM 51ST STREET TO 56TH STREET, JULY 20

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, Millar Avenue will be closed from 51st Street to 56th Street while crews work on underground utilities.

The work is expected to last one day.

UNIVERSITY BRIDGE EASTBOUND CURB LANE, JULY 20

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, the University Bridge eastbound curb (outside) lane will be closed while crews patch pave the road.

Two-way traffic will be set in the westbound lanes. The work is expected to last one day.

PRESTON AVENUE TURN BAYS TO INNOVATION BOULEVARD, JULY 20-26

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 20, the following road restrictions will be in place while crews pave the turning lanes from Preston Avenue to Innovation Boulevard:

- Preston Avenue southbound right turn lane to Innovation Boulevard will be closed
- Preston Avenue northbound left turn bay to Innovation Boulevard will be closed

The work is expected to last one week.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

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.  On July 19, 2014 and the days listed below, a temporary site is set up at Credit Union Centre parking lot (101 - 3515 Thatcher Avenue) from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Household Hazardous Waste Days:
July 19
August 16
September 20
October 18
November 15
December 20

Accepted Materials include:
· pesticides
· automotive oil
· prescription medicine
· batteries
· aerosols
· poisons
· propane cylinders
· household cleaners
· mercury-containing items
· electronics (accepted by the Electronic Producer Recycling Association)

Leftover paint and empty paint cans are accepted without charge at all SARCAN recycling depots in Saskatoon.  Please do not bring paint to Household Hazardous Waste Day unless it is not accepted through the SARCAN program.  Find out what is accepted through SARCAN’s paint program at www.sarcan.ca/pages/paint.

For a complete list of accepted and non-acceptable 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.

For Immediate Release: July 17, 2014
 

IDYLWYLD DRIVE FROM 20TH STREET TO SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE, JULY 18 

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 18, Idylwyld Drive northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed from 20th Street to the Sid Buckwold Bridge while crews repair the guardrail.

The lanes are expected to re-open by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

IDYLWYLD DRIVE NORTHBOUND NEAR 25TH STREET, JULY 18

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 18, Idylwyld Drive northbound curb (outside) lane will be closed just north of 25th Street to accommodate a driveway installation.

The lane is expected to re-open by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

20TH STREET & 4TH AVENUE INTERSECTION, JULY 18

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 18, the following road restrictions will be in place at the 20th Street and 4th Avenue intersection while crews repair a manhole:

- 20th Street eastbound lanes will be closed approaching 4th Avenue
- 20th Street westbound median (inside) lane will be closed approaching 4th Avenue
- 4th Avenue southbound lanes will be closed approaching 20th Street
- 4th Avenue northbound median (inside) lane will be closed approaching 20th Street

The lanes are expected to re-open by 6:00 p.m. the same day.

51ST STREET OVERPASS OVER IDYLWYLD DRIVE, JULY 18

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 18, 51st Street westbound and eastbound median (inside) lanes will be closed on the overpass over Idylwyld Drive while crews repair an expansion joint.

The lanes are expected to re-open by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: Thursday, July 17, 2014
                                             

The City of Saskatoon today unveiled a new interactive map making it easy for citizens to find out when utility cuts will be repaired. 

“Roads, sidewalks and landscaping may be affected by utility cuts and this new online map gives citizens access to a four week rolling schedule for asphalt, concrete and landscape repairs,” says Pat Hyde, Director of Public Works. “We really want to help residents to understand what a utility cut is and that the maintenance and repair process for utility cuts is quite different than that of repairing a pothole.”

Utility cuts are excavations required to connect, repair or maintain underground utilities such as water, sewer, natural gas, electricity or telephone services. The utilities are often located more than 8 feet deep. Cuts have straight edges and can range in size from one foot to more than 10 feet wide.

Once the underground work to utilities is completed, the excavation is filled with gravel.  Roads are maintained as required with a grader until they can be permanently paved.  Typically, utility cuts can only be permanently repaired, from May to October, when the ground has defrosted, and when hot-mix asphalt is available.  This process is required to allow the ground to settle and prevent the permanent asphalt layer from sinking.                                                             

Since early June crews have repaired 410 utility cuts. There are approximately 650 still to be repaired.

“2014 has seen the third highest number of water main breaks on record, due to the severity of the winter and the impact of deeper than normal ground frost,” says Hyde. “In addition, as Saskatoon continues to grow, there is more construction and more infill development in established neighbourhoods, which means more utility cuts are required to connect underground services.”

With such a high number of utility cuts to pave this year, the City has employed contractors to help repair the roads faster, reducing the inconvenience to motorists.

To access the Utility Cuts and Repair Schedules map go to saskatoon.ca/go/maps. Find more information about road repairs by clicking on Building Better Roads at saskatoon.ca.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 16, 2014
                                           

8TH STREET UNDER CIRCLE DRIVE OVERPASS, JULY 17

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, 8th Street westbound and eastbound turn lanes onto the Circle Drive will be closed  while crews repair lighting.

Access to Circle Drive will be maintained. The lanes are expected to reopen by 12:00 p.m. Noon the same day. 

33RD STREET UNDER THE CIRCLE DRIVE OVERPASS, JULY 17

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, 33rd Street westbound curb (outside) lane will be closed under the Circle Drive overpass while crews repair lighting.

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 4:00 p.m. the same day.

CIRCLE DRIVE SOUTHBOUND APPROACHING 33RD STREET OFF RAMP, JULY 17

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, Circle Drive southbound curb (outside) lane will be closed approaching the 33rd Street off ramp while crews repair a large hole beside the road.

Access to 33rd Street off ramp will be maintained. The work is expected to last one day.

4TH AVENUE BETWEEN 19TH STREET & 20TH STREET, JULY 17

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17, 4th Avenue southbound lanes and northbound median (inside) lane will be closed between 19th Street and 20th Street while crews repair a sanitary sewer main.

The road is expected to reopen by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

OVERNIGHT RESTRICTIONS CIRCLE DRIVE NORTH BRIDGE, JULY 17

Beginning at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, Circle Drive North Bridge eastbound and westbound median (inside) lanes will be closed while crews wash the bridge.

To minimize disruption to traffic, the work is scheduled to take place overnight and the lanes are expected to be re-open by 6:00 a.m. on Friday, July 18.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 15, 2014
                                           

4TH AVENUE BETWEEN 21ST STREET AND 20TH STREET, JULY 16

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 16, 4th Avenue southbound lanes and the northbound median (inside) lane will be closed from 21st Street to 20th Street while crews repair a manhole.

The road is expected to reopen by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

OVERNIGHT RESTRICTIONS CIRCLE DRIVE NORTH BRIDGE, JULY 16

Beginning at 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, Circle Drive North Bridge eastbound and westbound curb (outside) lanes will be closed while crews wash the bridge.

The lanes are expected to be reopen by 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 17.

The 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The City of Saskatoon's Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Office, in partnership with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, are planning a unity walk to celebrate the life and work of Nelson Mandela on Friday, July 18.

The First Annual Nelson Mandela International Day will start with a workshop on the messages of Nelson Mandela at the Indian and Métis Friendship Centre (168 Wall Street) where participants will work with community members and workshop leaders to create messages of unity and peace.  The unity walk will take place following the workshop and proceed to City Hall Civic Square (222 3rd Avenue North) where refreshments and performances by local community artists will take place.  Everyone is welcome to drop-in to attend all or part of the celebrations. There is no cost to participate.

International Nelson Mandela Day
Friday, July 18, 2014
1:00 p.m.   Workshop at the Saskatoon Indian and Métis Friendship Centre
2:00 p.m.   Unity Walk to City Hall Civic Square
2:30 p.m.   Refreshments and performances by community artists in Civic Square 

For more information, please contact the Cultural Diversity and Race Relations Office at 306-975-7826.

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: July 14, 2014
                                           

CENTRAL AVENUE CLOSED FROM 111TH STREET AND 113TH STREET, JULY 15 – AUGUST 5

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, Central Avenue will be closed from 111th Street to 113th Street while crews work on water main linings.

Traffic will be detoured via Egbert Avenue. The work is expected to last 3 weeks.

33RD STREET BETWEEN EDMONTON AVE & AVE P, JULY 15-17

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, the following restrictions will be in place while crews work on underground utilities:

- 33rd Street westbound lanes will be closed between Avenue P and Edmonton Avenue
- 33rd Street eastbound median (inside) lane will be closed between Edmonton Avenue and Avenue P

A detour will be in place for westbound traffic. The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 17.

51ST STREET OVERPASS OVER IDYLWYLD DRIVE, JULY 15

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 15, 51st Street eastbound and westbound median (inside) lanes will be closed on the Idylwyld Drive overpass while crews repair an expansion joint.

The road is expected to reopen by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 11, 2014
 

MILLAR AVENUE BETWEEN 43RD STREET AND MOLARO PLACE, JULY 13 

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 13, the following restrictions will be in place on Millar Avenue while crews prepare the road to be paved:

Sunday, July 13 – 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- Millar Avenue northbound will be closed between 52nd Street and Molaro Place
- Millar Avenue southbound median (inside) lane will be closed between 52nd Street and Molaro Place
- Millar Avenue northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed between 43rd Street and 51st Street

The work is expected to last one day.

VARIOUS RESTRICTIONS FOR RIVER RUN CLASSIC, JULY 13

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 13, the following restrictions will be in place to accommodate the Run River Classic event:

- Spadina Crescent will be closed from 2nd Avenue to 20th Street
- Spadina Crescent northbound will be closed from 20th Street to Silverwood Road
- Spadina Crescent southbound will be closed between Mendel traffic lights and 24th Street (including University Bridge westbound ramp to Spadina Crescent)

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 12:00 p.m. Noon, the same day.

SPADINA CRESCENT CLOSURES FOR A TASTE OF SASKATCHEWAN, JULY 13-20

Beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, Spadina Crescent will be closed from 20th Street to near 3rd Avenue to accommodate the A Taste of Saskatchewan event.

Spadina Crescent northbound curb (outside) lane will also be closed between 20th Street and the Bessborough parking lot entrance.

The restrictions will be lifted by 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, July 20.

OVERNIGHT RESTRICTIONS: 24TH STREET BETWEEN 3RD AVENUE & 5TH AVENUE, JULY 13

Beginning at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, 24th Street will be closed between 3rd Avenue and 5th Avenue while crews apply permanent road markings.

The 4th Avenue intersection will remain open to through traffic.

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 14.

OVERNIGHT RESTRICTIONS: IDYLWYLD DRIVE FROM 24TH STREET TO 27TH STREET, JULY 13

Beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 13, Idylwyld Drive will be closed between 24th Street and 27th Street while crews apply permanent road markings.

A detour will be in place in both directions.

The road is expected to reopen by 6:00 a.m. on Monday, July 14.

REMINDER: ASSINIBOINE DRIVE FROM WARMAN ROAD TO KOOTENAY DRIVE, JULY 11-17

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11, Assiniboine Drive will be closed between Warman Road and Kootenay Drive while crews pave the road.

A detour will be in place via Churchill Drive and Ravine Drive.

The work is expected to last 8 days.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

The Saskatoon Fire Department is concerned about drivers disobeying the flashing red lights in front of all of our fire stations. We have requested that the Saskatoon Police Service regularly assist us in addressing this problem and in some instances have forwarded licence plate numbers to them.

According to The Traffic Safety Act drivers facing a flashing red light must stop at the crosswalk, light or sign and not proceed until it is safe to do so. In some instances, our fire stations were built close to the street and the fire trucks must cross all lanes of traffic while preparing to back in. It is not safe to drive behind a fire truck that is preparing to back up.

As a department we say thank you to the hundreds of residents who pull to the right when they see lights and sirens behind them, who stay well back during emergencies letting us do our work efficiently and who wait patiently at the flashing red lights so we can either leave or return to the Station. In fires and life threatening emergencies every second counts. We rely on the public to help us gain every second possible.

Construction season is progressing well as the City of Saskatoon builds, repairs and maintains more roads than ever before.

“To date we have completed approximately 30 per cent of the 2014 roadway preservation and rehabilitation work,” says Chris Hallam, Director of Construction and Design. “This year we plan to resurface 178 lane kilometres of road, the same distance as from here to Kindersley and 100 kilometres more than last year.”

So far, crews have resurfaced 52 lane kilometres, including recent major projects on Circle Drive from College Drive to the Circle Drive North Bridge and on 51st Street between Faithfull Avenue and Wanuskewin Road. Work on both of these major projects was done at night only, opening the road to traffic during the day.

“As a result of the night work we have definitely seen reduced congestion and less of an impact on drivers and surrounding businesses,” says Hallam. “The same goes for the 24 hour cycles, where the work is being completed quickly, reducing the overall impact to drivers.”

Work to twin Claypool Drive is underway this week. Next week, resurfacing work will be happening 24 hours a day at the Circle Drive and Highway 16 cloverleaf intersection and beginning in late July, Millar Avenue will be repaved from 43rd Street to Molaro Place, in the evenings only.

“Above average rainfall in June delayed some projects by one to two weeks”, says Hallam. “Typically the weather is better during the months of July, August and September so we are confident crews will be able to make up that lost time.” 

The City encourages citizens to use the new Road Restrictions and Construction Projects interactive map found on saskatoon.ca under Check This Out! or click on the link to Building Better Roads. The map allows users to pinpoint the exact location of work zones using GPS technology and get up to date information, schedules and timelines for each project.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

For Immediate Release: July 10, 2014
                                           

CIRCLE DRIVE NORTHBOUND BETWEEN HIGHWAY 16 & TAYLOR STREET

Beginning at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11, the following lane restrictions will be in place on Circle Drive while crews remove a weight scale.

- Circle Drive northbound curb lane from Highway 16 off ramp to Circle Drive westbound will be closed
- Circle Drive northbound median (inside) lane closed after Highway 16 westbound to Circle Drive northbound on ramp will be closed 

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 2:00 p.m. the same day.

IDYLWYLD DRIVE BETWEEN 20TH STREET & SID BUCKWOLD BRIDGE, JULY 11

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 11, Idylwyld Drive northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed while crews repair guard rails.

The lanes are expected to reopen by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Today, officials from the City of Saskatoon (City), along with Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Saskatoon Wildlife Federation, unveiled the first in a series of special interpretative signs at Hyde Park to celebrate the history of how the very unique naturalized park, one of the first of its kind in Saskatoon, came to be. 

Participating in the ceremony were His Worship Mayor Donald Atchison; Darren Crilly, Director of Parks Division; Michael Champion, Head of Industry and Government Relations for Ducks Unlimited Canada in Saskatchewan; Bob Rogers, Conservation Chairperson for the Saskatoon Wildlife Federation; and Reed Hentze, Vice President of the Rosewood Community Association.

Hyde Park, located in the Rosewood neighbourhood, is a 123 acre naturalized park.  The park was first identified in 2007 in the South East Park Landscape Master Plan when the City and involved stakeholders, Ducks Unlimited Canada and the Saskatoon Wildlife Federation, made it a priority to approach the development of the Hyde Stormwater Management Area in an innovative way and work with the land in its naturalized state.  Through this process, it was decided it should serve as a wetland, storm water pond area, and a centre for interpretative and educational programming with respect to wetlands and natural habitat.  Through feedback from the community, the final park design evolved to include a total of five ponds, numerous walking trails and sports fields, play equipment, and an off-leash dog park set to open soon.

“Our citizens identify park space as vital to the quality of life in Saskatoon,” said Mayor Donald Atchison. “This park is special because it includes wetlands in their naturalized state unusual in their size and proximity to the city. This would not have been possible without the collaboration of the Administration, Ducks Unlimited Canada, and the Saskatoon Wildlife Federation.”

Ducks Unlimited Canada, along with partners, including a major contribution from the Saskatoon Wildlife Federation, committed an initial $100,000 to the development and construction of an educational and habitat component, including spearheading future programming and events.  Interpretative signs are a part of this educational component.  The sign unveiled at the ceremony today represents the first in a series designed to illustrate the history of the land and Hyde Park’s importance as a naturalized wetland in Saskatoon.

Hyde Park will be officially completed in the Fall of 2014, at which time, it will be owned and maintained by the City of Saskatoon Parks Division.  For more information on park construction, visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/parks.

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 Hall main elevator located in the lobby will be closed for repair and upgrade starting on Tuesday, July 8 and continuing for approximately twelve weeks (until September 29). The City Hall south elevator will remain open during this time.

During the work period, there will be several ways to access City Hall upper floors: 

• From the main entrance lobby:
• Use the main stairway, across from the public washrooms.
• Take the stairs by the Information Desk which go up one floor to the south wing. The south elevator is down the hall, across from Human Resources.
• If you require use of the accessibility lift to the south elevator, please see the security attendant by the main doors.
   
• From the 4th Avenue entrance:
• This entrance gives direct access to the south elevator and is wheelchair accessible. The south stairway to upper floors can also be accessed from this entrance. Both the south elevator and the south stairway are at the end of the hall. 

The City of Saskatoon apologizes for the inconvenience.

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: July 8, 2014
 

CLAYPOOL DRIVE WESTBOUND FROM MCCLOCKLIN ROAD TO HAMPTON GATE NORTH, JULY 9 – 31

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9, Claypool Drive westbound between McClocklin Road and Hampton Gate North will be closed as work continues on twinning Claypool Drive.  There will be no access to Hampton Gate North from Claypool Drive westbound while the work is taking place. The eastbound lane will remain open.  Westbound traffic on Claypool Drive will be detoured down McClocklin Road.

The work is expected to take three weeks, 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 @cityofsaskatoon and with #betterroadsYXE and like Saskatoon City News on Facebook.

Recent emergencies in southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba remind us that disasters do happen. The City of Saskatoon has done extensive planning to develop and practice the protocols and working relationships that will enable us to effectively respond to a disaster. Even with the infrastructure in place, a critical piece of any disaster response and recovery is the delivery of important information to the public in a timely manner. notifynow is one of the tools we have in place to promptly reach the citizens of Saskatoon individually.

Saskatoon’s Emergency Measures Organization will use notifynow to inform citizens about what to do in an emergency that affects their residence and provide them with relevant information when we start working towards recovering and returning to our normal lifestyles. For example, we might need to let you know that your home has sustained damage even when you are away on holiday, let you know if, or when additional landfill space will be open so that you can begin to clean up, or provide you with information about how to access disaster assistance programs.

“No matter how well prepared a community is, disasters are defined as events that overwhelm our capacity to respond normally,” says Director of Emergency Planning, Ray Unrau. “We are asking everyone to sign up for notifynow so in an emergency, we can contact you, before, during or after the disaster, with important information that will help you personally make the best choices you can.”

Citizens wanting to receive important messages from Saskatoon’s Emergency Measures Organization must first sign up. To do that, visit saskatoon.ca, search under “N” for notifynow and follow the links to sign up, read the frequently asked questions or watch an instructional video on the process.