News Releases

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan                      Department of Finance

On behalf of Finance Minister Joe Oliver, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Member of Parliament for Battlefords–Lloydminster Gerry Ritz today announced the Government of Canada will help fund the North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge Replacement project in Saskatoon.

Through the P3 Canada Fund the federal government will provide an investment of up to $66 million to the project while the Province of Saskatchewan will contribute $50 million.  The Minister was joined at the event by Brad Wall, Premier of Saskatchewan, and Donald J. Atchison, Mayor of Saskatoon.

The project involves the replacement of the 107-year-old Traffic Bridge in the City’s downtown core, the development of a new bridge crossing in the City’s north end, as well as connecting roadways. Once the Parkway and the two bridges are opened traffic congestion will be reduced and travel times will be shorter for vehicles and public transit, resulting in reduced greenhouse gas emissions and improved air quality.

Quick Facts

- This will be the fourth P3 Canada Fund project in the Province of Saskatchewan.

- A Request for Qualifications will be issued in the coming weeks by the City of Saskatoon to identify private sector proponent teams interested in bidding on the project.  The contractor, once selected, will design, build, finance, operate and maintain the project over a 30-year period.

- Construction of the Parkway and traffic bridge is anticipated to take three construction seasons, and the P3 model is expected to deliver the project on time and on budget.

- The $1.2 billion P3 Canada Fund is managed by PPP Canada, a Crown corporation responsible for advancing Canadian P3s through the provision of expert advice and support to all levels of government.

Quotes

“Our Government recognizes the advantages P3s can provide to build public infrastructure for better value while creating jobs and growth.  The North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge Replacement project is a great example of how our Government is working with the City of Saskatoon and the private sector to reduce procurement and overhead costs to the benefit of all taxpayers in Saskatchewan.”

Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

“Our government is pleased to work with the City of Saskatoon and the Government of Canada on an innovative project that demonstrates the value of P3 partnerships.  Saskatoon is one of the fastest growing cities in Canada and the North Commuter Parkway Bridge will help sustain that growth by connecting residential neighbourhoods to the expanding industrial area in the City’s north end.”

Brad Wall, Premier of Saskatchewan

”Our continuing strong partnership with the federal government and provincial government is once again benefitting the people of Saskatoon.  This bundled bridge project is the first of its kind in Canada. It will shorten commutes, cut fuel costs, grow the economy and improve our quality of life.  It fits perfectly with the City’s strategic goals, and supports our Growing Forward! Shaping Saskatoon planning initiative.”

Donald J. Atchison, Mayor of Saskatoon

Additional Links:

www.p3canada.ca

                                          

The curb and centre lanes on College Drive westbound are closed from Preston Avenue to Campus Drive (southeast entrance to University of Saskatchewan), including the right turning lane from Preston Avenue southbound to College Drive westbound.  Traffic is merging to the median lane at Preston Avenue.

Drivers are encouraged to use an alternate route if possible, as this is a high-traffic route for morning commuters heading into downtown.  Please allow extra time to get to your destination if travelling in this area.

Crews repaired a primary water main on College Drive westbound over the weekend, just west of Preston Avenue.  The repair was successful, but the work zone remains in place for paving to occur on Monday.  The road is expected to reopen by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, June 9, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

The City thanks everyone for their patience.

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.

Aiming to reduce speeding and improve pedestrian safety, the City of Saskatoon is piloting a project to install flashing lights in school zones. Starting on June 9, flashing lights will be installed on the school zone signs on Clarence Avenue between 3rd Street and 5th Street.

“Evidence has shown that flashing lights along with reduced speed limits are effective in improving safety in school zones,” says Angela Gardiner, Director of Transportation. “This pilot project is another step to alert drivers to reduce their speed and slow down.”
The maximum speed limit in school zones is 30 kilometres per hour. Reduced speed limits will continue to be in effect in elementary and secondary school zones from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, September 1 to June 30. No exceptions are made for statutory holidays or school breaks. The penalty for exceeding the school zone speed limit is a fine and SGI demerit points

The work is expected to be completed by June 20, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.
Drivers are reminded to watch for pedestrians as they travel through school zones.

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.

SATURDAY

2ND AVENUE NORTHBOUND FROM 25TH STREET TO 26TH STREET, JUNE 7  

Beginning at 7.45 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2nd Avenue northbound lanes between 25th Street and 26th Street will be closed to accommodate a crane. Two-way traffic will be set in the southbound lanes.

The road is expected to reopen by 2:00 p.m. the same day.

SPADINA CRESCENT AND 19TH STREET, JUNE 7-8

Beginning at 12:00 p.m. noon on Saturday, June 7, the following road restrictions will be in place on Spadina Crescent and 19th Street to accommodate the Walmart Walk for Miracles event.

- Spadina Crescent will be closed from 3rd Avenue to 20th Street

- 19th Street eastbound curb (outside) lane will be closed from the Broadway Bridge to 3rd Avenue

The restrictions will be lifted by 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 8.

SUNDAY

VARIOUS LANE RESTRICTIONS FOR LIGHT POLE WORK,  JUNE 8

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 8, the following restrictions will be in place while Saskatoon Light & Power crews work on light poles.

- Circle Drive southbound curb (outside) lane will be closed south of the Taylor Street on ramp.

- Circle Drive northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed between 33rd Street and Airport Drive.

- Warman Road southbound curb (outside) lane closed between 7th Avenue and Cavers Street.

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 12:30 p.m. the same day.

VARIOUS RESTRICTIONS FOR BRIDGE CITY BOOGIE, JUNE 8

Starting at 6:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 8, various road restrictions will be in place to accommodate the Bridge City Boogie. The main road restrictions will include:

- Broadway Bridge SB curb (outside) lane will be closed from 19th Street to Saskatchewan Crescent

- Spadina Crescent will be closed from 2nd Avenue to 20th Street and northbound from Dundonald Avenue to the Water Treatment Plant

- 3rd Avenue will be closed between 2nd Avenue and 19th Street  and 3rd Avenue southbound will be closed at 19th Street

- St. Henry Ave will be closed from Taylor Street to Ruth Street

- Taylor Street will be closed from St. Henry Avenue to Saskatchewan Crescent

The restrictions will be lifted by 11:00 a.m. the same day. Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area during the event and watch for participants and officials.  

COLLEGE DRIVE WEST OF PRESTON, JUNE 8

Starting on Sunday, June 8, the College Drive westbound curb (outside) and middle lanes will be closed west of Preston Avenue while crews work on a water main. The restrictions will be lifted by evening the same day.

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.

The City of Saskatoon’s (City) Summer Leisure Mini Guide (Mini Guide) will be conveniently delivered to households with The SundayPhoenix on Sunday, June 8, 2014, and is also available for pick up at any indoor Leisure Centre, Saskatoon Public Library, or the Mendel Art Gallery.

The Mini Guide is your community source for a variety of arts, culture, and recreational activities throughout the summer months.  It contains up-to-date information on summer sites and programs, including outdoor pools, municipal golf courses, playground programs, youth centres, skateboard parks, Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, Gordon Howe Campground, Leisure Centres, and Red Cross Swim Programs. 

The Mini Guide also includes information on exciting new Recreation and Sport Summer promotions like the Summer Indoor LeisureCard and Saskatoon Kids Club Card.

The Summer Indoor LeisureCard is a limited time promotion that provides unlimited access to the City’s seven indoor Leisure Centres in July and August for one low price ($90/Adults; $55/Youth; $185/Families).  Sales end Sunday, July 20, 2014.  Restrictions apply.  Visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/leisurecard for more information. 
 
Designed especially for kids, the Saskatoon Kids Club promotion features a Club Card valid June 15 through to September 1, 2014.  Visit seven of the listed sites and receive the eighth visit FREE!  Club Cards are available for pick up at any City leisure facility or public library. 

Family Fun Packs are still available for purchase at any of the Leisure Centres for the discounted price of $100, plus GST, ($137 value) until Monday, June 30, 2014.  Fun Packs include nine family admission passes to the City’s most popular attractions. 

For more information on the Mini Guide or other summer programs and promotions, visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/leisure.

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.

8TH STREET FROM BROADWAY AVENUE TO CLARENCE AVENUE, JUNE 9-21

Starting at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, June 9, the following restrictions will be in place on 8th Street between Broadway Avenue and Clarence Avenue while crews pave the road. To minimize disruption to traffic the work will be carried out in two phases:

Phase 1: June 9-14

• 8th Street eastbound lanes will be closed from Broadway Avenue to Clarence Avenue.
• Two-way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes.
• No access to 8th Street from Dufferin Avenue northbound, Landsdowne Avenue northbound or Albert Avenue northbound.

Phase 2: June 16-21

• 8th Street westbound lanes will be closed from Clarence Avenue to Broadway Avenue.
• Two-way traffic will be accommodated in the eastbound lanes.
• No access to 8th Street from Dufferin Avenue southbound, Landsdowne Avenue southbound or Albert Avenue southbound

IDYLWYLD DRIVE AND 25TH STREET INTERSECTION, JUNE 9-22

Starting at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, June 9, the right turn lane from 25th Street westbound onto Idylwyld Drive northbound will be closed as crews begin Phase 2 of streetscaping for the 25th Street Extension. Westbound traffic will be detoured to 24th Street. The work is expected to take three weeks.

Please note Idylwyld Drive northbound right turn lane onto 25th Street eastbound is also currently closed while crews work on streetscaping. This work is expected to continue for another two weeks.

CIRCLE drive northbound LANE FROM CLANCY DRIVE - TEMPORARILY CLOSED ON JUNE 9

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 9, Clancy Drive eastbound traffic will not be able to turn onto Circle Drive northbound. Access to Circle Drive southbound will be maintained. 

Crews will be repairing the jersey barriers at the acceleration lane from Clancy Drive eastbound to Circle Drive northbound as part Circle Drive South Project.  The work is expected to be completed by 3:00 p.m. the same day.

PRESTON AVENUE AT WILLIS CRESCENT, JUNE 9

Starting at 1:30 p.m. on Monday, June 9, Preston Avenue southbound curb lane will be closed at Willis Crescent while crews work on the road. The work is expected to take four weeks.

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.

After the successful launch of new.saskatoon.ca, the hub for resident engagement and involvement throughout the development of the new City of Saskatoon website, the City of Saskatoon (City) will host an hour-long twitter chat with representatives from the new website development team on Monday, June 9, 2014 at 3:30 p.m.

This twitter chat will give curious and interested residents the opportunity to ask direct questions and get an answer from those working directly on the website redesign project.  To participate, sign-up or log-in to Twitter and tweet your questions to @cityofsaskatoon or by using the #newsaskatoon hashtag.

Because public involvement is a vital aspect of the website redesign project, this is a great topic for the first-ever twitter chat and the City looks forward to hosting more twitter chats in the future.  This twitter-chat will aim to increase participation in the current engagement exercise, have people sign-up for updates and announcements and a way for the City to answer any questions people may have about the project overall. 

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

The City of Saskatoon is seeking community input on the North Downtown Master Plan which aims to intensify the residential, commercial, recreational and retail opportunities in the downtown area and establish a framework for development to support the City as it grows to a population of 500,000 residents.

Please join us at our “Come and Go” Open House event:

Wednesday, June 11, 2014
TCU Place – Salon E
35 – 22^nd Street
3:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Drop in to view displays and provide comments or plan to attend a presentation and discussion at 3:30 and 6:00 p.m.

The North Downtown Master Plan will guide the development of an exciting new neighbourhood in the heart of the City, which includes former rail yards and additional lands bounded by Idylwyld Drive, 33rd Street, First Avenue and 24th Street.  The envisioned North Downtown will be a lively residential and mixed-use neighbourhood that will feature a network of green and open spaces and promotes sustainable living.  A draft final plan reflecting input from a series of community consultations will be presented.

Materials and information presented will also be available on the City’s website following the public meeting.  Detailed information and updates on these initiatives are available at www.saskatoon.ca  and look under “N” for North Downtown Master Plan.

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: June 5, 2014
                                           

IDYLWYLD DRIVE, JUNE 6-7

Beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, June 6, the following lane restrictions will be in place on Idylwyld Drive while crews repair the guard rails.

Friday, June 6 – 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

- Idylwyld Drive northbound median (inside) lane will be closed between 39th Street and 44th Street. 

Saturday, June 7 – 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

- Idylwyld Drive northbound median (inside) lane will be closed between 39th Street and 44th Street.
- Idylwyld Drive southbound median (inside) lane will be closed between 44th Street and Circle Drive.

The restrictions will be taken down and reset each day.

4TH AVENUE FROM 21ST STREET TO 20TH STREET, JUNE 6

Beginning at 5:30 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 4th Avenue southbound lanes and the northbound median (inside) lane will be closed from 21st Street to 20th Street to accommodate the SIIT Annual President’s Breakfast. The road is expected to reopen by 11:30 a.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! 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.

For Immediate Release: June 5, 2014
                                             

Today the City of Saskatoon highlighted steps it is taking to build better roads and ensure this season’s patching, resurfacing and paving efforts last over a longer term. 

“With the road construction season now underway, it’s important for people to know that we’re not just building better roads.  The new funding for road rehabilitation will extend the life of our roadways and residential streets,” says Mike Gutek, Director of Major Projects at the City of Saskatoon. “We are resurfacing 178 lane kilometres of road this summer and drivers will start to see a big improvement over the next few years as funding levels increase.”

Measuring the time a road will be used from the beginning to the end of its life (known as a “lifecycle”) helps to determine the type and frequency of preservation treatments the roadway will require to maximize its life, rather than just building it and using it until it wears out. This lifecycle assessment balances the life of materials with the most effective preservation treatments.

“Treating roadways during their lifecycle is key to protecting our investment,” Gutek explains. “We want to catch a road before it fails, creating a network of better roads, in better condition, for a longer period of time.  The concept is essentially the same as maintaining your house; you replace your shingles before the roof leaks and you plan to paint your siding before it deteriorates and starts peeling.”

As road construction proceeds this year, new design features such as drainage layers to protect roads from moisture damage are being introduced.

The City will also introduce a new Roadway Preservation Funding plan to address road conditions earlier in their lifecycle, using the latest preservation techniques and treatments that are the most time and cost-effective.

 “With a properly funded rehabilitation program, we can move past temporary fixes and get to the root of the problem,” says Gutek. “Our proactive approach this year will result in better roads today and tomorrow.”

Saskatoon’s most aggressive program of road construction, maintenance and rehabilitation ever is now underway with over $50 million targeted to projects ranging from major roadwork to residential streets and sidewalks. Almost half ($23.4M) of this budget is dedicated to improving our road network.  This is an increase in funding of 79 per cent dedicated to road preservation compared to $13.06 million in 2013, allowing us to apply treatments to 178 lane kilometres, versus 78 lane kilometres in 2013, which is about the same distance as from Saskatoon to Kindersley.

Residents can view a list of the City’s 2014 construction projects at saskatoon.ca by clicking “Building Better Roads”.

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

To improve understanding of backyard composting, the City of Saskatoon (City) has partnered with the Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council (SWRC) to launch a backyard composting research project, entitled “Dishing the Dirt.”  Not only does backyard composting divert waste from the landfill and reduce greenhouse gases, it also generates a valuable soil amendment that can be used on residents’ lawns and gardens to promote soil health and reduce watering needs.  One household alone can reduce 250-350 kilograms of waste every year by backyard composting.

Over the next year, 23 different composting systems will be tested by volunteers in Saskatoon and Regina to evaluate their level of ease, effectiveness and accessibility.  By studying these systems, the aim is to determine which systems work best for different types of households and to make it easier for residents who are interested in backyard composting.

“It is our hope that the results of the Dishing the Dirt program will help encourage backyard composting in Saskatoon,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental & Corporate Initiatives.  “The program also complements the City’s other composting efforts, which all play an important role in waste reduction and diversion.”

On Wednesday, June 4th, media was invited to attend the Dishing the Dirt launch to learn about the backyard composting systems, meet some of the research participants and meet with representatives from SWRC and the City.

“Compostable materials make up between 30 and 50 percent of the waste stream,” says Joanne Fedyk, SWRC Executive Director.  “We’re so pleased to have partners like the Cities of Saskatoon and Regina who are in support of increasing the number of backyard composters and diverting this valuable material from the waste stream.”

In addition to providing support for the Dishing the Dirt program, the City provides a number of composting services for residents:

Compost Bin Rebates:
The City has a limited number of $20 rebates available to Saskatoon residents who purchase a compost bin or rain barrel from a Saskatoon retailer in 2014.

Master Composters:
The City supported the SWRC’s Master Composter training again in 2014.  These trained Master Composters offer free home visits for residents who have questions or would like to start a backyard compost of their own.

Compost Depots:
Residents may take their leaves, grass, sod, topsoil, and non-elm branches, stumps and tree trimmings to the City’s compost depots free of charge.  Since 2006, the compost depots have generated more than 16,000 cubic metres of Class A compost.  This has increased landfill diversion by nearly 15 percent over the last seven years and saved the Saskatoon Landfill approximately 400,000 cubic metres of airspace.  In 2013 alone, 21,820 tonnes of materials were accepted at the City compost depots (from residential and commercial haulers).  Composting this material instead of taking it to the landfill reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 5,000 tonnes CO2e.

Compost Sale Saturdays:
Residents may purchase compost and mulch (woodchips) for their lawns and gardens during Compost Sale Saturdays.  The sales have been very popular; the three spring sales brought in hundreds of residents.  The next events are planned for the fall.

Be Water Wise:
The City’s Be Water Wise campaign encourages residents to reduce water use in their homes and yards.  Using compost and mulch conserves water and keeps our lawns and gardens healthy.  For details and water conservation tips, visit www.saskatoon.ca and click on “B” for “Be Water Wise”.

Greet Cart Collection Program:
The Green Cart Collection Program was expanded in 2014.  Currently, it services over 3,550 residents.  Service includes bi-weekly pickup of unbagged leaves, grass clippings and non-woody yard vegetation from early May until early November.

Food Waste Collection Program:
The City is examining options and next steps for developing a food-waste collection program for residents.

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.

Five municipalities in the Saskatoon region are responding to growth by forming a new working group called the Saskatoon North Partnership for Growth (P4G), and creating a Regional Plan.

“We have a long history of working together in this region, and P4G is another example of our strong regional partnerships,” says Alan Wallace, Director of Planning and Development.

P4G is made up of political leaders and key administrators from the Cities of Saskatoon, Martensville, Warman, the Rural Municipality of Corman Park and the Town of Osler.

A report will be on the public City Council agenda later this afternoon.  It highlights that P4G will hire a consultant this fall to help create a Regional Plan by mid-2016.  The goal of the Regional Plan is to ensure each of the five municipalities can benefit from growth opportunities, increase efficiencies and reduce costs by working together.

“By working together and creating a Regional Plan, we will help our region to be ready for growth so that everyone can enjoy economic prosperity and a good quality of life,” says Bonnie Gorelitza, Planning Manager for the City of Martensville.

The Regional Plan will consist of plans for land use, transportation, and servicing.  It will also outline the funding strategies needed to implement the Regional Plan and proposed new governance and administrative structures for the region.

The budget for the Regional Plan project is $926,000, including the cost of a consultant and a dedicated Project Manager from P4G.

The Saskatoon area is one of the fastest-growing regions in Canada.  Recent estimates indicate it grew by approximately 4 percent over the past year and could reach a population of 500,000 within 20 years.

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.

Immediate Release: June 4, 2014

COLLEGE DRIVE WESTBOUND, JUNE 5-10

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 5, crews will begin paving sections of College Drive westbound. The work will be done in phases and the crews will move along the roadway section by section with the project expected to last 6 days.

The work is scheduled to progress in the following sequence:

- College Drive westbound curb (outside) lane from the railroad track to McKercher Drive on ramp
- College Drive westbound curb (outside) lane from McKercher Drive on ramp to Central Avenue
- College Drive westbound median (inside) lane from the railroad track to Circle Drive overpass
- College Drive westbound curb (outside) lane from Central Avenue to Circle Drive underpass and College Drive westbound on ramp onto Circle Drive.

One lane on College Drive westbound will remain open at all times. Crews will be working around the clock to accelerate the length of construction and minimize impact to traffic.

Please watch for Traffic Detour alerts at Saskatoon.ca for up-to-date information on specific road restrictions in this area.

MILLAR AVENUE BETWEEN 46TH & 47TH STREETS, JUNE 5

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 5, Millar Avenue northbound lanes and the southbound median lane will be closed between 46th Street East and 47th Street East while crews repair a sanitary sewer connection.

The road is expected to reopen by 5:00 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! 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.

For Immediate Release: June 3, 2014
 

HIGHWAY 16 TO CIRCLE DRIVE NORTHBOUND RAMP, JUNE 4  

Beginning at 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 4, Highway 16 westbound ramp to Circle Drive northbound will be closed while crews repair cracks in the road. 

The ramp is expected to reopen by 7:00 p.m. the same day. 

COLLEGE DRIVE WESTBOUND CURB LANE, JUNE 4-6 

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 4, College Drive westbound curb (outside) lane will be closed at St Thomas More College between Bottomley Road and Wiggins Road to accommodate construction work. The road will re-open by 3:30 p.m. each day. 

The restrictions are expected to last 3 days and will be taken down and reset daily to minimize disruption to peak hour traffic. 

7TH AVENUE & 33RD STREET RAIL BRIDGE UNDERPASS, JUNE 4-5 

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 4, the following restrictions will be in place on 7th Avenue while crews add anti-pigeon netting to the underside of the CP Rail bridge: 

Wednesday, June 4 - 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

- 7th Avenue northbound will be closed between Lauriston Street and 33rd Street.
- Access to local traffic will be maintained 

Thursday, June 5 – 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

- 7th Avenue southbound will be closed between 33rd Street and Lauriston Street
- Access to local traffic will be maintained  

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! 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.

51ST STREET EASTBOUND, JUNE 3-5

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 3, 51st Street eastbound median (inside) lane will be closed between Wentz Avenue and Cleveland Avenue while crews work on a sanitary sewer line. Turning within the work zone will be restricted.

The work is expected to take 3 days.

2ND AVENUE AND 25TH STREET OVERNIGHT, JUNE 3

Beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 3, the following restrictions will be in place at the intersection of 2nd Avenue and 25th Street while crews work on a watermain valve:

- 25th Street eastbound median (inside) lane and left turn bay will be closed
- 25th Street westbound left turn bay to 2nd Avenue southbound will be closed
- 2nd Avenue southbound through traffic will be restricted; turning onto 25th Street will be maintained.
- 2nd Avenue northbound left turn bay to 25th Street westbound will be closed.  

To minimize disruption to traffic the work will take place overnight with the restrictions expected to be lifted by 6:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 4.

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! 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.

The City of Saskatoon (City), in partnership with the Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) and Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI), wishes to meet with Aboriginal residents and governments, First Nation land holders, and other interested citizens to provide an overview of the Aboriginal programs and services currently offered, and to seek input to ensure they best meet the needs of the community as Saskatoon is home to an increasing Aboriginal population. Topics will include areas such as affordable housing, economic development, urban reserves, recreation, Aboriginal employment, and future city development.  Key staff will be at the meeting to introduce themselves, answer questions, and gather feedback.

Urban Aboriginal Community Gathering
Thursday, June 12, 2014
5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Saskatoon Inn
2002 Airport Drive, Saskatoon

Please R.S.V.P. to urbanaboriginalcommunity@saskatoon.ca or call 306-975-8066.  Meeting information is also available at www.shapingsaskatoon.ca.

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

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For Immediate Release: June 17, 2014

Everyone is invited to the 40^th Annual Civic Pancake Breakfast on Thursday, June 19 between 7:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. in Civic Square (23^rd Street between 3^rd and 4^th Avenues). The cost is $5.00 per plate (includes pancakes, sausage, coffee or juice) with proceeds going to the United Way.

The Civic Pancake Breakfast is a zero waste event with compostable, recyclable or reusable supplies.  This is the sixth year in a row that the breakfast will be a zero waste event.

Local celebrities will be serving breakfast.  This year we are excited to once again have the Obstacle Water Relay race!  Free live entertainment will be provided throughout the morning.

Save the date!  Come out this Thursday morning and enjoy this fun annual event rain or shine – under the tent!

For more information on the 40^th Annual Civic Pancake Breakfast, visit www.saskatoon.ca and click on “P” for Pancake Breakfast.

 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.

SPADINA CRESCENT BETWEEN 20TH STREET & 3RD AVENUE, MAY 31-JUNE 5

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 31, Spadina Crescent will be closed between 20th Street and 3rd Avenue to accommodate the Children’s Festival. 

The restrictions will be in place until Thursday, June 5, when the road is expected to reopen by 9:00 a.m.

The City thanks everyone for their patience.

51ST STREET EASTBOUND INTERSECTIONS AT FAITHFULL AVENUE & MILLAR AVENUE, JUNE 1

Beginning at 5:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 1, the intersections of 51st Street and Faithfull Avenue and 51st Street and Millar Avenue will have the following restrictions while crews work on catch basins and man holes:

- 51st Street eastbound curb (outside) lane will be closed approaching Faithfull Avenue
- 51st Street eastbound right turn lane to Faithfull Avenue southbound will be closed
- 51st Street eastbound  curb and median lane will be closed approaching Millar Avenue
- 51st Street eastbound right turn lane to Millar Avenue southbound will be closed
- Millar Avenue southbound curb lane and northbound right turn lane to 51st Street eastbound will be closed

The restrictions are expected to be lifted by 10:00 a.m. the same day.

25TH STREET EASTBOUND CLOSED AT 3RD AVENUE INTERSECTION, JUNE 1

Beginning at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 1, the following lane restrictions will be in place at the intersection of 25th Street and 3rd Avenue while Sasktel works at a manhole.

- 25th Street eastbound lanes closed at the intersection of 3rd Avenue
- 3rd Avenue southbound reduced to one lane approaching 25th Street. Turning from 3rd Avenue to 25th Street eastbound and westbound will be maintained.
- 3rd Avenue northbound and 25th Street westbound traffic will not be effected

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

VARIOUS RESTRICTIONS NEAR SHAW CENTRE FOR TRIATHLON, JUNE 1

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 1, the following road restrictions will be in place to accommodate a triathlon event.

- 22nd Street West eastbound curb (outside) lane will be closed between Betts Avenue and Hart Road
- 22nd Street West westbound left turn lanes onto Hart Road southbound will be closed
- 22nd Street West eastbound right turn bay onto Hart Road southbound will be closed
- Hart Road eastbound will be closed at Bowlt Crescent
- Shillington Crescent westbound curb (outside) lane will be closed between Shillington Crescent and Betts Avenue
- Betts Avenue northbound curb (outside) lane will be closed between Shillington Crescent and 22nd Street West

Access to local traffic will be maintained. The restrictions will be lifted by 12:00 Noon, 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! 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.

The current power outage, today, May 30, that is affecting approximately 100 households in the Avalon neighbourhood is expected to continue for six to eight hours (until 10 pm to midnight) as crews work to repair damage to four power poles in the area caused by a vehicle accident.

Hourly updates on the repair will be provided through Power Outage Service Alerts on the City of Saskatoon website (Saskatoon.ca).

Residents can also phone Saskatoon Light & Power at 306-975-2621.

The City of Saskatoon thanks residents for their patience as we work as quickly as possible to restore your power.

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.

Residents are invited to cool off this summer at any of the 17 spray pads located around the city!  Summer spray pads will open for the season on Sunday, June 1, 2014, at 10 a.m. and will be operational daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through to Monday, September 1, 2014.

The opening of Silverwood Heights Spray Pad, located in WJL Harvey Park (290 Russell Road), will be delayed due to maintenance repairs.  For updates on the scheduled opening, please refer to the interactive map at www.saskatoon.ca/go/playgrounds.

Please note, spray pad sites located on or near school grounds have timers and are set to turn spray features off during recess and lunch breaks.  Shut-off times will vary according to individual school schedules.

To find a spray pad location near you, please visit www.saskatoon.ca/go/playgrounds or call 306-975-3378.

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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IDYLWYLD DRIVE TO 25TH STREET EASTBOUND, JUNE 2-23

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, the right turn lane from Idylwyld Drive northbound to 25th Street eastbound will be closed to traffic as crews begin Phase 1 of streetscaping for the 25th Street Extension. Eastbound traffic will be detoured to 24th Street.

The work is expected to take three weeks.

33RD STREET EASTBOUND FROM STEEVES AVENUE TO HUGHES DRIVE, JUNE 2-4

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, the new 33rd Street eastbound lanes from Steeves Avenue to the merging point approaching Hughes Drive will be closed while crews work on street lighting on the new road.

The old 33rd Street eastbound median (inside) lane will also be closed from the merging point to Hughes Drive.

A detour will be in place. The work is expected to last 3 days. 

SPADINA CRESCENT FROM BALMORAL STREET TO WINDSOR STREET, JUNE 2

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 2, Spadina crescent will be closed in both directions between Balmoral Street and Windsor Street to accommodate a house move. The road is expected to reopen by 11:00 a.m. the same day. A detour will be in place.

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.

Great things are happening through the improved Street Sweeping program this spring! Enhancements were added this year to the spring blitz, with funding through the dedicated road levy, based on learning from similar programs in the fall and winter.

“With the city growing so quickly, the way we operate our street maintenance programs is changing to provide the best service possible,” says Pat Hyde, Director of Public Works. “We want to thank residents for their patience and feedback, resulting in some great programs and a clean city.”

New this year are the yellow No Parking signs used to notify drivers of scheduled sweeping dates. Compliance from residents moving their vehicles to accommodate street sweeping allows the City to focus on cleaning the entire roadway quickly and efficiently. To date, parking compliance has been increasing as people become familiar with the signage. 

A new process for cleaning Circle Drive involving up to 18 vehicles at a time was introduced this spring. Additional pilot vehicles and signage allow the City to focus on safety of the workers and drivers. “The work is only done at night to minimize interference with traffic and we’re pleased to report that the program is 26 per cent complete,” says Hyde.

Also new this year is evening sweeping in the school zones.  This program begins June 2 and residents will be notified in advance with yellow No Parking signs.  The area between the School Zone signs is not swept during the daytime accelerated residential street sweeping for the safety of the students and visitors to the schools. 

The street sweeping schedule, Frequently Asked Questions and map of neighbourhoods is available at saskatoon.ca under the Building Better Roads icon. 

If wet or windy weather delays sweeping, the scheduled neighbourhood will be rescheduled and new No Parking signs will be posted in advance to notify residents and the schedule will be updated on the website.

Drivers are reminded to be patient and to drive carefully when they encounter slow moving street-sweeping vehicles.  You may also contact the 24-hour Street Sweeping Hotline at 306-975-2476 or streetsweep@saskatoon.ca.

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

The Saskatoon Field House experienced some flooding in the track area following the overnight rain storm.  The main field and track will be closed for the rest of the day and as a result, all programs scheduled on the track must be cancelled.

The weight room, childcare, fitness dance studio, multi-purpose room and meeting room #2 will remain open to the public.  All programs on the second floor will proceed as scheduled.

The City of Saskatoon and the Saskatoon Field House thank patrons for their cooperation.

The Lakewood Civic Centre, Shaw Centre, Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre, Lawson Civic Centre, Cosmo Civic Centre and the Fitness Circuit & Terry Fox Track will maintain regular hours during this time.

For information on the programming and services affected, please contact the Saskatoon Field House at 306-975-3354 or visit drop-in online at www.saskatoon.ca/go/dropinonline.

For programming information, please refer to www.saskatoon.ca and look under “L” for Leisure Centre Drop-In Schedules.

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: May 29, 2014

The City of Saskatoon will launch new.saskatoon.ca to kick off public engagement activities for the new Saskatoon website redesign.  This site will be used as the hub to communicate about the progress of the project and to gather input from residents.

“Public involvement is key to a successful redesign of the City of Saskatoon website,” says the City’s Website Project Manager, Rob Gilhuly.  “We wanted to create an online space that provides users with the information they need to quickly get involved and participate in the website development process,” Gilhuly says.

To help build a better website, the City will be asking for feedback at multiple stages throughout the website development process. Residents will be able to participate in decisions relating to navigation, design, usability and online services.  In addition to gathering input, new.saskatoon.ca will also be revealing the new website as it’s being built.

Saskatoon.ca will be designed to provide better online service to residents.  Ensuring that residents’ needs and expectations are reflected in the final result is critical to the project’s success.

The City encourages all residents to visit the project engagement site, new.saskatoon.ca for project updates and to get involved.

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: Wednesday, May 28, 2014

The following restrictions will be in place overnight Thursday, May 29, and Friday, May 30 while crews inspect underground utilities. The restrictions will be lifted immediately following the completion of the utility inspections and may not be required for the entire timeframe listed.

- 8th Street eastbound closed from Broadway Avenue to Landsdowne Avenue. Two-way traffic will be accommodated in the westbound lanes

- Broadway Avenue northbound curb (outside) lane will be closed approaching 8th Street

To minimize disruption to traffic the work is scheduled to take place from 11:00 p.m. to 6:30 a.m., 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! 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.

In light of recently published comments, the City must stress that affordability and efficiency in the City recycling program continues to be our focus.

“The City must stress it is not considering increased fees as a result of some people stealing recyclables from Loraas blue bins,” says Brenda Wallace, Director of Environmental & Corporate Initiatives.  “The City and Loraas along with the Saskatoon Police Service are working together on solutions.”

The issue which concerns the City is the possibility of coordinated criminal activity: an organized effort of a few individuals to systematically raid blue bins of high-value material such as deposit beverage containers. Loraas depends on this high-value material as a source of revenue for the program, so they can continue to sustain a successful and affordable program for citizens of Saskatoon.

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 heavy, super charged rain storm early Monday evening left many city streets and intersections flooded and looking like flowing rivers. 

Water on our city streets does not always indicate something is wrong, but actually is all part of a functional and cost effective storm water management system.  The City’s storm water system is designed to carry water along the streets and gutters during significant rain storms as what was experienced on Monday.

When flowing water occurs along the road surface we ask that residents avoid these areas.  Flooded streets can hide popped manhole covers and create a dangerous situation.  Try to avoid entering a flooded street. Water in the streets will often drain very quickly following a heavy rain so we ask residents to be patient. 

If your property is next to a street that is used for storm water in a significant rain event, consider protecting low lying areas such as windows and doors that may be at risk of flooding.

If you see manhole covers that have popped off during a rain storm, please call our Customer Service Dispatch at 306-975-2476.

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

 

 

For Release: Tuesday, May 27, 2014

25TH STREET & 2ND AVENUE INTERSECTION, MAY 27 - 28

Overnight restrictions will be in place from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, and Wednesday, May 28, at the intersection of 25th Street and 2nd Avenue while crews work on water main valves. 

Tuesday, May 27

- 25th Street eastbound median (inside) lane will be closed approaching the intersection
- Left turn to 2nd Avenue northbound from 25th Street eastbound will be maintained
- 2nd Avenue northbound curb (outside) lane will be closed approaching the intersection 

Wednesday, May 28

- 25th Street eastbound median lane and left turn bay lane closed approaching the intersection
- 25th Street westbound left turn bay to 2nd Avenue southbound will be closed
- 2nd Avenue southbound through traffic will be restricted
- 2nd Avenue northbound left turn bay to 25th Street westbound will be closed

To minimize disruption to traffic this work will take place overnight.

CENTRAL AVENUE BETWEEN 111TH & 112TH STREETS, MAY 28

Beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, the following restrictions will be in place on Central Avenue while crews work on sanitary sewer connections.

- Central Avenue southbound lanes will be closed between 111th Street and 112th Street. A detour will be in place.
- Central Avenue northbound median (inside) lane will be closed between 111th Street and 112th Street.

The work is expected to last one day.

14TH STREET BETWEEN CIRCLE DRIVE AND ARLINGTON AVENUE, MAY 28-31

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 14th Street will be closed between Arlington Avenue and the southbound off ramp from Circle Drive while crews resurface the road.

The work is expected to last 4 days.

All restrictions are expected to be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Slow down, pay attention and respect the 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.

For the first time in recent history, the City will be ticketing and relocating vehicles for street sweeping in the Downtown/Partnership Business Improvement District (BID).  Sweepers have already been through the area as part of the Spring Sweeping Blitz program, which is designed to go around parked vehicles.  This year, with increased funding through the dedicated road levy, all four BIDs will be provided with one full curb-to-curb sweep.  In order to accomplish this, tickets will be issued for violators and their vehicles will be relocated to a nearby road.

In order to provide alternate parking for downtown patrons and residents, Downtown will be swept over two evenings, beginning with the Streets. 

White No Parking signs are being posted within the Downtown BID bordered by 25th Street, Spadina Crescent, 19th Street West and Idylwyld Drive North:

- Along the Streets for overnight sweeping on Wednesday (parking enforcement begins Thursday at 2:00 a.m.)

- Along the Avenues for overnight sweeping on Thursday (parking enforcement begins Friday at 2:00 a.m.)

- Due to high-density residential parking on 5th Avenue and 6th Avenue between 22nd Street and 25th Street, these roads will not be swept as part of the Downtown BID sweep, but will be scheduled for sweeping on another day.  Signs will be posted in advance to notify residents.

There are permanent street maintenance signs mounted on posts (as pictured) that outline parking restrictions from 2:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. for the Streets and Avenues throughout the area, but because this program is new, we are supplementing them with the white paper No Parking signs (as pictured).  The temporary signs have a yellow card attached to them with contact information for the Street Sweeping Hotline, so residents may call 306-975-2476 for the location of their vehicle.  Drivers may also use the Find My Vehicle! database by clicking on the Building Better Roads logo at saskatoon.ca. 

   

More information about the Spring Street Sweeping and the Accelerated Residential Street Sweeping programs will be available on Thursday, May 26 at the weekly Building Better Roads media briefing.

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

 

Yesterday’s Event

Late Monday afternoon Saskatoon experienced an unusual rain event for this time of May; between 15 and 20 mm of rain fell across the city between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m.  Peak intensities of 100 mm per hour were recorded which statistically makes the storm greater than a one-in-ten year event.

“In comparison, a similar amount fell early in the morning Monday but was spread over a longer period of time which is why there was no flooding then,” says Andrew Hildebrandt, Senior Storm Water Engineer.

Most of the issues from yesterday’s storm were related to surface flooding.  Newer neighbourhoods are designed so that the pipe, pond, and surface drainage systems can handle severe storms, but older neighbourhoods were not designed in this manner.

“We know there continues to be storm water problem areas in a handful of locations around Saskatoon, and the flooding in those instances is usually confined to the roadway,” Hildebrandt says. 

“We discovered some of the ponding was the result of debris covering catch basins and in most cases, as soon as Public Works crews cleared the blockages, the basins drained as the water made its way to storm retention ponds and to the river.

The high water volume caused some manhole covers to come off which is also an anticipated occurrence of the planned design.  This is why the City advises caution and – if possible – to avoid flooded streets as they could be hiding an open manhole.”

Sanitary Sewer System

The city’s storm sewer system handles rainwater drainage, while the sanitary sewer system handles domestic sewage.

Over the past number of years, the City has constructed a number of infrastructure projects in order to protect homes from flooding due to sanitary sewage backups. 

“The City’s focus has been on protecting private property from sanitary sewer flooding,” Hildebrandt says.

Super-pipes and new lift stations have been installed to reduce the risk of the sanitary sewer flooding. In prior years, heavy rain events allowed storm water to get into the sanitary system, causing back-ups and property damage.

No reports of sanitary sewage flooding have been reported due to yesterday’s storm.

Additional information

- Extra Public Works staff was called in to respond to reports of flooding.

- Crews responded to reported locations and replaced manhole covers that were displaced last night.

- The majority of the basins drained within a short period, as designed.  Crews inspected locations reported flooded, some catch basins were covered with debris which was cleared away. 

- Inspections continue today for locations that were not attended to last night. 

- Public Works received 73 calls for flooded catch basins or other drainage issues (The City has approximately 12,000 catch basins)

- Public Works received 37 reports of displaced manhole covers (The City has 8,800 storm sewer manholes).

- Compost Depots were closed due to weather around 5:00 p.m. last night.  Both locations have been open today.

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 heavy, super charged rain storm early Monday evening left many city streets and intersections flooded and looking like flowing rivers. 

Water on our city streets does not always indicate something is wrong, but actually is all part of a functional and cost effective storm water management system.  The City’s storm water system is designed to carry water along the streets and gutters during significant rain storms as what was experienced on Monday

When flowing water occurs along the road surface we ask that residents avoid these areas.  Flooded streets can hide popped manhole covers and create a dangerous situation.  Try to avoid entering a flooded street. Water in the streets will often drain very quickly following a heavy rain so we ask residents to be patient. 

If your property is next to a street that is used for storm water in a significant rain event, consider protecting low lying areas such as windows and doors that may be at risk of flooding.

If you see manhole covers that have popped off during a rain storm, please call our Customer Service Dispatch at 306-975-2476.

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

 

 

 

 

 

The City of Saskatoon and in motion are pleased to announce a partnership with local fitness providers to offer free outdoor fitness classes this summer in the downtown area.  These fitness classes will be offered in Kiwanis Park North on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:05 p.m. to 12:50 p.m., June through August.  Visit www.in-motion.ca for more information. 

Participating fitness providers include:

• How to Run (June 3, 5, 10, and 12) provided by Craven S.P.O.R.T. Services – Registration begins May 15 by emailing css@cravensportservices.ca
• Pilates Core Fusion (June 17, 19, 24, and 26) provided by Lead Pilates – Registration begins May 30 by calling 306-382-7447
• Running/Walking Group (July 1, 3, 8, and 10) provided by Motion Fitness – Registration begins June 15 by emailing events@motionfitness.ca
• Bridge City Boot Camp (July 15, 17, 22, and 24) provided by Bridge City Fitness – Registration begins June 30 by emailing carla@bridgecityfitness.com
• Yoga (July 29 and 31; August 5 and 7) provided by Namaskar Yoga – Registration begins July 15 by emailing bobbi.nordal@gmail.com
• Urban Poling (August 12, 14, 19, and 21) provided by City of Saskatoon Recreation and Sport – Registration begins July 30 by calling 306-975-3354

Residents, visitors, and those working downtown are also encouraged to meet friends and co-workers at the many great locations along the Meewasin Valley trails, and stay “in motion” throughout the summer.

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 heavy rain storm early Monday evening will not impact the drinking water in the city. Storm water and drinking water systems are two totally different sets of pipes – they are not interconnected.

If residents have any water concerns, please call our Customer Service Dispatch at 306-975-2476.

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

For Release: May 26, 2014

51ST STREET LANE RESTRICTIONS, MAY 27

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, the following restriction will be in place on 51st Street while crews perform maintenance work on the roadway in preparation for resurfacing.

- 51st Street eastbound median and centre lanes will be closed between Millar Avenue and Warman Road.
- 51st Street westbound median lane will be closed between Warman Road and Millar Avenue.
- Left turning into Co-op entrance from 51st Street eastbound will be restricted.

The work is expected to last one day.

20TH STREET EAST EASTBOUND RESTRICTIONS, MAY 27 

Starting at 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 20th Street East eastbound will be closed between 2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue while crews move a crane. The road is expected to reopen by 1:00 p.m.

COLLEGE DRIVE WESTBOUND RESTRICTIONS, MAY 27-30 

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, College Drive westbound curb (outside) lane will be closed at St Thomas More College to accommodate construction work.

The lane will reopen at 5:30 p.m. the same day. The restrictions will be reset at the same time each day. 

BROADWAY AVENUE CURB LANE RESTRICTIONS, MAY 27-30

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, Broadway Avenue northbound and southbound curb lanes will be closed between 12th Street and Saskatchewan Crescent while SaskEnergy works in the area.  

The road will reopen by 3:00 p.m. the same day. The restrictions will be reset each day to accommodate rush hour traffic.

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

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, 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.

 

The heavy rain storm early Monday evening will not impact the drinking water in the city. Storm water and drinking water systems are two totally different sets of pipes – they are not interconnected.

If residents have any water concerns, please call our Customer Service Dispatch at 306-975-2476.

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

 

 

A super charged, heavy and sustained downpour over the supper hour has resulted in a surge in the City’s storm system. The City is aware of manhole covers that may have popped off from the heavy rain. Use caution and reduce speed when driving through deep puddles; avoid driving through flooded roadways and walking through deep puddles if possible.

Call Dispatch at 306-975-2476 to report any flood related concerns. The City is experiencing a high volume of calls, and thanks residents for their patience. 

Available crews have been brought in to clear flooded roadways and to repair manhole covers as quickly as possible. 

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

 -30-

 

 

 

 

A super charged, heavy and sustained downpour over the supper hour has resulted in a surge in the City’s storm system. The City is aware of manhole covers that may have popped off from the heavy rain. Use caution and reduce speed when driving through deep puddles; avoid driving through flooded roadways and walking through deep puddles if possible.

Call Dispatch at 306-975-2476 to report any flood related concerns. The City is experiencing a high volume of calls, and thanks residents for their patience. 

We have brought in available crews to clear flooded roadways and to repair manhole covers as quickly as possible.

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

 

-30-

 

 

 

 

The heavy rain storm early Monday evening will not impact the drinking water in the city. Storm water and drinking water systems are two totally different sets of pipes – they are not interconnected.

If residents have any water concerns, please call our Customer Service Dispatch at 306-975-2476.

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

 

The City confirms that no contaminated water leaked into the river as a result of a personal vehicle entering a construction site and damaging a valve at the Water Treatment Plant on Spadina Crescent Friday evening.  An early morning report from the Fire Department indicated the potential for a ditch to overflow and leak into the river, but our staff had all valves turned off well before the ditch was full to prevent any overflow.

There were no workers on site at the time of the incident.  Clean-up at the scene is still underway and the extent of damage is yet to be determined.  

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.

CIRCLE DRIVE MEDIAN LANE RESTRICTIONS, MAY 24-25

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2014, there will be various lane restrictions on Circle Drive while crews repair the guardrails.

Saturday, May 24 - 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- Circle Drive eastbound and westbound median (inside) lanes will be closed under the Attridge Drive overpass.

Sunday, May 25 - 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- Circle Drive northbound and southbound median (inside) lanes will be closed between College Drive and 8th Street East.

8TH STREET EAST LANE RESTRICTIONS, MAY 25

Sunday, May 25 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- 8th Street East westbound lanes from Acadia Drive to the Centre Mall Entrance will be closed while crews pave utility cuts.
- Westbound drivers should use 14th Street or Taylor Street as a detour.

Sunday May 25 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

- 8th Street East eastbound median (inside) and centre lanes will be closed between Broadway Avenue and Landsdowne Avenue while crews inspect underground utilities.

IDYLWYLD DRIVE LANE RESTRICTIONS, MAY 25

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday May 25, 2014, the following restrictions will be in place on sections of Idylwyld Drive while crews work on streetlight poles:

-Idylwyld Drive northbound off-ramp curb (outside) lane to 1st Avenue North northbound will be closed from 7:00 a.m. to Noon
- Idylwyld Drive southbound curb (outside) lane will be closed between 20th Street and the Sid Buckwold Bridge from 8:30 a.m. to Noon.

VARIOUS ROAD RESTRICTIONS FOR MARATHON EVENT, MAY 25

To accommodate the Saskatchewan Marathon event on Sunday, May 25, 2014 from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., no parking signs and traffic restrictions will be in place along marathon routes. The main road restrictions will include:

- Full closure of Taylor Street between St. Henry Avenue and Victoria Avenue
- Broadway Avenue southbound curb lane between the Broadway Bridge and 11^th Street
- Victoria Avenue northbound between 11^th Street and Taylor Street
- Spadina Crescent northbound from 20^th Street to Ravine Drive including northbound exit from University Bridge
- 1st Avenue southbound at 20th Street

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area during the event and watch for participants and officials. The City thanks everyone for their patience.

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

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, 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.

With changes to the Accelerated Residential Street Sweeping Program this year - such as enforcing parking restrictions, sweeping  streets curb-to-curb without vehicles, delivering a two-phase program for many neighbourhoods - created some unknown variables. Two weeks into the program and in the spirit of continuous improvement, the schedule needs to be adjusted for better efficiency.  

So far we’re pleased with the progress of the program and the city is starting to look much better.  However, when rolling out several new initiatives and the way we do our work has led to unforeseen challenges. As a result of these changes, a few neighbourhoods were not completed and those streets were rescheduled.  

To prevent similar repeats, we  are extending the schedule; and as long as the weather cooperates, we will still be completed earlier than in past years.   

A new schedule is available from saskatoon.ca by clicking on the Building Better Roads link.   

Added sweeping programs include: 

- Circle Drive - started on Tuesday this week. It is expected to be completed within two weeks.
- School Zones - will be swept in the evenings, beginning the week of June 2, 2014.
- Downtown, followed by the Broadway, Sutherland and Riversdale Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) will be swept curb-to-curb  over several evenings. Downtown is tentatively scheduled to begin Sunday, May 25.  Please watch for No Parking signs over the next couple of weeks in these areas and remove your vehicle by the posted day and time. 
- Remaining BIDs are scheduled to receive a curb-to-curb sweep in the evenings, following the work Downtown.

For evening programs, a mixture of yellow sandwich boards, bags on parking metres and paper signs will be used.

A schedule, Frequently Asked Questions and map of neighbourhoods is available at saskatoon.ca under the Building Better Roads icon. 

Drivers are reminded to be patient and to drive carefully when they encounter slow moving street-sweeping vehicles.  You may also contact the 24-hour Street Sweeping Hotline at 306-975-2476 or streetsweep@saskatoon.ca

If poor weather delays sweeping, the neighbourhood will move to the end of the schedule and new No Parking signs will be posted in advance to notify residents.

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

IDYLWYLD DRIVE & 51ST STREET RAMPS, MAY 26 - JUNE 5

Starting at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, May 26, 2014, crews will begin resurfacing the Idylwyld Drive and 51st Street interchange ramps. Crews will move through the interchange section by section with the project expected to take 11 days.

The work is scheduled to progress in the following sequence:

- Idylwyld Drive northbound ramp to 51st Street
- 51st Street westbound ramp to Idylwyld Drive northbound
- Idylwyld Drive southbound ramp to 51st Street
- Avenue C eastbound ramp to Idylwyld Drive southbound
- 51st Street westbound loop to Idylwyld Drive southbound
- 51st Street eastbound loop to Idylwyld Drive northbound
- Idylwyld Drive southbound under the bridge
- Idylwyld Drive northbound under the bridge

Crews will be working around-the-clock to accelerate the length of construction and minimize impact to traffic.

Watch for Traffic Detour alerts at Saskatoon.ca for up-to-date information on road restrictions in this area.

CLARENCE AVENUE SOUTHBOUND CURB LANE, MAY 26-29

Beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 26, 2014, Clarence Avenue southbound curb (outside) lane will be closed between Hilliard Street and Ruth Street while crews repair the sidewalk. The work is expected to last four days.

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

UPDATE: 19TH STREET EASTBOUND, MAY 26-28 *This updates information previously released

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Monday May 26, the 19th Street eastbound curb lane will be closed between 1st Avenue and 2nd Avenue as crews resurface the roadway. The right turn from 19th Street onto 2nd Avenue southbound will be maintained. *Please note: The work is expected to take three days.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, 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.

For Release: Friday, May 22, 2014

As the City continues to monitor the increasing flow of the South Saskatchewan River, because of safety concerns the Fire Department recommends the closure today of the public boat launch until further notice.

The Water Security Agency (WSA) increased outflows from 800 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to 1000 m³/s. This has caused the already heightened water level on the South Saskatchewan River downstream of Gardiner Dam to rise between 25cm to 40 cm.  It’s anticipated that the higher river flows will remain in place for the remainder of May and into June.

“As a result of these conditions, the Fire Department strongly discourages activity on or near the river while the flow rate remains strong,” Assistant Fire Chief Morgan Hackl says.  “When the river is like this, it creates significant safety hazards for people and pets on the river – or along its banks – and for firefighters who may have to get in the river for a rescue.  We know the weekend is expected to be hot, however we’re asking folks to please use common sense, respect nature and stay back from the fast flowing water of the South Saskatchewan.”

This increase in outflow is a proactive release in response to the above normal snowpack in the mountains, above average lake level for this time of year and recent rainfall events in Alberta. No out-of-bank flooding is expected to occur as a result of this operation.

With this planned release and forecasted inflow over the next two weeks, WSA expects to lower the Lake Diefenbaker reservoir to provide additional flood storage in the event of above normal rainfall in late May and June.

The 10-day forecast for stream flows and any other relevant updates will be posted to the WSA’s website at wsask.ca.

In an emergency, call 9-1-1.

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

                          

Repainting road markings are a priority for the City in the spring to help drivers, cyclists and pedestrians stay safe on the roads.  Traditional road paint tends to wear off from winter snow grading, salting and sanding, as well as repeated vehicle traffic.  This year, we are expanding our use of durable road markings, which lasts much longer.

Durable road markings have now been applied to portions of 1st Avenue, Central Avenue, Circle Drive and Preston Avenue, bringing the first phase to an end.  The contractor will return mid-June to begin the next round which includes portions of Preston Avenue, Cumberland Avenue, 51st Street and McOrmond Drive.

Centre lines are now 29 per cent complete; and crosswalk painting is 36 per cent complete.  This past week we painted crosswalks in Willowgrove, Varsity View and Riversdale.

The cost of the annual road painting program is $800,000 per year. In 2014, an additional $500,000 will be spent on durable markings that can last between 7 and 10 years.  Line painting is just one aspect of the City of Saskatoon’s Building Better Roads effort where we are investing nearly $50 million into road-related maintenance, rehabilitation and construction.

City crews paint road markings two to three times each year:

- Lane lines, edge lines and centre lines are painted three times a year,
- Crosswalks are painted at least twice a year, and
- Sharrows, chevrons and parking stall lines are painted once a year.

Road markings are re-painted if they have been removed for repairs or construction.  To minimize traffic disruptions and for the safety of workers, high-traffic streets are painted in the evening. 

“Safety of our staff and others on the road is a key focus for us this construction season,” says Angela Gardiner, Director of Transportation.  “With so much extra work happening on the roads this year, we ask everyone approaching work zones or passing painting vehicles to slow down, pay attention and give workers the room they need to get the job done. If everyone makes safety a priority, we will be able to work through the 2014 construction season safely and successfully.”

Construction season is underway!  For the latest updates and schedules on everything from road repairs and restrictions to street sweeping, go to saskatoon.ca and click on “Building Better Roads”.

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

Saskatoon’s Henk Ruys Soccer Centre has been designated as an Emergency Evacuation Site to shelter approximately 140 evacuees from Stanley Mission First Nation northeast of La Ronge due to smoke from a forest fire in that area.  The evacuees were moved from their community today and are expected to arrive in Saskatoon Thursday evening.
“The City of Saskatoon is ready and will do whatever is necessary to make the evacuees’ stay in Saskatoon as comfortable as possible,” says Cary Humphrey, Director of Recreation & Sport.  “The City anticipates events such as this during forest fire season and for many years has kept evacuations at the forefront of our emergency planning.”

The City of Saskatoon is working with the Canadian Red Cross (lead agency), Ministry of Social Services, Saskatoon Health Region, Henk Ruys Soccer Centre, and Saskatoon Police to mobilize resources in preparation for the evacuees. 
The Stanley Mission First Nation is approximately 460 kilometres northeast of Saskatoon near La Ronge.
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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Starting at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, May 23, 2014, there will be various lane restrictions along 8th Street East between Acadia Drive and the Centre Mall entrance while crews pave utility cuts.

Friday, May 23 – 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- 8th Street East eastbound median (inside) and centre lanes from Acadia Drive to the Centre Mall entrance will be closed.
- Traffic will be maintained in the curb (outside) lane.

Sunday, May 25 – 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

- All westbound lanes from Acadia Drive to the Centre Mall entrance will be closed.
- Westbound drivers should use 14th Street or Taylor Street as a detour.  

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

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, 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.

CY-149

Elk Point is a new proposed residential neighbourhood consisting of 572 acres, and is the second neighbourhood to be developed in the City of Saskatoon’s (City) Blairmore Sector. The proposed neighbourhood is bound on the west by Neault Road, on the north by Claypool Drive, and on the south by 33rd Street West.  It is bound on the southeast by the Dundonald neighbourhood and on the east by the Hampton Village neighbourhood.

The design of the Elk Point neighbourhood has been undertaken with the aim of creating a walkable, well-connected, mixed-use neighbourhood. The design includes a central corridor, roadway and pedestrian network, village centre and village square, and open spaces to create a liveable and vital neighbourhood. The neighbourhood will accommodate a mix of housing options while promoting the use of all modes of transportation.  Upon completion, the neighbourhood will be home to approximately 10,062 residents.

The public is invited to attend a come and go open house to view the proposed Elk Point Neighbourhood Concept Plan.  The open house will provide an opportunity to view the proposal and ask questions to City staff and development partners.

Elk Point Neighbourhood Concept Plan Open House
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
5 - 8 p.m. (come and go)
Hampton Village Free Methodist Church (Multi-Purpose Room)
2930 McClocklin Road

Can’t make the open house?  Please visit www.shapingsaskatoon.ca/discussions to view details of the concept plan and to share your thoughts. 

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 Release: Wednesday, May 21, 2014


The Water Security Agency (WSA) will be increasing outflows over the next few days from 800 cubic metres per second (m³/s) to 1000 m³/s. This will result in the current water level on the South Saskatchewan River downstream of Gardiner Dam rising by approximately 0.25 to 0.4 m.  It’s anticipated that the higher river flows will remain in place for the remainder of May and into June.

This increase in outflow is a proactive release in response to the above normal snowpack in the mountains, above average lake level for this time of year and recent rainfall events in Alberta. No out-of-bank flooding is expected to occur as a result of this operation.

With this planned release and forecasted inflow over the next two weeks, WSA expects to lower the Lake Diefenbaker reservoir to provide additional flood storage in the event of above normal rainfall in late May and June.

The 10-day forecast for stream flows and any other relevant updates will be posted to the WSA’s website at wsask.ca.

Saskatoon Fire Department advises residents to exercise extreme care and caution around the river throughout this period of elevated water levels.  

In an emergency, call 9-1-1.

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

 

22ND STREET & IDYLWYLD DRIVE INTERSECTION, MAY 21

Beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21, 2014, the 22nd Street eastbound curb (outside) lane will be closed approaching Idylwyld Drive. Idylwyld Drive southbound traffic will be limited to three lanes while crews work on manholes.

The work is expected to last 4 hours with the road expected to reopen at 10:00 p.m. 

SPADINA CRESCENT SOUTHBOUND, MAY 22

Beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2014, the southbound lanes of Spadina Crescent will be closed between 33rd Street East and Queen Street while crews repair a catch basin. Access to local traffic will be maintained.

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

UPDATE: 1ST AVENUE NORTH & CIRCLE DRIVE, MAY 20-24

As crews continue to pave sections of 1st Avenue North and Circle Drive there have been some revisions to the timeline and the work will now be completed earlier than expected. The following restrictions will now be in place:

Tuesday, May 20 – Saturday, May 24
- Circle Drive eastbound curb (outside) lane will be closed just east of 1st Avenue North.

Tuesday, May 20 – Saturday, May 24 *This updates information earlier released
- 1st Avenue North northbound lanes between 40th Street East and Circle Drive will be closed. Access to local traffic will be maintained.

Starting 7:00 a.m. Saturday, May 24 *This updates information earlier released
- Circle Drive eastbound curb (outside) and center lane will be closed at the intersection of 1st Avenue North. This work is expected to last one day.

All restrictions are expected to be lifted as indicated, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.

*Project timelines are subject to last minute changes, for the most up-to-date information: 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.

Beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday May 22, the 19th Street eastbound curb lane will be closed between 1st Avenue and 2nd Avenue as crews resurface the roadway. The right turn from 19th Street onto 2nd Avenue southbound will be maintained.

The work is expected to take three days, and the roadway is expected to re-open by 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 24, weather permitting and barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Drivers are reminded to allow extra time when travelling through the orange zone, 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.