News Releases

The Saskatoon Fire Department would like to remind everyone to follow safe practices when purchasing, enjoying, and disposing of fireworks. Bylaw No. 7990 prohibits the discharge of fireworks except on Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day and New Year’s Eve. This Labour Day, Monday, September 3^rd, low-hazard fireworks can only be discharged on private property between the hours of dusk and 11:00 p.m.

Residents and visitors need to familiarize themselves with the risks and obligations associated with fireworks:

• Carefully read and follow the manufacturer instructions,
• Exercise increased caution when handling and discharging any type of firework,
• Choose your location wisely, noting that fireworks can only be discharged on private property,
• Ensure your location is free of overhead obstructions, is clear side-to-side, and is a safe distance from combustible materials,
• Familiarize yourself with the space requirements for each type of firework being discharged,
• Be sure to properly stabilize the firework according to manufacturer directions, and
• Keep in mind that you are solely responsible for any debris that may land on your spectators or adjacent property.

After dusk, when you are ready to discharge the fireworks, ensure that weather conditions are favourable, and always light the fuse of the firework at its tip. Never light or hold a lit firework in your hand. Remember to be extremely careful when discharging fireworks; the debris or smoldering embers could cause injuries, property damage, and/or fires. Always keep a water supply close by.

Wait at least 30 minutes before beginning the clean-up process. Used fireworks and debris should be disposed of in a pail of water. Never try to relight or fix the fuse on fireworks that didn’t go off.

If choosing to enjoy the fireworks display from the South Saskatchewan River, be sure to exercise proper river etiquette by:

• Ensuring your craft is equipped with appropriate markers and lighting after dark,
• Operating your human- or motor-powered craft in a safe manner,
• Maintaining a respectful distance from other river users,
• Not operating any type of craft while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and
• Caring for the environment by properly launching, fueling, starting, and loading your craft.

It is important to remember that you may not be the only craft on the waterway, and to always be aware of your surroundings; this includes monitoring the actions of other river users.

Currently, there is no fire ban in effect for Saskatoon. It is always recommended that residents and visitors celebrate safely at public firework displays that are hosted by a trusted organization. If you choose to observe the fireworks from the South Saskatchewan River, the Saskatoon Fire Department emphasizes the importance of always exercising proper river etiquette. If you choose to celebrate Labour Day by sending off your own fireworks, be sure to follow all safe practices, and only send them off between dusk and 11:00 p.m.

The Saskatoon Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable Labour Day.

 In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

The 2018 Building Better Roads construction season is about two thirds of the way complete, and the City is on schedule and even ahead of schedule in some areas. Near perfect construction weather and few unexpected issues have contributed to a smooth season so far.

“We’re really pleased that our road and sidewalk work is already about 90 per cent complete,” says Celene Anger, Director of Construction and Design. “If the weather continues to cooperate, we do expect to complete about 20 per cent more sidewalk work than we projected—we’re very happy about that.”

Another project that benefitted from the favourable construction conditions was the Circle Drive over 33^rd Street northbound overpass which was completed five weeks ahead of schedule. This project’s early finish was attributed to a combination of nice weather and contractor efforts.

Anger says it’s too soon to say whether the City will be able to accelerate other projects or complete additional work.

“In deciding whether we can proceed with additional work, there are a lot of things that need to be considered,” says Anger. “Budget is the primary consideration and only certain types of work can be started at end of season and carried over into the next year.”

Following is an update on some key areas of City construction and maintenance:

• Potholes & utility cuts: City crews have filled the equivalent (based on an average sized pothole with a 12” diameter and 4” depth) of 99,100 potholes with asphalt. Infrared pothole patching, a new technique for the City of Saskatoon, is ongoing on Circle Drive. Crews have repaired 1,690 utility cuts to date.
• Back lanes: Back lane grading is 95% complete and back lane reconstruction will begin September 10^th.
• Line painting: Lines on roadways and crosswalks (1,035 across the city) have received their first coat of paint and the application of the second and final coat is in progress. A total of 420 km of white paint, 235 km of yellow paint, and 5.6 km of Durable Line Markings have been applied so far.
• Water & sewer: Water and sewer replacement and rehabilitation work is about 70% complete across the city. A total of 17,885 metres of water and sewer line has been restored or replaced as well as 341 underground connections. The work on Idylwyld Drive and at Avenue J/29^th Street is complete and the work in City Park and in Forest Grove is ongoing.
• Roadways: Of the City’s planned 206 lane km of roadway improvements, 183 km are now complete.
• Sidewalks: The City has completed 19 km of sidewalk replacement. An additional 3,892 sidewalk panels have received maintenance and preservation treatments.
• Intersections: The road and sidewalk work at the intersection of Taylor & Arlington has completed; some short duration finishing/clean-up work (i.e. irrigation, light post lines, medians) will be scheduled in the weeks to come.
  Interchanges: The McOrmond interchange remains in progress with a target of opening in October 2018. The Boychuk interchange is on schedule to open in summer 2019.
• Overpass structures: Major rehabilitation and repair work on the Circle Drive over 33^rd Street northbound overpass completed in early August. The 2018 washing and sealing program has also completed on city overpass and bridge structures.
• Bridges: Both the new Traffic Bridge and the Chief Mistawasis Bridge (North Commuter Parkway) are on schedule to open in October 2018.

More information about the 2018 Building Better Roads plan is available at saskatoon.ca/BetterRoads. You can also access Traffic Detour Service Alerts at saskatoon.ca/ServiceAlerts or follow @YXEServiceAlert on Twitter.

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

22ND ST E EB MEDIAN LANE CLOSED AT IDYLWYLD DR S
(Gas valve maintenance)
Start: August 26, 6:00 a.m. End: August 26, 7:00 a.m.

COLLEGE DR EB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM SPADINA CRES E TO SASKATCHEWAN CRES E
(Minor bridge repair)
Start: August 25, 7:00 a.m. End: August 25, 5:30 p.m.

NEAULT RD NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 22ND ST W TO 33RD ST W
(Roadway patching)
Start: August 26, 7:00 a.m. End: August 26, 4:00 p.m.

LOUISE AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM TAYLOR ST E TO 3RD ST E
(Road resurfacing)
Start: August 25, 7:00 a.m. End: September 1, 5:00 p.m.

5TH AVE N NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM QUEEN ST TO 26TH ST E
(Rooftop crane setup)
Start: August 26, 8:00 a.m. End: August 26, 1:00 p.m.

115TH ST E EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM BRADWELL AVE TO SPRUCE DR
(Water main replacement)
Start: August 26, 8:00 a.m. End: September 22, 4:00 p.m.

NIGHT WORK

115TH ST E EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM BRADWELL AVE TO SPRUCE DR
(Sewer lining)
Start: August 24, 7:00 p.m. End: August 25, 7:00 a.m.


ONGOING

LORNE AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM JASPER AVE TO EXHIBITION GROUNDS RD
(Water main connection)
Start: August 21, 7:00 a.m. End: August 27, 7:00 p.m.

2ND AVE S NB ROAD CLOSED FROM SPADINA CRES E TO 19TH ST E
(Catch basin installation)
Start: August 24, 12:00 p.m. End: August 28, 5:00 p.m.

21ST ST E WB ROAD CLOSED FROM 2ND AVE S TO 1ST AVE S
(Fibre installation)
Start: August 23, 7:00 a.m. End: August 28, 5:00 p.m.

115TH ST E EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM SPRUCE DR TO INNES CRT
(Water main rehab)
Start: July 19, 9:00 a.m. End: August 29, 4:00 p.m.

TAYLOR ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED AT ARLINGTON AVE
(Intersection improvements)
Start: August 13, 7:00 a.m. End: August 31, 5:00 p.m.

MCCLOCKLIN RD NB & SB CLOSED FROM RICHARDSON RD TO CLAYPOOL DR
(Roadway removal, underground utilities & roadway construction)
Start: August 14, 9:00 a.m. End: August 31, 6:00 p.m.

RUSHOLME RD ALL LANES CLOSED AT AVE J S
(Water main replacement)
Start: August 17, 7:00 a.m. End: August 31, 7:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD CRES NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 11TH ST E TO IDYLWYLD DR S
(Sewer rehab)
Start: August 7, 7:00 a.m. End: September 4, 6:00 p.m.

4TH AVE N NB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM 22ND ST E TO 23RD ST E
(Exterior finishing)
NB traffic maintained with realignment
Start: July 8, 7:00 a.m. End: September 10, 5:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR E SB CURB & CENTER LANES CLOSED AT 8TH ST E
(Water main maintenance)
Start: July 30, 9:00 a.m. End: September 14, 5:00 p.m.

COLLEGE DR CLOSED FROM CENTRAL AVE TO CIRCLE DR E
(Ditch excavation)
Start: July 26, 9:00 a.m. End: September 14, 6:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES CLOSED FROM KONIHOWSKI RD TO FEDORUK DR
(Roadway construction)
Two-way traffic will be accommodated in the NB lanes.
Start: November 6, 7:00 a.m. End: October 1, 5:00 p.m.
 

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

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

*This report includes road restrictions on Priority 1 (high traffic, high speed) streets only.

NEW

AVE L S NB, SB & WB LANES CLOSED AT 18TH ST W
(Water main tie-in)
Start: August 27, 7:00 a.m. End: August 31, 5:00 p.m.

TAYLOR ST E EB MEDIAN & LEFT TURN LANES CLOSED. WB LEFT TURN LANE CLOSED. AT WEYAKWIN DR
(Manhole repairs)
Start: August 27, 9:00 a.m. End: August 27, 12:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR W SB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM AIRPORT DR TO 33RD ST W
(Pothole patching)
Start: August 27, 10:30 a.m. End: August 27, 4:00 p.m.

ONGOING

LORNE AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM JASPER AVE TO EXHIBITION GROUNDS RD
(Water main connection)
Start: August 21, 7:00 a.m. End: August 27, 7:00 p.m.

21ST ST E WB ROAD CLOSED FROM 2ND AVE S TO 1ST AVE S
(Fibre installation)
Start: August 23, 7:00 a.m. End: August 28, 5:00 p.m.

2ND AVE S NB ROAD CLOSED FROM SPADINA CRES E TO 19TH ST E
(Catch basin installation)
Start: August 24, 12:00 p.m. End: August 28, 5:00 p.m.

NEAULT RD NB & SB SPEED REDUCTION FROM 33RD ST W & KENSINGTON GATE W
(water main installation)
Start: August 15, 7:00 a.m. END: October 15, 5:00 p.m.

115TH ST E EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM SPRUCE DR TO INNES CRT
(Water main rehab)
Start: July 19, 9:00 a.m. End: August 29, 4:00 p.m.

TAYLOR ST E EB CURB LANE CLOSED AT ARLINGTON AVE
(Intersection improvements)
Start: August 13, 7:00 a.m. End: August 31, 5:00 p.m.

MCCLOCKLIN RD NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM RICHARDSON RD TO CLAYPOOL DR
(Roadway removal, underground utilities & roadway construction)
Start: August 14, 9:00 a.m. End: August 31, 6:00 p.m.

RUSHOLME RD CLOSED AT AVE J S
(Water main replacement)
Start: August 17, 7:00 a.m. End: August 31, 7:00 p.m.

LOUISE AVE NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM TAYLOR ST E TO 3RD ST E
(Road resurfacing)
Start: August 25, 7:00 a.m. End: September 1, 5:00 p.m.

IDYLWYLD CRES NB & SB LANES CLOSED FROM 11TH ST E TO IDYLWYLD DR S
(Sewer rehab)
Start: August 7, 7:00 a.m. End: September 4, 6:00 p.m.

4TH AVE N NB CURB LANE CLOSED FROM 22ND ST E TO 23RD ST E
(Exterior finishing)
NB traffic maintained with realignment
Start: July 8, 7:00 a.m. End: September 10, 5:00 p.m.

CIRCLE DR E SB CURB & CENTER LANES CLOSED AT 8TH ST E
(Water main maintenance)
Start: July 30, 9:00 a.m. End: September 14, 5:00 p.m.

COLLEGE DR FROM CENTRAL AVE TO CIRCLE DR E
(Ditch excavation)
Start: July 26, 9:00 a.m. End: September 14, 6:00 p.m.

115TH ST E EB & WB LANES CLOSED FROM BRADWELL AVE TO SPRUCE DR
(Water main replacement)
Start: August 26, 8:00 a.m. End: September 22, 4:00 p.m.

CENTRAL AVE SB LANES CLOSED FROM KONIHOWSKI RD TO FEDORUK DR
(Roadway construction)
Two-way traffic will be accommodated in the NB lanes.
Start: November 6, 7:00 a.m. End: October 1, 5:00 p.m.
 

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

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

With the approval of the Water Security Agency, the City of Saskatoon has lifted the Do Not Use water advisory for the Rosewood Commercial Area, including Meadows Market. The area has been under an advisory since May 11, 2018 after potential hydrocarbon contamination was discovered in a few area hydrants.

“This type of contaminant was something we had no experience with so we needed time to conduct comprehensive testing and formulate a careful approach to remediation,” says Angela Gardiner, Acting General Manager of Transportation & Utilities. “The process to lift the water advisory wasn’t a quick one but it was thorough which means we can feel confident in lifting the advisory and returning the area to full use of the permanent underground water supply.”

“Initially, all that was understood was that a black substance was identified in certain hydrants that potentially contained hydrocarbon properties,” says Chris Mathies, Principal & Sector Leader with Environmental Services at Stantec—a global engineering firm contracted to lead remediation. “We now know that the water quality in the Rosewood Commercial Area was not compromised. As a precautionary measure, remediation activities were carried out to thoroughly clean and test the water infrastructure.”

Inspections and remediation activities conducted in June-July 2018 included:
•      Camera inspections of water distribution system with a high definition camera to assess conditions before and after remediation.
•      High pressure flushing and regular flushing.
•      Scrubbing, also known as pigging.

Since the completion of inspection and remediation activities, confirmatory testing has been ongoing to verify that the water continues to meet all drinking water standards. Properties located within the Rosewood Commercial Area, including Meadows Market, received notification that the advisory had been lifted earlier today.

Each year, water enthusiasts head out to the many lakes and rivers across the country to indulge in water sports and activities. This can be an excellent way to spend some time enjoying the outdoors with friends and family, but only when done safely and responsibly. The Saskatoon Fire Department would like to emphasize the importance of having and maintaining the proper flotation equipment so that it is ready to use.

Lifejackets and personal flotation devices (PFDs) are an integral element of staying safe when in or around larger bodies of water. Slight variations between the function and purpose of lifejackets and PFDs exist; however, both act as a life-saving flotation device.

Start by selecting the appropriate flotation device for your desired purpose. Be sure that the flotation device is Transport Canada approved, and that it is the proper fit relative to your weight and body type.

Remember that if the activity you are participating in involves a human- or motor-powered watercraft, you are required by law to have a Transport Canada approved lifejacket or PFD for each person on board the craft.

Never use your flotation device for purposes that it was not intended for; this could cause damage and wear that will affect the functionality of the flotation device. If the flotation device is expired, altered, ripped, or otherwise misshapen, it is no longer effective and must be replaced.

When finished with your flotation device, make sure it is stored properly in a dry and airy location. If the flotation device is wet, allow ample time for drying, keeping in mind that it should be out of direct sunlight and never be dried using a direct source of heat, such as radiators or dryers.

Always exercise safe practices when in or around larger bodies of water. Wear your Transport Canada approved lifejacket or PFD. 

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Saskatoon Transit is asking residents to nominate bus stops for improvements or shelter replacement.

The Bus Stop Blues campaign kicks-off today on Saskatoon Transit Twitter, City of Saskatoon Twitter and the City of Saskatoon’s Facebook page. Over the next four weeks, using the hashtag #BusStopBluesYXE, Saskatoon Transit is asking residents to post a photo and the location of the bus stop where they would like to see improvements. 

“We started the Bus Stop Blues campaign last fall and found people really responded to it, so we are once again asking residents where they would like to see improvements made,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit.

McDonald says Saskatoon Transit has been focusing on improving the Transit customer experience and bus stops and shelters play a big part in that. “Saskatoon Transit is listening and reacting to customer feedback. This is an opportunity for the public to help shape the future of Saskatoon Transit in our city.”

Following the campaign, bus shelters and stops will be classified to see what improvements can be made this year and what improvements may have to wait until the spring.

Saskatoon Transit has allocated funds to improve approximately 23 bus stops throughout the City of Saskatoon.

As we progress through the summer months, the Saskatoon Fire Department would like to remind residents and visitors of the responsibilities and expectations when operating a human- or motor-powered craft on the South Saskatchewan River.

Watercraft are permitted on the South Saskatchewan River where posted, and require proof of competency. Watercraft operators are required by law to have a lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) on board for each person; this includes both human- and motor-powered crafts. Please ensure that the watercraft is in good condition, that you have made an emergency plan, left a travel plan, and consistently monitor weather conditions. Be sure to learn and obey all laws and regulations of the local jurisdiction.

It is important to remember that you may not be the only craft on the waterway, and to always be aware of your surroundings; this includes monitoring the actions of other river users. River users should maintain proper river etiquette, and be considerate of others on the waterway. You do so by:

• Operating your craft at a safe speed,

• Maintaining a respectful distance from other river users,

• Not operating a craft while under the influence of drugs or alcohol,

• Ensuring your craft is equipped with appropriate markers and lighting, and

• Caring for the environment by properly launching, fueling, starting, and loading your craft

Obstacles and discarded debris can pose a threat to watercrafts, as well as passengers; Operators should be aware of the potential and marked hazards, and use knowledge and good judgment when approaching them.

The South Saskatchewan River can pose a significant danger when a lack of care and consideration is given to following the rules and regulations of the waterway. Remember to always be cautious whether in or around larger bodies of water, and to exercise respectful river etiquette if using the river for recreation or leisure purposes. The Transport Canada guide to safe boating on Canada’s waterways can be found here. 

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

The City of Saskatoon has released an updated strategic plan to reflect the priorities of City Council. The revised plan places the focus on achieving important outcomes during the 2018-2021 period.

“The refreshed Strategic Plan incorporates a new and innovative leadership model of City Council to address the challenges and opportunities of a changing world,” says Mayor Charlie Clark. “By empowering all members of City Council in 10 priority areas, we can work through some complex, sticky issues by working with stakeholders and making progress for the benefits of the citizens of Saskatoon. This leadership model is a bold change for the City and offers another opportunity to truly unlock the full potential of our community.”

In 2012, City Council adopted a 10-year Strategic Plan that reflected the visionary ambitions of people in Saskatoon through the community visioning process Saskatoon Speaks. The updated plan still includes public input from that initiative, but also incorporates the sentiment from the January 2017, Let’s Talk 2020 engagement initiative where citizens shared their thoughts on what the City’s priorities should be over the next four years.

“The foundation of the strategic plan remains intact, but we have gained a better understanding of what its seven Strategic Goals mean to our city,” says City Manager, Jeff Jorgenson. “This improved awareness offers an opportunity to refine the plan and establish well-defined outcomes for each Strategic Goal that reflect the current City Council.”

Other enhancements include measures to monitor progress that correspond to each outcome and specific actions Administration will take to make progress. It sets things in a way that ensures that the City’s programs and services will address the needs of the community while keeping within our financial means. The updates are timely as this plan will help guide the City’s first ever multi-year business plan and budget process starting in 2020.

“The timeframe of this plan reflects the term of City Council,” says Jorgenson. “It is good governance to revisit the plan at regular intervals to keep us on track for realizing our vision for the future to make Saskatoon a great place to live, work, learn and play.”

The plan will go into action once it is formally approved by City Council.

The major rehabilitation and repair work of the Circle Drive over 33^rd Street northbound overpass has been completed five weeks ahead of schedule. Barring weather issues or unforeseen complications, the traffic restrictions will be removed and the road reopened to regular vehicle traffic this weekend.

“We are extremely pleased to have this work completed, and a return to normal traffic use, sooner than expected,” says Todd Grabowski, Manager of Asset Preservation for Bridges. “The near perfect weather and the fact that we encountered no major issues allowed us to accelerate our schedule and move ahead of where we expected to be at this point in the project.”

The work got underway on July 3, 2018 and was expected to take until mid-September to complete. The rehabilitation work included asphalt removal and replacement, concrete repairs, application of waterproofing membrane, and the removal and replacement of expansion joints. Based on the Bridges and Structures Inspection and Deck Testing Program, the Circle Drive southbound overpass did not require rehabilitation at this time.

“We want to thank road users for their patience and cooperation while we carried out this necessary construction,” says Grabowski. “This proactive work will ensure the bridge structure continues to serve drivers for many years to come.”

Every day, approximately 20,000 vehicles pass over the Circle Drive over 33^rd Street northbound overpass.