News Releases

The City of Saskatoon (City) reminds residents that the provincial ban on pruning elm trees will be in effect between April 1 and August 31, 2015.

The ban ensures that elm bark beetles, which transmit dutch elm disease (DED), are not attracted to the freshly pruned trees when these beetles are most active.  Anyone wishing to prune elm trees during the ban must obtain a permit.  Please call City of Saskatoon Parks Division at 306-975-3300 for information.

DED was first discovered in Saskatchewan in 1981 and continues to be found in more areas of the province every year.  DED is caused by a fungus that clogs the tree’s water conducting system, which eventually causes the tree to die, usually within one or two seasons.  Early symptoms of the disease usually appear by July when the leaves on one or more branches wilt, curl, turn yellow, and then die.

The only effective management strategy for the elm bark beetle is to deprive it of its breeding habitat.  This involves keeping elm trees healthy by removing potential breeding material in trees and eliminating detached elm wood.  For this reason, it is necessary to dispose, or render un-inhabitable, elm stumps and remove any fallen branches or any wood from a fallen elm tree.  Under no circumstances should elm wood be left lying around, stored for firewood, or other purposes.

Elm removal can occur at any time of the year; however, the entire tree must be removed and all waste elm be transported to the nearest approved landfill site in the municipality where the elm was removed.  In Saskatoon, the Saskatoon Landfill is the only site approved for elm tree disposal.

It is estimated that Saskatoon’s 25,000 boulevard and park elm trees are worth approximately $45 million, and many more are located on private property.  While Saskatoon does not have the disease, effective DED management requires everyones support.  Anyone suspecting an elm is unhealthy is asked to please contact the City at 306-975-2890.

For more information, visit www.saskatoon.ca/trees.

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 (City) invites the public to an open house to view and comment on the proposed North Sector Plan, which will include Saskatoon’s future north industrial growth and employment area.

 The North Sector Plan will create a vision to facilitate economic development opportunities by expanding the north industrial growth and employment area.  In the future, the area will generate new employment possibilities; accommodate fully-serviced industrial, commercial, and business park developments; and potentially include provision for new recreation facilities.

OPEN HOUSE:  North Sector Plan
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
6 p.m. to 8 p.m. – “Come and Go”
Bishop James Mahoney High School (Cafeteria)
231 Primrose Drive

Presentation panels illustrating the proposed North Sector Plan vision will be shown and civic staff will be available to answer questions.  Feedback from the open house will be collected and considered in the development of the final North Sector Plan.

If you are unable to attend the open house, please visit www.shapingsaskatoon.ca to review meeting information after the open house.  If you have questions or wish to provide comments, please call the City’s Planning and Development Division at 306‑975-7946 or email city.planning@saskatoon.ca.

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

8.3.2 New Pilot Programs Improve Ice Management Results

 City Council received the report as information.

 Additional Information:

*A new de-icing product was tested this winter to soften ice build-up on priority streets when salting is no longer effective.

*Sand volumes were reduced by 45% on roads treated with the mixture compared to the previous de-icing product.

*It is estimated $131,464 was saved over a two-month test period.

8.3.4 College Drive Classification

 City Council changed the classification of College Drive, between the Canadian Pacific Railway tracks and the city limits, to an Urban Expressway.

 Additional Information:

*The Brighton neighbourhood Traffic Impact Analyses identified increased traffic demands resulting from higher density development in the Holmwood Sector.

*The reclassification will facilitate a tight-urban diamond interchange at McOrmond Drive.  It will provide the ability to improve connectivity into the Brighton neighbourhood by adding additional access points along College Drive.

*The Administration is proceeding with the final design of the tight urban diamond interchange. Tender of the project will occur within the next few months.  When construction begins, the speed limit will need to be reduced for construction purposes; this is not expected until early 2016.

*The Administration is also proceeding with more detailed evaluation for the design of an additional access point into Brighton. Following the direction of City Council, the Administration will report back on whether it needs to be an at-grade signalized intersection or a grade separation (overpass).  A report is planned for the end of the year.

8.5.9 Nutana Slope Failure Options

*City Council adopted Option A as outlined in the report from Executive Committee on March 16.

*Council also resolved to ensure that the existing mediation process is available to facilitate the scope of the issue should the affected property owners require the process and that this be through an independent mediator.

 Additional Information:

*The City will continue to address public safety as it has in the past, which is through regular monitoring and reporting to residents (Option A).

*Option A does not include financial participation by the City.  Option A is consistent with the City’s past practice of not intervening on private property.

9.4.1 University Bridge Rehabilitation Transportation Planning

City Council received the report which provides information regarding the transportation planning completed in support of the rehabilitation of the University Bridge Project planned for the summer of 2015.

Additional Information:

*The report outlines anticipated changes in traffic patterns at various intersections throughout the city. Travel time comparisons between normal bridge operations and full closure are included in the report.

*Authorized vehicles will be allowed to use one lane of the bridge and access protocol has been developed to coordinate these operations.

9.10.1 Bicycle Program Update

*City Council approved installation of protected bike lanes on 23^rd Street (from Spadina Crescent to Idylwyld Drive) as a demonstration in 2015.

*City Council also approved the installation of curb parking on the north side of 24^th Street between Ontario Avenue and Idylwyld Drive.

*City council directed protected bike lanes be installed on 4^th Avenue (from 19^th Street to 24^th Street) as a demonstration project in 2016.

 Additional Information:

*Extensive engagement with stakeholders and the public was undertaken, which resulted in general support for the project and the identification of key issues.

*The demonstration period will be a minimum of 18 months in duration with the 23rd Street project implemented in 2015, and the 4th Avenue project added in 2016.

9.11.2 Remai Modern Business Plan

*City Council received the Remai Modern Business Plan: 2015 to 2019 as information; and

*City Council decided the approval and phased implementation of The Remai Modern Business Plan:  2015 to 2019 occur on an annual basis through the Corporate Business Plan and Budget review process.

 Additional Information:

*In March of 2014, MNP was engaged by Remai Modern to work with staff to complete a revision and update of its business plan to ensure valid and updated financial and operating assumptions, which incorporate the  Gallery’s brand and vision.

*The Gallery will be recognized as one of the top art galleries in Canada and will be a major driver of the Saskatoon tourism market and as such a catalyst for economic growth in the city.

-30-

NEW

CIRCLE DR E WB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED APPROACHING IDYLWYLD DR N NB OFF RAMP
(Electronic work)
Start: March 25, 9:00 a.m. End: March 25, 12:00 p.m.

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

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

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

The City of Saskatoon Green Cart program has expanded so more residents can conveniently dispose of yard waste without putting it in their black garbage cart. Food waste is not accepted in the 2015 Green Cart program.

For $55 we’ll collect your unbagged leaves, grass clippings and non-elm tree trimmings every two weeks from May to November. Register online at Saskatoon.ca/greencart. New registrations and renewals accepted until June 1. For more information call 306-975-2486.

The City’s compost depots open in mid-April for residents to drop off their leaves, grass and non-elm branches and tree trimmings free of charge. For locations and hours, visit Saskatoon.ca/compostdepots. The compost from our Compost Depots is used to improve our parks, community gardens and other public green spaces. The City will not be selling compost or mulch from the Compost Depots in 2015.

Yard waste makes up over 1/3 of the garbage from an average household, taking up valuable landfill space and contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. When yard waste is buried in the landfill, it doesn’t turn into soil or compost because of the airless environment. Instead, it creates nasty stuff like methane gas and liquid leachate, which has to be managed under strict environmental regulations.

A healthy environment is essential to a healthy community, now and in the future. The City of Saskatoon demonstrates environmental leadership through outreach, partnerships, and community programs that help Saskatoon thrive in harmony with its natural environment, and conserve resources.

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 from the links at saskatoon.ca.

-30-

The City of Saskatoon (City) invites residents and businesses to an open house to discuss current and future parking needs in the Downtown and adjacent commercial areas of Broadway and Riversdale.

OPEN HOUSE:  Comprehensive Downtown Parking Strategy
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
A brief presentation will be provided by the City and Parking Consultant at 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
TCU Place - Salon A
35 - 22nd Street East

Feedback gathered at the open house will be used in the development of the upcoming Comprehensive Downtown Parking Strategy.  The Strategy will identify potential adjustments to the parking system in the short-term, as well as a long-term plan to provide an appropriate supply of parking in the City Centre as Saskatoon grows to a population of 500,000

The City’s Project Team has been collecting information about existing parking challenges and anticipated future parking needs.  Before development can begin on the Parking Strategy, input is needed from residents and businesses to determine whether there are any gaps in the information collected and if preliminary ideas to improve parking systems are on the right track.

The City encourages everyone to participate in this important discussion about the parking issues that affect you today to help improve it in the future.

If you are unable to attend the open house, please visit www.shapingsaskatoon.ca to review meeting information.  If you have questions or wish to provide comments, please call the City’s Planning and Development Division at 306-975-7697 or email parking.study@saskatoon.ca.

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

Saskatoon is in the midst of an on-going snow event that started Saturday morning and is continuing through the weekend. Snowfall accumulations along with blowing snow have created significant challenges for motorists.  Current weather forecast is calling for an additional 5 cm of snow, accompanied by strong winds.

Strong winds and blowing snow will continue to cause reduced visibility and poor driving conditions throughout the day. Drivers are reminded to slow down and  use extra caution as roadway conditions can change quickly.

Crews are working 24/7 and are currently focussing on plowing and sanding Circle Drive and other high speed priority roadways. In addition, crews are grading, sanding and salting priority streets and high risk intersections. Private contractors have been called in to assist with snow grading on priority streets.

Regular Snow & Ice service alerts will be issued this morning and late afternoon. If a snow event is declared the Snow & Ice Interactive Map will be updated as priority streets are graded. These updates will be shared on our social media channels and Saskatoon.ca.

To report any hazardous locations please contact Public Works Customer Service at 306-975-2476.

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

Current weather forecasts are calling for up to 20 cm of snow over the weekend, strong winds and the possibility of freezing rain. Crews will be sanding and salting priority streets and high risk intersections 24/7 as it snows, with all equipment at the ready.

If the snow reaches 5 cm or more, private contractors will be called in to assist with snow grading on priority streets. Also, regular Snow & Ice service alerts will be issued in the morning and late afternoon and the Snow & Ice Interactive Map will be updated as priority streets are graded. These updates will be shared on our social media channels and Saskatoon.ca.

Strong winds and blowing snow could cause reduced visibility. Drivers are reminded to please use extra caution as roadway conditions change.

To report any hazardous locations please contact Public Works Customer Service at 306-975-2476.

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

NEW

23RD ST E CLOSED FROM 3RD AVE N TO 4TH AVE N
(High Voltage Classic Hockey Tournament)
Start: March 21, 5:30 a.m. End: March 22, 8:00 p.m.

8TH ST E EB CURB (OUTSIDE) LANE CLOSED FROM BROADWAY AVE TO ALBERT AVE
(Parks Tree Pruning)
Start: March 21, 8:00 a.m. End: March 22, 5:00 p.m.

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

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

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

It’s not too late for residents to get involved in Water Week in Saskatoon and across Canada.  The City of Saskatoon will host an hour-long twitter chat with the Water Treatment Plant Manager, Troy LaFreniere, and other City water & sewer system experts TODAY, Friday, March 20, 2014 at 12:00 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 with the City’s water & sewer system.  To participate, sign-up or log-in to Twitter and tweet your questions to @cityofsaskatoon or by using the #yxeWaterWeek hashtag.

Water Week is March 16-22 and the City has been sharing interesting facts through social media channels, including a Water Week Question of the Day on Facebook.  Learn more at saskatoon.ca/waterweek.

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.