Saskatoon Minute: Crosswalk Signal, Accessible Pier, and Rapid Transit Branding

Saskatoon Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Saskatoon politics

This Week In Saskatoon:

• The Governance and Priorities Committee will meet on Wednesday at 9:30 am. The Committee will discuss a report from administration that proposes Saskatoon's new bus rapid transit system be named "Link," to distinguish it within Saskatoon Transit.
  
  
• Starting at 8:00 am this morning the southbound ramp from 8th Street East to Circle Drive will be closed for hydrant maintenance. Motorists will be redirected via detours around the construction area. The project is scheduled to finish in two days, depending on weather conditions and any unexpected events.
  
  
• The City is set to enhance pedestrian safety at the intersection of 22nd Street and Avenue X, near Westgate Plaza, following a fatal incident involving a 62-year-old pedestrian two years ago. With a $78,000 provincial grant funded by photo speed enforcement fines, the City plans to install a pedestrian-activated crosswalk signal, pavement markings, and signage.

Last Week In Saskatoon:

• The City has launched a feedback initiative to gather input on walking and cycling improvements along Victoria Avenue from Taylor Street to Ruth Street. This is the first of two engagement opportunities, aiming to collect perspectives from property owners, the public, and community groups to develop design alternatives. The final recommended design will be presented to the Standing Policy Committee on Transportation and City Council in 2025. Residents can participate through an open house on July 23th, 2024 at Avalon Alliance Church from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, and an online survey open until August 20th, 2024.
  
  
• Saskatoon’s Forestry Farm and Park has unveiled a new fully accessible pier, offering families a chance to explore the prairie marsh. The wider pier now accommodates wheelchair access and enhances capacity for school programs and pond-dipping activities. Constructed during winter, the new facility includes net extenders for deeper pond exploration, fostering learning about native wildlife and wetland conservation. Supported by a donation from Greg and Olivia Yuel, the pier aims to promote community inclusivity and appreciation for nature, and is located near the pronghorn exhibit at the zoo.
  
  
• Saskatoon implemented its extreme heat emergency response plan as temperatures soared. The plan includes cooling stations, outreach services, wellness checks, and water distribution, with some organizations offering misting tents for additional cooling options. Residents can find a complete list of cooling stations and services on the City’s website. As part of the response, spray pad hours across Saskatoon have been extended until 10:00 pm.