Millar Avenue Reconstruction Project Deferred Following Mixed Community Response
The proposed reconstruction of Millar Avenue in Saskatoon's north end has been deferred by the city's transportation committee after receiving mixed reviews from residents and business owners. The project, which aims to address significant safety concerns at the busy intersection of Millar Avenue and 51st Street, has sparked both support and apprehension within the community.
Safety Concerns Drive Proposed Changes
City administration presented two reports to the transportation committee focusing on the intersection of Millar Avenue and 51st Street, as well as the stretch between 43rd Street and Marquis Drive. The proposed reconstruction comes in response to alarming safety data showing 161 collisions at the intersection between 2018 and 2022, with an additional 110 collisions at nearby private approaches and alleys.
Significant traffic delays and queuing during peak hours have been identified as primary safety concerns, particularly at business driveway accesses. A presentation to the committee included video evidence showing vehicles making risky left turns at the Co-op gas station, McDonald's, and cutting across the street from the Tim Hortons/Wendy's location.
Proposed Improvements and Business Impacts
The recommended full reconstruction of the intersection carries an estimated cost of $6.24 million and includes several key improvements:
- Shared-use asphalt pathways along both sides of Millar Avenue
- Improved crosswalks at the 51st Street intersection
- Installation of medians near the intersection to prevent dangerous left turns
- Coordination of traffic signals along 51st Street, including railway crossing integration with CN Rail
However, these improvements would come at a cost to local businesses. The project would eliminate all front parking spaces for Faithfull Tirecraft and reduce parking for other nearby businesses, while also removing several trees and green spaces along the corridor.
Business Community Expresses Concerns
Councillor Donauer acknowledged the safety concerns the project aims to address but noted that impacted businesses feel their voices aren't being heard. The city conducted two rounds of engagement with local business owners in July 2024 and February 2025, yet concerns persist about the project's impact on commercial operations.
City administration has stated that some affected parking areas are on public space without formal leases or permissions, and they would work with business owners to mitigate parking issues. However, this assurance hasn't fully alleviated business concerns about potential disruptions to customer access and operations.
Balancing Safety and Community Needs
The deferral decision reflects the complex challenge of balancing pedestrian safety improvements with business community concerns. While the proposed reconstruction aims to address documented safety hazards and improve accessibility, the significant impact on local enterprises has created division within the community.
The transportation committee's decision to defer the project allows for further consideration of how to address safety concerns while minimizing negative impacts on the business community. This development highlights the ongoing tension between infrastructure improvements and community interests in urban planning decisions.
