Saskatoon commuters should prepare for significant traffic disruptions as the city's construction season launches on April 6, with three major projects impacting key routes including College Drive, 25th Street, and University Bridge. According to city officials, full closures along College Drive and University Bridge are expected to primarily affect April, May, and part of June, though some work may extend longer.
Three Major Projects Set to Begin
The construction work between First Avenue and Cumberland Avenue is divided into three distinct projects: water main improvements downtown, University Bridge rehabilitation, and the College Drive Link bus route development. City representatives emphasize they are working to minimize impacts, but acknowledge some frustration is inevitable during this period.
Downtown Water Main Work
The downtown water main project includes comprehensive water main lining, Fourth Avenue water and storm sewer installation, excavations at multiple downtown intersections, and extensive road resurfacing. While one lane each way will remain open for most of this construction, intersection work will periodically require detours to 24th Street.
"We're working to keep impacts as small as possible," said Matt Jurkiewicz, director of construction and design. "Some frustration is expected, but a little grace will help everyone get through the construction period safely."
The timing for this two-year project remains uncertain as bids are still being processed. Similar infrastructure work is anticipated along 24th Street next year.
University Bridge Rehabilitation
The University Bridge will undergo concrete repairs on its arches, requiring complete closure to all traffic except emergency vehicles. Two-way traffic will resume once the second phase of rehabilitation begins. This critical work is scheduled from April through the end of July.
Dan Willems, director of technical services, clarified that the University Bridge repairs are unrelated to previous fires that occurred beneath the bridge in recent years. "(University Bridge) is a vintage World War 1 bridge," Willems noted. "It's our oldest one in our inventory that we manage."
Bridge repair costs are estimated at $1.5 million, while the College Drive work carries an estimated $50 million price tag. Unlike last year's Broadway Bridge closure that ran from May to October with advance notice, this year's University Bridge closure was announced just five days before work commencement, though the duration is expected to be shorter.
Traffic Planning and Hospital Access
City officials are advising commuters who regularly use University Bridge to plan alternative routes. Additionally, those accessing Royal University Hospital or the Jim Pattison Children's Hospital are being directed to approach from the east side of College Drive to avoid construction zones.
"Folks that use the University Bridge in their daily commute should also plan to revise their routes accordingly," Willems emphasized.
The construction season's coordinated timing aims to complete the most disruptive work during spring and early summer months, with city representatives requesting public patience as these essential infrastructure improvements progress.
