To accommodate the Saskatoon Pride Festival and Pride Parade in the downtown area this weekend, detours, lane restrictions, and “no parking” signs will be in place guiding motorists around the event area.

Saskatoon Pride Festival event road restrictions set in place from Friday, June 16 at 2:00 p.m. to Sunday June 18 at 3:00 p.m.:

• The Traffic Bridge closed between 11th and 19th streets   
• Spadina Crescent closed between 2nd Avenue and 20th Street

The Pride Parade route will move from Kiwanis Park, with closures in place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, June 17:

• Spadina Crescent closed between 24th and 25th streets under the University Bridge 
• 24th Street closed between Spadina Crescent and 4th Avenue
• 4th Avenue closed between 22nd and 24th streets 
• 22nd Street closed between 1st and 4th avenues
• 1st Avenue closed between 20th and 22nd streets
• 20th Street closed from 1st and 4th avenues
• 3rd Avenue closed between 19th and 20th streets
• Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge off-ramp to 1st Avenue closed

During the Pride Parade, Saskatoon Transit will implement minor route changes and set up temporary bus stops from approximately 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The Downtown Terminal bus stops will operate as usual, except for Route 6 Broadway, 60 Confederation, and 65 Kensington. Route 6, 60, and 65 routes will have temporary bus stops on 23rd Street Eastbound, just east of 2nd Avenue. Route 8 City Centre and 81, 82, 84 and 86 Centre Mall will serve downtown via the Senator Sid Buckwold Bridge. Please note that Route 5 City Centre will not be able to reach the residences on 24th or 23rd Streets from approximately 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

For detailed information on bus stop closures, Transit service alerts and real-time bus information are available on third-party apps like Transit and Google Maps Transit on desktop.  If you have any questions or need assistance, contact the dedicated Customer Service team at 306-975-3100.

Drivers are reminded to watch out for pedestrians. The City thanks everyone for their patience. 

For more information about current road restrictions and construction, visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

In anticipation of higher than normal temperatures this weekend, the Saskatoon Emergency Management Organization (EMO) will activate the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan from Sunday, June 11 to Wednesday, June 14 to support residents in Saskatoon, especially those vulnerable to the heat.

The Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response Plan is a coordinated response that provides residents with access to cooling locations, outreach services, wellness checks and water distribution during extreme heat. Individuals and families experiencing distress from the heat can visit any of the designated cool-down locations throughout the city. Partner organizations will also distribute water to vulnerable residents and have access to misting tents to provide another way to cool down.

Extreme heat can cause serious negative health impacts ranging from dehydration and heat exhaustion to heat stroke and potentially death. Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for individuals who live in a residence without air conditioning or a way to cool the home, are older adults, and who also have pre-existing health conditions. Residents can help those most vulnerable to this extreme and prolonged heat by checking on family, friends and neighbours, sharing the cool-down locations poster and by alerting emergency services if they see someone in distress due to the extreme heat.

In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Other things to consider during days of extreme heat: 

River Safety

Although the South Saskatchewan River may provide a tempting option to cool down on hot days, EMO reminds residents that the river is unpredictable and swimming in the river is prohibited. The river has many hazards including changing currents and an unstable bottom.

Pet Wellness

On warm summer days, it’s important to keep your pets safe and comfortable. Considerations include:

• Ensuring your pet has plenty of fresh water to drink
• Monitoring your pet for signs of heat stress such as rapid panting
• Never leaving pets in parked cars for any amount of time
• Offering your pet a means to cool down such as a wading pool or damp towel

For more information on how to keep your pet safe this summer, contact your local veterinarian.

Working Safe

As the humidex rises, those who work outdoors are encouraged to take necessary actions including:

• Drink extra water
• Increase breaks out of the sun
• Modify work duties to prevent heat illness

For safety tips and guidelines for employees working in hot conditions, visit the Government of Saskatchewan’s Working Outdoors page.

Saskatoon Transit Safe Bus Program

As always, Saskatoon Transit offers the Safe Bus Program designed to assist anyone, of any age, that needs immediate shelter or needs to contact emergency services. If you need help, safely flag down a bus or go to a parked bus. Transit operators can contact emergency services directly through the on-bus radio system and will give the person in need a safe place to wait.

Smart Yard and Garden Watering

During heat waves, there is increased water usage. The City encourages residents to be water wise by watering your lawn and trees early in the morning and skip windy days to minimize evaporation. Smart watering helps the environment and can save you money during hot summer months. Follow these quick lawn care tips to be more efficient with your water and learn more ways to be water wise.

For more information about the Saskatoon Extreme Heat Emergency Response plan and how to stay safe during extreme heat, visit saskatoon.ca/heat. 
 

Flip Flip hurraaaay! The 47^th Annual Civic Pancake Breakfast is next week with all proceeds from this annual fundraiser donated to United Way Saskatoon & Area for all the great work they do in our community. Mayor Charlie Clark, City Councillors and other celebrity pancake flippers will be in attendance! Bring your friends and plan to attend!

Event Details
Date: Thursday, June 15, 2023
Time: Breakfast served 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Location: Held outside rain or shine in Civic Square at 23^rd Street, beside City Hall
Cost: $7 pancake breakfast includes choice of toppings, sausages, coffee & juice
Payment method: Cash or Debit card

Expect an exciting lineup with Saskatoon Police Service and Saskatoon Fire Department vehicle displays, information booths, an entertainment stage with radio host Matt Bradley from Saskatoon Media Group as our MC, dancers, musicians, furry mascots (including Bruiser from the Saskatoon Rush and Poke Check from the Saskatoon Blades), the always anticipated wellness activity/relay race and more.

Back for this year – our Act of Kindness Board! 

The Saskatoon City Employees Credit Union and the City of Saskatoon have partnered to bring back the Act of Kindness Board to this year's Civic Pancake Breakfast. As we know, kindness is needed now more than ever. Consider buying an extra $7 ticket for someone in our community in need of a hot breakfast on June 15. The proceeds from unused tickets will go to United Way Saskatoon & Area.

This event is always butter... and better with the kind and generous support of our valued 2023 Sponsors:

CUPE 59
Federated Coop (FCL)
Saskatoon City Employees Credit Union
Saskatoon Media Group
Rawlco Radio
Sheraton Cavalier
Van Houtte Coffee Services
Discover Saskatoon
Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce
Handy Special Event Rentals
IAFF80 Saskatoon Firefighters Union
Saskatoon Civic Middle Management Association (SCMMA)
Complete Technologies
Vendasta

Help spread the word and bring your friends and family or your work team to this fun community fundraising event on Thursday, June 15. As always, the pancake breakfast kicks off what is sure to be a great summer in Saskatoon!

Visit saskatoon.ca/pancakes for more information.

Direct bus service from the Special Events Stop (23rd Street and 2nd Avenue) to see Nickelback at  SaskTel Centre  on Thursday, June 22 at 6:30 p.m., is available at the following times:   

• 5:10 p.m.
• 5:30 p.m.
• 5:50 p.m.
• 6:10 p.m.  
• 6:30 p.m.  

Post event drop-off is the downtown terminal and regular fares apply ($3.00 per trip). Fare can be purchased on your mobile phone using either the TGo or transit app, transfers and passes are also accepted.    
 
Plan your trip to events at SaskTel Centre on Route 333 using the Transit  app up to two weeks in advance.  
 
Transit service times for special events at SaskTel Centre and other popular destinations can always be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca/plan-my-trip/popular-destinations. Experience the convenience of using Saskatoon Transit to attend all your favourite events.  

Direct bus service from the Special Events Stop (23rd Street and 2nd Avenue) to see A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie at  SaskTel Centre  on Friday, June 16 at 8:00 p.m., is available at the following times:   

• 6:45 p.m.  
• 7:25 p.m.  

Post event drop-off is the downtown terminal and regular fares apply ($3.00 per trip). Fare can be purchased on your mobile phone using either the TGo or transit app, transfers and passes are also accepted.    
 
Plan your trip to events at SaskTel Centre on Route 333 using the Transit  app up to two weeks in advance.  
 
Transit service times for special events at SaskTel Centre and other popular destinations can always be found at SaskatoonTransit.ca/plan-my-trip/popular-destinations. Experience the convenience of using Saskatoon Transit to attend all your favourite events.  

It’s the much-anticipated May long weekend, always the kickoff to another great summer in Saskatoon!

The City will have several adjusted civic services and hours of operation on Victoria Day, Monday, May 22.

Be sure to check out what's open or closed, details on parking requirements and Saskatoon Transit holiday hours, and information on Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo, Leisure Centres, Waste Collections and more.

Check the City's detailed Victoria Day list here.

Have a safe long weekend everyone!

Monday, May 15 kicks off Spring BYXE Week! Many activities and events are planned throughout the week, including Bike to Work Day on Thursday, May 18. Local advocacy group, Saskatoon Cycles, is coordinating the events in partnership with the City, including the #BYXE Week scavenger hunt and Great Saskatoon Bike Passport Adventure.

Cycling is a convenient and low-cost form of everyday transportation that benefits Saskatoon by decreasing traffic congestion, noise and air pollution. Riding a bike is also great for physical and mental health; regular exercise leaves you feeling refreshed, energized and alert.

Where will the ride take you? BYXE Week is a great time to grab your bikes and explore Saskatoon and all its beauty as spring blooms. The 2023 Cycling Guide is now available, visit saskatoon.ca/byxe for bike routes and safety tips.

Bike to Work Day will be held on Thursday, May 18. Commuter Stations, sponsored by local organizations and businesses, will be serving refreshments and snacks for people on bikes during their morning (7-9 a.m.) and afternoon (4-6 p.m.) commutes. 

If you live too far away to ride your bike, consider taking Saskatoon Transit part of the way. All buses are equipped with front bike racks that are free and easy to use. Racks on the front of the buses hold two bicycles on a first-come, first-served basis, accommodating tires up to 2” wide. Plan your trip using the Transit app and Google Transit.

Share your pedal adventures with #BYXE on your social media channels and we may share them on our pages, plus you will be entered to win prizes!

Visit saskatooncycles.org/byxe for details about the week-long activities planned and join our Facebook Event for updates!

Attention all Saskatoon Transit users!  

Please be aware the Downtown Transit Terminal will undergo a short-term construction project from May 8-14, 2023. The rehabilitation work aims to fix the structural deficiencies of the road surface and missing sections of curb at the terminal. 

The project has been scheduled in May to minimize the impact on transit riders and residents. The terminal will be moved along 3rd Avenue from 23rd Street to 24th Street with minimal effects on transit service and schedules. Wayfinding will be available to help locate transfers and buses, and transit staff will be on hand to assist. 

Please note the sidewalks on both sides of the existing terminal will stay open, and the Transit Customer Service Centre will maintain regular hours of operation. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to make improvements. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at transit.services@saskatoon.ca or 306.975.3100. Thank you for your cooperation and support. 

Some of Saskatoon’s most travelled roads are scheduled for major upgrades this summer. Construction projects will include resurfacing the west bound lanes of Circle Drive North between Millar Avenue and Alberta Avenue, and resurfacing sections of Preston Avenue between Preston Crossing and 8th Street.

“There are several areas of Preston Avenue that are in rough shape and in need of new asphalt,” says Terry Schmidt, General Manager of Transportation and Construction. “We’ll also get to Wanuskewin Road to resurface both sides between 71st Street and Penner Road.” 

Many roads will be completely resurfaced following water main replacements. Replacing the decades old water mains with durable PVC piping will continue in several areas of Saskatoon, including Downtown.

“Downtown water main replacement work will happen in phases throughout the summer and fall to avoid closing several blocks at the same time, starting with 22nd Street East between 3rd Avenue and 4th Avenue.” 

About $67.19 million is earmarked for road and bridge construction and maintenance in 2023. One of the most significant construction zones is already set up on the Circle Drive North Bridge where crews are now two months into a nine-month long rehabilitation project. Sidewalk repairs and annual street maintenance programs like street sweeping, pothole and utility cut repairs, and line painting are now underway or about to start.

Also, this month, the Saskatoon Transit Downtown Terminal will be undergoing road and sidewalk work. For approximately one week, the Terminal will temporarily move to 3rd Avenue North, in front of City Hall. Bus stop locations will be marked in advance.

Saskatoon Light & Power (SL&P) is already working Downtown, upgrading the underground electrical vault on the west side of 2nd Avenue between 21st Street and 22nd Street. Work began in late April and is scheduled for completion by mid-June. This is a cornerstone project that will allow SL&P to proceed with additional electrical renewal projects to update Downtown power infrastructure.

Despite some street closures due to construction, Schmidt says Downtown businesses will remain open and accessible by sidewalk.

“There will be pedestrian and traffic detours Downtown and throughout the city all summer. We thank residents for their patience and are asking everyone to respect work zones.”

For more information on current and future construction, please visit saskatoon.ca/construction.

Saskatoon Transit has received the prestigious 2023 Smart Cities Award for its partnership with Preteckt, an Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology company, to enhance Transit’s bus maintenance operations. The award recognizes Saskatoon Transit’s innovative use of Preteckt’s AI-powered predictive maintenance with its bus operations.

“We want to provide better reliability with even safer vehicles on the road,” says Tracey Davis, Saskatoon Transit Maintenance Manager. “This technology works with our existing systems at Saskatoon Transit and is a great application of AI to bus maintenance. This technology developed by Preteckt detects issues in buses before they become critical interruptions to service and empowers our technicians to make these repairs earlier than currently possible. We noticed immediate benefits, like reductions in parts and labour costs, which will become part of our regular maintenance practices.”

“Being the first city fleet in Canada to source our technology through a competitive process means a lot to us, and we’re looking forward to working with more fleets and cities in Canada,” says Krish Inbarajan, CEO of Preteckt. Inbarajan congratulated Saskatoon Transit on its leadership in incorporating AI technology into its maintenance operation.

Preteckt’s expansion into transit authorities across North America has been successful, with 10 commercial contracts and several pilots already underway. The company’s AI technology sifts through billions of data points from vehicles to identify or flag potential maintenance issues.

The Saskatoon Transit – Preteckt partnership highlights integration of advanced technology and will be essential to providing reliable, safe, and efficient transportation services.

About Preteckt

Preteckt is a Hamilton-founded, Memphis-based AI company focused on maintenance to increase vehicle availability, improve safety, and reduce costs to support maintenance staff and enable the future of work. The technology was initially developed for trucking but has since expanded to serve other fleets such as transit and school buses. Preteckt supports existing gas and diesel engines and is bringing its technology to electric vehicles in partnership with several fleets. The Preteckt team is passionate to serve the maintainers in the industry. Maintenance, maintainers, and digital workflow is its initial focus area.