Downtown Projects and Initiatives
The economic and cultural heart of any city is its Downtown.
A vibrant downtown supports a strong economy, creates a sense of community, and provides a place for people to come together, in addition to attracting more people to live Downtown.
Projects & Initiatives
Downtown Event & Entertainment District
The development of an animated event and entertainment district, anchored by a new arena and convention centre, will stimulate the economy and bring renewed energy and life to Saskatoon’s Downtown. By offering residents and visitors a gathering place for entertainment and events, with an exciting variety of restaurants, venues, shopping and nightlife, new jobs will be created, investment generated, and opportunities for local entrepreneurs will be made available.
Bus Rapid Transit
The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system will enable high capacity, high frequency access to the Downtown from across the city and reduce the reliance on vehicle use and area parking spaces. The BRT system’s Downtown stations, centrally located on 1st Avenue, will feature modern and comfortable amenities and public art that reflects the diversity of Saskatoon. The stations will be designed to move a high volume of people to and from the Downtown in a safe, efficient and sustainable way.
Imagine Idylwyld
The Imagine Idylwyld project will improve the function, safety, connectivity and quality of the roadway and public realm along Idylwyld Drive between 20th Street and 25th Street East - a key gateway into Saskatoon’s City Centre bordered by four core neighbourhoods and two Business Improvement Districts (BIDs).
Downtown Active Transportation Network
The Downtown Active Transportation Network Plan will provide more choices for moving around the Downtown by addressing needs for cycling, walking and other modes of active transportation.
Permanent Outdoor Festival Site
A permanent outdoor festival site will provide a respectful, accessible and centrally located venue for a wide range of festivals, tourism events and every-day urban living.
Meewasin Trail Enhancements
Meewasin Valley Authority's Downtown Trail & Site Enhancements Project includes enhancements to 1.5 km of existing primary Meewasin Trail and adjacent areas through Friendship Park, Kiwanis Memorial Park and the trail connection under the University Bridge.
Saskatoon Central Library
By supporting citizens in various educational and social pursuits, a new central library will help build community and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
River Landing
The development of River Landing presents an exciting social, cultural and commercial focus in one of Canada’s fastest growing communities - a showcase and lasting legacy for the citizens of Saskatoon, the people of Saskatchewan, and proud Canadians.
Farmers' Marketing Building at River Landing
The proposed vision for the Farmers’ Market Building is an animated public facility with vendor spaces and dedicated farmers’ market days. This vision includes the building being fully utilized and open to the public six days per week, year-round.
Attainable Housing and Support Initiatives
Through partnerships and incentives, the City will continue to work with community partners to provide safe, affordable housing for all. A stronger community that cares for all leads in turn to stronger economic drivers by making the area safer for residents, visitors and businesses.
City Centre Plan
The City Centre Plan represents the ongoing commitment by the City to ensure Saskatoon's Downtown and major connecting corridors maintains and expands its level of importance and stature, and meets the needs and expectations of the community as we move towards a population of 500,000.
Kinsmen Park Master Plan
The Kinsmen Park and Area Master Plan will transform the park into a memorable and enjoyable place for all ages and abilities year-round, while continuing to support local communities and the growing downtown population. The Master Plan sets the framework to guide detailed design of the park and area over the next 25 years.