Final phase of Sid Buckwold Bridge construction to proceed, starting March 30
While the City of Saskatoon acknowledges the severity of the COVID-19 virus and the impact it is having on the community, the City and its construction partners will proceed as planned with the construction on the east half of the Sid Buckwold Bridge and the Idylwyld Drive ramps over 19th Street.
This project is an essential service to residents and core City infrastructure. With a very limited window for construction projects of this magnitude, it is important that such work is completed safely and in the most ideal seasonal conditions. Construction is scheduled to begin on Monday, March 30.
“Safety for our crews and for residents is our number one priority during this project,” says Rob Frank, Engineering Manager of Asset Preservation. “Strict worksite restrictions, social distancing, and other precautionary medical measures will be in place to protect both construction crews and residents and to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 virus.”
Major rehabilitation began on the 54-year-old structure last year to ensure it remains safe and structurally sound for years to come. Two-way traffic will be maintained throughout construction, however lane restrictions and traffic delays are expected.
From March 30 until mid-October, the northbound lanes heading into downtown will be closed and two-way traffic will be accommodated in the southbound lanes. The bridge walkway and stairs will also be closed for construction. The Meewasin trails will remain open, however there may be a closure directly under the south side of the bridge for a portion of the construction season.
The Sid Buckwold Bridge rehabilitation project includes:
- Resurfacing of the Idylwyld Drive ramps over 19th Street
- Walkway widening with taller barriers for improved pedestrian protection
- New drainage system to help better traction by reducing puddles and splashing
- Concrete deck repairs and asphalt replacement
- Strengthening of piers
- Barrier replacement
The City’s preservation plan, with the results of the Deck Testing Program, identified the need to rehabilitate the bridge. The project was phased over two years to allow two-way traffic over the bridge to be maintained throughout construction.
Necessary adjustments will be made to traffic signal timing and construction signage will be in place. The left turn onto 20th Street from Idylwyld Drive northbound will not be permitted, however a U-turn will be implemented at Auditorium Avenue. Updated project information is posted at Saskatoon.ca/sidbuckwold and restrictions will be listed in the Daily Road Report.
The City of Saskatoon is utilizing $15 million of its federal Gas Tax Fund (GTF) allocations towards the Sid Buckwold Bridge rehabilitation project. The GTF in Saskatchewan is administered by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations.
The City thanks drivers and pedestrians for their patience while this necessary work is carried out. Slow down, pay attention and respect work zones. Watch for pedestrians and work crews, and for everyone’s safety, please obey all detours, signs and barriers.