Released on February 11, 2016
North Commuter Parkway and Traffic Bridge construction launch.The City of Saskatoon’s largest-ever bridge-building program is underway. Today, the City of Saskatoon, Government of Saskatchewan and Government of Canada marked the official launch of the North Commuter Parkway and new Traffic Bridge construction project.
“Investing in infrastructure is vital to creating middle class jobs today and sustained economic growth for years to come,” Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale said. “The progress of this project marks an important milestone for the City of Saskatoon, one that also further demonstrates the benefit of partnering with the private sector to deliver projects such as the North Commuter Parkway and new Traffic Bridge to help build resilient and inclusive communities in which Canadians desire to live, which is something this Government is committed to.”
“Our government is pleased to invest $50 million toward the North Commuter Parkway Bridge,” Education Minister and Saskatoon Southeast MLA Don Morgan said on behalf of Government Relations Minister Jim Reiter. “The City of Bridges’’ latest addition, the North Commuter Parkway, will serve a valuable role in reducing commute times, while also increasing capacity for Saskatoon’s future growth.”
“We’re grateful for the continuing strong partnerships with the federal and provincial governments in helping to ensure the people of Saskatoon benefit from infrastructure investments,” Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison said. “Both the Parkway and the new Traffic Bridge will shorten commute times, cut fuel costs, offer more transportation options for cyclists and pedestrians, and help grow the economy—all of which improve our quality of life.”
Through the P3 Canada Fund, the federal government will invest up to 25 per cent of eligible costs toward the project, while the Province of Saskatchewan will contribute $50 million.
Following a careful selection process, Graham Commuter Partners (GCP), is the company the City contracted to undertake the construction of the project.
“We’re pleased to be a partner in the development of this historic infrastructure project, and to be continuing our long-term relationship as a valued service provider to the City of Saskatoon,” GCP Senior Vice President, Infrastructure John Connolly said.
Preparations for the new Traffic Bridge began in December 2015. Equipment and supplies are now being mobilized to begin construction on the North Commuter Parkway. Both bridges are expected to be complete by October 2018.
More information on the project is available at www.saskatoon.ca/bridging.
For more City of Saskatoon news, program information, Service Alerts, Traffic Detours, and links to our social media channels, please visit www.saskatoon.ca.
-30-For more information, contact:
Brennen Schmidt
Government Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2687
Email: brennen.schmidt@gov.sk.ca
Mike Halstead
Media Relations
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-986-0816