Phase Two of the Saskatoon Freeway functional planning study public engagement was completed from February 16 to March 2, 2021. This phase of public engagement focused on the portion of the freeway, which will run from the South Saskatchewan River to Highway 11 South, and will include connections with Highways 5, 11, 16 and 41.
Construction of the Saskatoon Freeway is expected to be a 4-lane, 55-kilometre divided highway beginning at Highway 11 south of Saskatoon and connecting with Highway 7 west of the city. Planning for an infrastructure project of this magnitude begins many years in advance of construction. Construction is not anticipated to begin for at least another 15 years.
The Freeway team will analyze the feedback as it prepares to move onto the third phase of engagement, which will focus on the western portion of the project.
The information gathered will help finalize the functional planning study, allowing the Ministry of Highways to more accurately identify what land is needed for construction. This will result in the removal of some land restrictions that have been put in place to accommodate the 500-metre-wide corridor, reducing the amount of land held by 75 per cent.
The final study will also help those living near the route better understand how their land will be impacted.
Once complete, the ministry will begin detailed planning and development work with municipalities and other key stakeholders.