After nearly a decade of planning and consultation, significant changes are coming to First Avenue to make way for Saskatoon’s future bus rapid transit (BRT) system through the downtown core.

 

In our submission to City Council’s Transportation Committee, we affirmed our long-held view that First Avenue remains the best option for BRT through downtown given the alternatives. When compared to other avenues, First Avenue has the fewest number of private enterprises that open directly onto the street. For those that do, there are adjacent or on-site alternate access points for customers, employees and/or deliveries.

 

But there are exceptions, like the Capitol Music Club. For this Chamber Member, no front-street parking or loading zones could mean lights out — a potential loss for its owners, employees, customers, and all of downtown. 

 

The Committee agreed and — thanks to a motion by Ward 5 City Councillor Randy Donauer — transportation officials have been directed to address these problems so the Capitol, and other businesses, can continue to contribute to the vibrancy and safety of First Avenue into the future. 

 

The Chamber thanks the City’s Transportation and Construction division for meeting with us, and Members like the Capitol, to exchange views, explore alternatives, and find a way forward.

 

More to come.