SASKATOON — The City of Saskatoon wants to hear the public's ideas as they embark on the first phase of engagement for the Downtown Event and Entertainment District.
"The public is invited to come on the journey with us to create a thriving downtown built around great public gathering spaces and amenities,” said Technical Services Director Dan Willems.
In November 2018, City Council instructed the administration to plan for a downtown event centre/arena and a new or expanded convention centre as part of a Downtown Event & Entertainment District.
After a public consultation in November 2022, City Council approved the purchase of the Midtown Shopping Centre North Parking Lot as the site for the future Downtown Event Centre/Arena.
The city is now seeking public input on what to incorporate into the design of the district, the new event centre/arena and the new or expanded convention centre and outdoor public space so that they are welcoming, inviting, and accessible to all who visit or live in Saskatoon.
Stantec, HOK and LMN have been hired to create conceptual designs for the new event centre/arena, convention centre, and surrounding outdoor spaces.
From April 27 to May 18, the public is invited to share their thoughts through an opt-in online public survey, pop-up "storefronts" at malls and other convenient locations, and community-led workshops. The complete listing of engagement opportunities is available on saskatoon.ca/engage.
The initial ideas, feedback and an early funding strategy will be presented to City Council's Governance & Priorities Committee in July 2023.
After direction from Council, the city will return to the public in the summer and late fall-early winter to get further thoughts and feedback. Final draft designs will be presented to City Council for a decision, expected by the end of 2023.
The city staff is working on a comprehensive District Plan that will establish the Downtown as a hub for entertainment and culture, with vibrant spaces that are welcoming for everyone and attractive for new residential development.
The District Plan will also guide the designs for the surrounding streets, parks and other public spaces to be accessible to all residents and visitors.
Details, including the complete Downtown Event and Entertainment District background, timelines and decisions, are available at saskatoon.ca/eventdistrict.
