REGINA — The Regina Downtown Business Improvement District (RDBID) has secured a massive grant for its Skuare Interim Use Project.
Upon approval by city council, Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) is set to fund $920,000 towards the project first announced back in 2024. The City of Regina is required to be the signatory to the contribution agreement, per the report.
RDBID plans to use the former site of the Gordon Block and Burns Hanley building for a new interim use venue.
This venue would include a beer garden, food trucks, activations and more.
In a report, RDBID said this project will improve downtown perception, provide a positive impact for businesses, and invite more people downtown.
The potential funding would cover a large portion of the over $1.5 million investment by RDBID. The rest of the funding comes from a $500,000 Downtown Vibrancy Grant approved by Regina last year. Harvard Developments is also pitching in for tenant improvements.
Harvard Developments is the land owner, while RDBID owns and operates the Skuare.
If RDBID is successful in receiving the grant, construction for the project would continue this summer, with the space opening in the fall.
The Skuare would operate from spring to fall and would be open outside those months for special events.
Per the report, “RDBID will also explore the feasibility of having a portion of the site open during weekdays with minimal food and beverage service.”
As for tenants, RDBID will issue a "call for Interest" to find occupants for bar, retail units and food truck stalls.
City council will make a final decision on the grant on Wednesday.
