SASKATOON—The City of Saskatoon completed its third flood control project, officially reopening Weaver Park on Monday, giving residents in the Avalon neighbourhood a safer and greener community space. The project falls under the Flood Control Strategy, which aims to revitalize the dry storm pond, reducing flood risk in the area while enhancing the park’s recreational value for the public.
Weaver Park is the latest success in the city’s long-term plan to reduce flooding in the highest-risk neighbourhoods. Since the FCS was approved by the City Council in 2018, it has steadily delivered flood-mitigation infrastructure paired with public space improvements. Construction on the next dry storm pond project at Cumberland Park is set to begin this spring, with five additional projects scheduled between 2025 and 2027.
"Today marks an exciting milestone for Saskatoon’s Flood Control Strategy with the grand opening of the Weaver Park dry storm pond. This investment is about more than infrastructure, it's about protecting homes and supporting strong, resilient communities," said secretary of state for rural development Buckley Belanger, on behalf of Housing and Communities Minister Gregor Robertson.
Mayor Cynthia Block emphasized the dual benefits of the project, which is funded by $21.6 million from the Government of Canada's Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Strategy.
"This is about protecting homes and neighbourhoods while creating beautiful, functional spaces where families gather and enjoy the outdoors. It’s smart infrastructure that enhances both safety and quality of life," said Block.
“Each completed project means fewer flooded basements and fewer emergency calls. With Weaver Park open, residents can see how infrastructure and community space can work together," added Saskatoon water director Russ Munro.
Dry storm ponds are engineered basins that collect and temporarily hold excess rainwater during heavy storms, diverting it away from streets and homes. The water gradually drains through stormwater infrastructure and flows into the South Saskatchewan River. Once all FCS projects are complete, the city expects a significant reduction in flooding across the top 10 highest-risk areas in Saskatoon.
For more information on the city’s Flood Control Strategy page.
