Saskatoon quadrupling sidewalk repair budget for 2014

SASKATOON – The City of Saskatoon will be spending $1.8 million on sidewalk repairs in 2014, nearly four times the amount spent in 2013.

The sidewalk rehabilitation program will see about six kilometres of sidewalk repaired this year, up from a total of 1.7 km last year.

Major sidewalk repairs have already been completed along Assiniboine Drive between Warman Road and Ravine Drive and Eastlake Avenue between 10th and 12th Streets.

“The new funding allows us to treat and replace sidewalk sections or panels that have significant trip hazards, extensive cracking, missing sections and severe deterioration,” said Mike Gutek, director of major projects for the city.

Gutek added the repairs will take place in conjunction with roadway projects to minimize the impact on motorist and pedestrians.

An average block in Saskatoon is 165 metres, meaning around 36 blocks can be replaced in 2014.

Future planned funding increases will allow the City to fix more sidewalks.

“With a properly funded rehabilitation program, we can improve the condition of sidewalks with patches, crack filling and replacements,” said Gutek.

“Residents will start to see sidewalk conditions improve over the next few years as funding levels increase.”