The City of Saskatoon will go ahead as planned with the construction on the east half of the Sid Buckwold Bridge and the Idylwyld Drive ramps over 19th Street on March 30th. The city acknowledges the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic. The city’s Engineering Manager of Asset Preservation, Rob Frank, says strict worksite restrictions, social distancing, and what city officials describe as other precautionary medical measures. The City of Saskatoon says there is a very limited window for construction projects like this and it is important to conduct word in the most ideal seasonal conditions.
From March 30 until mid-October, the northbound lanes heading into downtown will be closed and two-way traffic will be accommodated in the southbound lanes. The bridge walkway and stairs will also be closed for construction. The Meewasin trails will remain open, however there may be a closure directly under the south side of the bridge for a portion of the construction season. You can expect to see signage indicating how to navigate the construction, as well, traffic light timing will be altered to try and keep traffic moving. You also won’t be able to turn left off Idylwyld onto 20th but a U-turn is being installed at Auditorium Avenue.
The Sid Buckwold Bridge rehabilitation project includes:
- Resurfacing of the Idylwyld Drive ramps over 19th Street
- Walkway widening with taller barriers for improved pedestrian protection
- New drainage system to help better traction by reducing puddles and splashing
- Concrete deck repairs and asphalt replacement
- Strengthening of piers
- Barrier replacement
