According to a report heading to the City’s transportation committee Monday afternoon, the province has decided to cancel planning indefinitely for phase three of the Saskatoon perimeter freeway.

Phase three of the highway would wrap around the west and northwest parts of the city. Planning on the perimeter freeway, which would alleviate traffic on Circle Drive, has been in the works since 2001.

City councillors will discuss the matter with administration recommending that Mayor send a letter to the Ministry of Highways indicating how important the need of completing phase three is.

The report states that the decision from the province will see traffic volumes continue to rise on Circle Drive as the city continues to grow and that the perimeter freeway, if built, would extend the life of Circle Drive based on how it is configured today.

Phase one is almost complete with a project report and formal request of the City to endorse is expected soon.

Meanwhile, there are going to be information sessions held on phase two during the first two weeks of November. A draft report will follow in the first quarter of 2022 and a request for the City endorse the phase may follow at a future date.