Saskatoon Construction

[swilley]

Originally Posted by studentview

I was lucky enough to get on the roof of the saskatoon square building with my job and take a couple pictures of the downtown.

Still waiting.......

[shmakim]

Originally Posted by psych1

The problem is that materials have changed, the construction methods of the past are far too labour intensive and therefore expensive, and many of the required tradespeople (e.g. masons) are in short supply, so builders who "recreate" older style building usually have to cut back somewhere and you end up with a cheap imitation. I recall reading about a man trying to build an accurate recreation of a Sears catalogue house from the early 1900's and it was costing him something like double what an ordinary modern house would cost due to woodwork and plaster etc.

As an example of what happens when you try to recreate history on a budget, the originally brick church on 25th street had at some point been covered with stucco which eventually failed. When they repaired it they laudably tried to return some of the original character by using brick accents at corners and base. However, for some reason (I don't have personal knowledge of actual reason, but one would have to assume cost and ease of application were prominent), they elected to use a modern styrofoam product, that from a distance looks like brick. So the church looks great from a distance (ie. driving down 25th), but if you walk by it, you can see it is fake. The same is true of many of the new, old style stucco, going up on retail buildings. It looks traditional from a distance, but fake up close. This imitation-old style looks especially ridiculous when built new in a strip mall (as do in my opinion, urban styled coffee shops like Starbucks). Since we want to encourage up close interaction with architecture, it is unfair to deceive in this way and it leaves the buidlings feeling somewhat hollow IMHO. Of course, this is pretty philosophical on my part, and I haven't thought through the implications completely, but I think it is a relevant consideration. I would rather an honest modern structure than a fake historical one, although I love true historical buildings ( I live in one), or ones that have been carefully renovated with a truly modern sensibility (I work in one).

The idea of falsifying the look of new buildings to look like old sounds a little like the MacKenzie Towne development in Calgary. When I first looked at that neighbourhood, it seemed like a theme park version of a neighbourhood: little roundabouts instead of intersections, row housing condos, brightly coloured front doors, all the shops organized on "High Street".... kinda weirded me out, but MacKenzie Towne (and other projects that followed) has become tremendously popular. I think, however, this may be the "new urban" design, rather than the kitchy decorations.

I also remember there was some discussion of trying to mix new buildings into old neighbourhoods on this board a while ago, and somebody pointed to a marvellous architecture article insisting that we NOT try to fake the past's style, and instead pay tribute to the style's of our own time. Unfortunately, for condos to truly look like modern warehouses, they'd have tin cladding on the outside. Yoikes....

Here's the article, maybe many of you will remember it:

http://www.canadianarchitect.com/Issues/...143823&issue=11012007&PC=&RType=&btac=no

THIS is the article that needs to be sent to the S-P editor and city planners, when considering a design plan.

[nook]

I was told by a friend to visit the "Hooters" canada, website, and from the looks of it, it looks like Saskatoon is getting a Hooters.

Anyone heard anything on this? Where it would go, etc?

My guess would be Eighth Street, judging by the proximity to the college crowd.

[CCF]

Originally Posted by nook

I was told by a friend to visit the "Hooters" canada, website, and from the looks of it, it looks like Saskatoon is getting a Hooters.

Anyone heard anything on this? Where it would go, etc?

My guess would be Eighth Street, judging by the proximity to the college crowd.

Its said "Coming Soon" to Saskatchewan for about a year now.....if it actually does come, I hope you guys get it.

[joelpiecowye]

Nailing down new territory
High number of housing starts means growth in areas surrounding Saskatoon
Cassandra Kyle, The StarPhoenix
Published: Thursday, January 10, 2008
A high demand for homes in Saskatoon has cut residential development in two new neighbourhoods in half and accelerated the city's planning to bring new lots on stream.

Initially expected to take between eight and 10 years to complete, Willowgrove, which is a city development, and Stonebridge, which is a Dundee Developments project, will now be built out within four to five years, said city planning branch manager Lorne Sully.

The speed at which the construction is taking place has also spurred the city's lot development program, Sully explained.


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Font:****"In a phrase, we're taking a long look at our future growth estimates, we're taking a look at our annexation program to see where we need land and when we need to bring it into the city boundary," he said.

"In essence, knowing that Willowgrove and Stonebridge are going to be built out in about half their forecast time, we're already working on the next new neighbourhoods in the northeast and potentially the west. Those are the challenges we're looking at, and we're meeting the test."

According to a Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) housing starts report released Wednesday, in 2007, construction started on 2,380 homes in the Saskatoon census metropolitan area (CMA), which includes the surrounding communities. The starts, nearly a 60 per cent increase over 2006, include 710 single-detached and multi-family homes built in areas outside city limits.

With CMHC predicting strong housing starts in the Saskatoon CMA in 2008, the City of Saskatoon is working with region officials to prepare for the future, Sully said. The maintenance and construction of roadways in and out of the city is a hot topic.

"We're currently in discussion with the Rural Municipality of Corman Park about district planning and development in the region overall, and I'm sure that question will surface," he said, adding infrastructure costs have spiked in recent years. The city is looking for provincial and federal government funding for projects such as a proposed south bridge.

"There are plans in place for all of those roadways, all of those infrastructure projects, in the sense of we know where those projects need to be and we have the locations and in some cases we have the designs complete," he said.

With indicators pointing to continued growth for the city, some think the construction of outlying suburban neighbourhoods is not the answer to a sustainable Saskatoon. Avi Akkerman, a University of Saskatchewan geography professor, believes the downtown core and inner-city need to become a residential and commercial hub before the population moves outward. Urban transportation, he says, is imploding the operations of North American cities.

"The reason why we have transportation within the city is to facilitate access, and what's been happening over the last 50, 60 years is that urban transportation has been preventing access, and this is continuing," Akkerman said.

"The more we build transportation infrastructure for cars, the more cars we can expect to have in the city and the same problems will just recur and return in 20, 30 years time. I think we need to have a long-term vision which really calls for stepping back and trying to focus on the downtown and the inner-city."At the moment, several condo-conversions are taking place in the city's core, and projects, such as the River Landing development, are set to capitalize on a renewed focus on the downtown zone.

"The city is, I think, doing the right thing, I'm just afraid some harsh critics of the city might say, 'It's too little, too late.' I don't believe it's ever too late, it's better now than never, but I do agree that it might not be enough and the city should seek more spaces for residential development and encourage developers to come downtown," Akkerman said.

In December, housing starts in the Saskatoon CMA jumped 35 per cent over December 2006 starts, to 151 from 112. CMHC's senior market analyst in Saskatchewan, Paul Caton, said 2007 was a blockbuster year for new home construction in the province. He expects the trend to continue this year, but in a less frenzied pace than the past 12 months. We should see solid starts and housing market performance throughout 2008, but the pace shouldn't be as hectic as what we saw this year with builders trying to catch up," Caton said. "Actually, what I think (builders) will be doing more than anything else is trying to finish those units that are under construction."

Of the 151 housing starts in the CMA, 109 were single-detached homes and the remaining 42 were multiple-family units.

[swilley]

Re: Lake Placid and River Landing
From City of Saskatoon Website

Council Agenda for January 14:

Sale and Development of River Landing Parcel “Y”

City Council will be asked to approve an agreement with Lake Placid River Landing Inc. for the sale of Parcel “Y”, River Landing Phase I, and the development of an “Urban Village” on the site. The sale agreement includes a price of $4.765M, and a requirement that Lake Placid receive approvals for the final proposal and design from both the City of Saskatoon and the Meewasin Valley Authority by October 31, 2008.

19th Street Connections and Pathways

City Council will be asked to receive information from Administration on the 19th Street reconfiguration, pathways, and parking project. The project was re-tendered following a review of the design, and the low tender was issued by SaskCon for $5.4 million. Complete project costs is estimated to be $7.3M which incorporates work already completed on 19th Street including the replacement and relocation of underground utilities and the temporary re-surfacing of the roadway. Construction is scheduled to begin in May 2008 with completion scheduled for late fall. Removal of the overpass bridge and the reconfiguration of the roadway will require the closure of 19th Street for much of the year, and the temporary closure of the 1st Avenue access to the Idylwyld Freeway.

[midnightrambler]

Originally Posted by Country

Interesting view that populating the warehouse district is killing downtown (or at least preventing construction of new residential highrises, which I think that's what you're getting at?) For me it's quite the contrary, I see the revival of the warehouse district, and the loft conversions along 24th as a huge boost to all of Downtown. I've always seen the warehouse district as part of downtown, and strategies to populate both as basically one and the same. We've heard it all before, more people downtown (including warehouse district)= more retail/amenities= greater livability/desirability for downtown, which could in turn= more residential highrises in the core. And just perhaps, more highrises of the commercial type that we're all waiting for.

It's great to hear that Saskatoon Square is full. Perhaps this is a signal that developers should be picking up on.. Saskatoon's largest office tower is packed. Bring on more Class A space!

As for the Willowgrove urban village I'm a bit on the fence. The concept is great but I'll wait and see if the design of the stores and residential is any less suburban than elsewhere. I don't see it as being any significant threat to downtown. It's kind of neat to think that with Willowgrove, there's a neighborhood under construction, that in 100 years, will likely be considered a mature, desirable character neighborhood. But then again, who knows what will be desirable a century from now.

The whole concept is definitely unique to Saskatoon. I just wish it had been envisioned for a place such as the entire city yard or somewhere where it's going to fit into the existent urban fabric. It just seems funny to have a walkable, ped-friendly neighborhood that is out on the city's edge and requires driving to get to (or to and from downtown). All in all, I think it's a step forward.

I simply meant that condo conversions hamper construction in regards to new developments in addition to condo neighbourhoods. I still do think that the warehouse district needs improvement, and the city is moving in the right direction. In fact, there should be a plan in place to remove all the railroad tracks and the eyesore Flour Mill... sorry folks, it's an eyesore. Development of that area should then proceed in the next 10-15 Years. First of all they need to get going on the 25th Street expansion, I don't believe there is much disagreement there.

[midnightrambler]

...and when I say in the next 10-15 years I mean lets get river landing finished first, and bulldoze the capri...

[Ruckus]

Originally Posted by joelpiecowye

Nailing down new territory
High number of housing starts means growth in areas surrounding Saskatoon
Cassandra Kyle, The StarPhoenix
Published: Thursday, January 10, 2008

.........................

With indicators pointing to continued growth for the city, some think the construction of outlying suburban neighbourhoods is not the answer to a sustainable Saskatoon. Avi Akkerman, a University of Saskatchewan geography professor, believes the downtown core and inner-city need to become a residential and commercial hub before the population moves outward. Urban transportation, he says, is imploding the operations of North American cities.

"The reason why we have transportation within the city is to facilitate access, and what's been happening over the last 50, 60 years is that urban transportation has been preventing access, and this is continuing," Akkerman said.

"The more we build transportation infrastructure for cars, the more cars we can expect to have in the city and the same problems will just recur and return in 20, 30 years time. I think we need to have a long-term vision which really calls for stepping back and trying to focus on the downtown and the inner-city."At the moment, several condo-conversions are taking place in the city's core, and projects, such as the River Landing development, are set to capitalize on a renewed focus on the downtown zone.

"The city is, I think, doing the right thing, I'm just afraid some harsh critics of the city might say, 'It's too little, too late.' I don't believe it's ever too late, it's better now than never, but I do agree that it might not be enough and the city should seek more spaces for residential development and encourage developers to come downtown," Akkerman said.

More fuel for our fire, or as some critics might say, "It's too little, too late".

[Ruckus]

Originally Posted by nook

I was told by a friend to visit the "Hooters" canada, website, and from the looks of it, it looks like Saskatoon is getting a Hooters.

Anyone heard anything on this? Where it would go, etc?

My guess would be Eighth Street, judging by the proximity to the college crowd.

Maybe Regina will get it?

8th Street or possibly Downtown.

Existing sports pubs/bars on 8th Street East include Boston Pizza, Maguires and formerly Flatlanders but they closed their doors several months ago.

Downtown has Joe's Sports Bar, Winstons...hmmm, can't think of any other sports bars.

[psych1]

Originally Posted by SASKFTW

Maybe Regina will get it?

Here's hoping there's only one and it goes to Regina

[Ruckus]

Originally Posted by psych1

Here's hoping there's only one and it goes to Regina

No love for Hooters?

Only real cities have hooters

[CCF]

Originally Posted by psych1

Here's hoping there's only one and it goes to Regina

Not fair! I already wished it upon you guys!

[Echoes]

Originally Posted by midnightrambler

I simply meant that condo conversions hamper construction in regards to new developments in addition to condo neighbourhoods. I still do think that the warehouse district needs improvement, and the city is moving in the right direction. In fact, there should be a plan in place to remove all the railroad tracks and the eyesore Flour Mill... sorry folks, it's an eyesore. Development of that area should then proceed in the next 10-15 Years. First of all they need to get going on the 25th Street expansion, I don't believe there is much disagreement there.

Nope, there's no disagreement about getting a move on with the 25th extension.

As for the Robin Hood mill I have to disagree with you. I respect your opinion, but in my view it's a city landmark that deserves to remain part of the city's skyline more than most of the brick pile highrises downtown. Sure the area around the mill could used to be cleaned up but I think it would be a damn shame if it were knocked over. I love the sheer monstrosity of the facility. Surely it's one of the tallest points in the city too. And I don't want to know a world where's there's no big red Robin Hood sign lighting up the night sky!

On top of that it has a historic, industrial character that just isn't seen today. I'm happy it's there and I think it gives the area that urban grit, industrial look that helps to make the area charactered and unique.. a definite selling point for future loft/condo residents IMO.

Personally, I love it!

[joelpiecowye]

Screen Giant Outdoor Video Billboard Now at Home on the Y in Downtown Saskatoon
CALGARY, ALBERTA--(Marketwire - Jan. 11, 2008) - Screen Giant Media Corp., a specialty digital advertising subsidiary of Heritage Media Corporation (PINKSHEETS:HMCP), today announced that it has installed, and is now operating, a state-of-the-art digital video billboard in Saskatoon, the provincial capitol of Saskatchewan.

The billboard is in place on a highly visible outside wall of the downtown YMCA, which is located at the busy intersection of Idylwyld Drive and 22nd Street. Traffic counts indicate from 60,000 to 70,000 impressions per day. Screen Giant Media has entered into a ten-year deal with the YMCA for advertising purposes.

Measuring 24 feet long by 15.5 feet tall, and displaying 896 X 576 pixels, the high-resolution full-color LED screen regularly receives rave reviews from people who view it.

Screen Giant Media provides customized advertising opportunities for blue chip organizations like Westjet Airlines, Warner Brothers, Coca Cola and Alberta Treasury Branches. These organizations have benefited from increased exposure and message retention as a direct result of this new digital medium.

About Heritage & Screen Giant

Heritage Media Corporation, through its subsidiary Screen Giant Media Corporation, engages in the strategic placement of large, multimedia video billboards and the subsequent management of all programming content. Established in 2003, Screen Giant has moved quickly to become an industry leader in digital advertising and promotions. Discover more about this innovative company at www.screengiant.com.

i dont know if u noticed it said saskatoon is the capital of saskatchewan

[Jerry]

A Potential New Buyer For Barry Hotel

By Tim Amey
Updated January 11, 2008 - 4:03pm

There is a new application for a liquor license for Saskatoon's most imfamous Hotel.

And Barry Hotel owner Shoshana Goldstien admits there are interested buyers.

Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority spokesperson David Morris confirms an application was made January 2nd.

But he can't reveal who made the application until it's approved.

Late last year the city of Saskatoon looked into buying the 20th street landmark with the idea of demolishing it, but backed out over environmental concerns.

Owner Shoshana Goldstein says one person was interested, but alleges he backed off after Councillor Pat Lorje called him to say the city would never grant a liquor license.

News Talk 650 article


It will be very interesting to see where this goes.

[Jonitecture]

so, Regina and Winnipeg have a wish list page, anyone want to make one for us? i'm not too sure how to make one.

[Ruckus]

City may ask public for input on new plans
The StarPhoenix
Published: Saturday, January 12, 2008

Brainstorming on the future of riverbank land located south of Persephone Theatre will resume, pending city council's approval.

Much like the concrete wall on the south side of the new Persephone Theatre, plans for an adjoining destination complex have remained a blank slate in the River Landing development.

City council on Monday is expected to decide whether the public will be asked for its views on plans for a new destination complex.

The new proposal for public consultation maintains the original south downtown plan, which called for "a public facility that would function as a destination attraction."

It adds the design should include input from the community.

"We're trying to determine what would be the ideal set of structures, facilities and organizations that will fit the mandate of the site, but we do have some general direction of the principals and objectives that we'd like to achieve," said Chris Dekker, the city's special projects manager. "Now all we need is the OK."

Among the ideas for the future of the land includes Tourism Saskatoon's recommendation for a Joni Mitchell Centre for Discovery, as well as a River Landing Interpretive Centre proposed by the Meewasin Valley Authority.

Susan Lamb, CEO of the MVA, thinks an organization or company with a plan to run a public building that operates outside of the nine to five workday would be an ideal candidate.

She could also see a new company nesting in the building, as long as it is established financially and has plans to make the place a public attraction.

"We don't mind a fledgling company coming in on this project," she said. "What we don't want is an egg."

There will be no preliminary plans or estimated costs released until city council agrees with the consultation report.

Todd Brandt, president and CEO of Tourism Saskatoon, agrees the proposed facility should function for 24-7 service. He says Tourism Saskatoon is hoping for something that would harness some of the talented artists in the community.

"There's a number of elements that could come into this complex based around music and creativity," said Brandt. "There's a wealth of talent in Saskatoon, and quite frankly, I think it gives us the flexibility to bring in business activity to the attraction itself. It will lend itself to sustainability in the long-term."

Source

[Ruckus]

Originally Posted by Jerry

A Potential New Buyer For Barry Hotel

By Tim Amey
Updated January 11, 2008 - 4:03pm

There is a new application for a liquor license for Saskatoon's most imfamous Hotel.

And Barry Hotel owner Shoshana Goldstien admits there are interested buyers.

Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority spokesperson David Morris confirms an application was made January 2nd.

But he can't reveal who made the application until it's approved.

Late last year the city of Saskatoon looked into buying the 20th street landmark with the idea of demolishing it, but backed out over environmental concerns.

Owner Shoshana Goldstein says one person was interested, but alleges he backed off after Councillor Pat Lorje called him to say the city would never grant a liquor license.

News Talk 650 article


It will be very interesting to see where this goes.

I really feel like the city wants it demolished.

Not sure on the likelihood of SLGA denying a liquor license for the applicant (Barry Hotel is currently selling/serving alcohol right?). However, if city officials push SLGA towards denial of a liquor license, perhaps SLGA will fall in line

[swilley]

Originally Posted by Country

And I don't want to know a world where's there's no big red Robin Hood sign lighting up the night sky!

I completely agree, My fathers claim to fame is that one of his first jobs was at a sign making company, and he was the guy that often went up there and had to change the light bulbs. If only he had took a camera with him, we could of had a cool skyline shot from about 40 years ago....