Saskatoon Construction

[Ruckus]

Originally Posted by The Bess

they have a new rendering of the lighthouse project in the city council meeting on November 3. dont know how to put it on this thread though.??? sorry

Originally Posted by macca

http://saskatoon.ca/org/clerks_office/council/agendas/fa_council_031108.pdf

The design looks to be the same as previously released renderings.


Source: swilley


Source: swilley


Source: swilley


Source: Saskatoon City Council minutes

I hope they reconsider/clarify the color scheme...

[Ruckus]

Somewhat of a surprise, but a welcome one at that.

It shows that Meridian is willing and seemingly able to expand their business operations beyond building market priced housing, and could potentially lead to Meridian being involved with the full build out of the College Quarter, a huge opportunity to showcase their work.

Originally Posted by The Bess

Has anyone else seen this?

November 07, 2008
University of Saskatchewan Investigates Student Housing with Local Developer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 7, 2008
2008-11-03-OTHER

The University of Saskatchewan and Saskatoon-based Meridian Development Corp. have teamed up to explore business models for up to 200 four-bedroom new student housing units at the university. The project would be located near the Williams Building on Cumberland Avenue.

“We know on-campus housing is an important part of the student experience,” said Richard Florizone, U of S vice-president of finance and resources. “As an institution, we are determined to provide the kinds of housing options students want, need and can afford.”

The U of S invited proposals for the residence project from private-sector developers in mid-August in order to explore potential development models that would address the financial challenges associated with a student housing development, said Florizone. A number of companies came forward with proposals but Meridian’s demonstrated the strongest understanding of the particular needs related to student housing, he said.

“We’re excited to be working with the University of Saskatchewan,” said Colleen Wilson, a partner in Meridian Development Corp. “We understand the pressures on students to find affordable housing in Saskatoon, and the university’s desire to create an enriching environment and to finance and build projects like this on its own.”

Located in the heart of Saskatoon, the University of Saskatchewan is one of the leading medical doctoral universities in Canada. With 58 degrees, diplomas and certificates in over 100 areas of study, the University is uniquely positioned in the areas of human, animal and plant studies. World-class research facilities, renowned faculty and award winning students make the U of S a leader in post-secondary education.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Patty Martin, Community and Media Relations Specialist
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6919
Email: [email protected]

(Posted November 07, 2008)

U of S Partners With Local Developer
saskatoonhomepage.ca
Friday, 07 November 2008

The University of Saskatchewan will partner with Meridian Development Corporation to explore new student housing options.VP of Finance Richard Florizone told 600 Action News today the University and Meridian will explore a number of models to create about 200 four bedroom units. Florizone says its hoped the project can be completed by 2010. He says the University is looking at a public private partnership at a cost of about 45 million dollars.

Florizone says says the university hasn't built student accommodation in 30 years and it wants this to be the first phase of a number of projects.

He says the project could get started next year with a completion date of 2010..but he says a lot of work has to be done to meet the 2009 start date.The facility will be built near the Williams Building on Cumberland Avenue.

Last Updated ( Saturday, 08 November 2008 )

Source

U of S picks developer for student residence
Lana Haight, The StarPhoenix
Published: Saturday, November 08, 2008

The University of Saskatchewan has chosen a developer for its College Quarter residence complex.

Saskatoon-based Meridian Development Corp. was one of about six companies that responded to the university's call for proposals to build up to 200 four-bedroom student housing units near the Williams Building on Cumberland Avenue.

"We needed a development partner who can build housing, but we also needed a developer who understands the unique needs of the university," said U of- vice-president of finance and resources, Richard Florizone, in an interview.

The university turned to the private sector when it became clear that it alone couldn't afford to build a new student residence. The U of- residence accommodates about six per cent of the student population. That's about half the national average of residence spaces available at other post-secondary institutions. The lack of residence accommodation affects student enrolment, says Florizone.

"We know that housing is important to recruitment. We know that it leads to better retention of students. Students that stay in housing have a better student experience and are more likely to stay in university. We know that it's important to attracting out-of-province students."

University administrators and the developer will begin working on possible designs for the residence complex. They also need to settle the terms of the contract.

"We will work with (Meridian) to really define what the partnership looks like. They put forward some broad concepts in terms of financial arrangements. Now we need to clarify that and negotiate with them."

Florizone is optimistic an ambitious schedule can still be followed. In the past, he has said he hoped construction would begin next year with the building ready to house students by the fall of 2010.

[email protected]

© The StarPhoenix (Saskatoon) 2008

Source

[nook]

The colouring of the lighthouse project reminds me of the ol' colouring of the Milroy.

Gross.

Also, does anyone know what exactly is going to be in the Stonegate Shopping Centre when it's all said and done? It looks like they're still doing a lot of building down there, and the sign for the place still has lots of empty spaces.

[midnightrambler]

Originally Posted by nook

The colouring of the lighthouse project reminds me of the ol' colouring of the Milroy.

Gross.

Also, does anyone know what exactly is going to be in the Stonegate Shopping Centre when it's all said and done? It looks like they're still doing a lot of building down there, and the sign for the place still has lots of empty spaces.

I thought a four points Sheraton was going in there. And as for the Lighthouse looking like the Milroy it appears to have substantially more glass.

[macca]

Originally Posted by nook

The colouring of the lighthouse project reminds me of the ol' colouring of the Milroy.

Gross.

Also, does anyone know what exactly is going to be in the Stonegate Shopping Centre when it's all said and done? It looks like they're still doing a lot of building down there, and the sign for the place still has lots of empty spaces.

http://www.firstpro.com

Looks like we can look forward to more appetizing restaurant options, such as Taco Del Mar and Subway.

[Ruckus]

Originally Posted by nook

The colouring of the lighthouse project reminds me of the ol' colouring of the Milroy.

Gross.

Also, does anyone know what exactly is going to be in the Stonegate Shopping Centre when it's all said and done? It looks like they're still doing a lot of building down there, and the sign for the place still has lots of empty spaces.

I don't go over there often but I noticed the Investors Group building and some other commercial space being constructed...I don't recall seeing the Sheraton Four Points under construction, but during the summer I heard the foundation was already built

Also, the Urban Barn on Circle Drive north (former Compusmart) moved to Stonegate...not sure where though.

[ninipanini]

Thanks SASKFTW... I've got mixed feelings on this one (lighthouse). It's exciting to see a project this big in the works but the colour scheme is kind of unfortunate and I wish that it was a little more symmetrical instead of having that lop-sided tower on the (east?) side. But I guess anything that increases our downtown density would be a welcome addition.

[kgc087]

Well the rendering is exactly the same as the one posted on global but black and white. This structure really has the potential to be pretty amazing even keeping with most of the lines it has. It would be nice in the end to see the developer choose a differnt colour stucco like a nice taupe and dark grey or something along those lines. Either way it will be a fantastic addition to the downtown and will really boast some additional people to the area and hopefully promote more developments if this one is successful.

It's really great to see that the U of S has chosen a developer. I feel like Meridian will not let anyone down with building residences. Do you know if they are going to continue on with the original plan of townhouses all backing a lake which could be used for recreation? This will really help to secure students to come here and maybe this will cause them to build more units once these ones are complete.
As well has anyone heard anything about the animal science land plots the university has? I know they are not used anymore for animal science so are thye considering selling them for private development or leasing them?

Lastly I just wanted to comment that I have only been back in Saskatoon for about 3 months now and I really have noticed a difference from the year that I was away to now. There is ALOT more traffic at all times of the day and the city just has a more bustling feel to it. There are some REALLY positive developments happening which I think will encourage more positive developments and city beautification. As well I have noticed a significant increase in national and international interest in the city!

[jaysfan99]

Originally Posted by SASKFTW

The design looks to be the same as previously released renderings.


Source: swilley

Source: Saskatoon City Council minutes

I hope they reconsider/clarify the color scheme...

Yes, I think it looks a little scary. If they could just change a few things, it would look really good.

[circle33]

I think I'd be happier if it were all glass. I'm trying to visualize an existing building that incorporates the same cladding elements, but I'm coming up with a blank right now.

[jaysfan99]

I saw something that is going up in Calgary that would of looked perfect on 3rd ave.
I really like the glass and stone combination. A really nice looking building.



The one below is not as nice! Maybe it will look better when completed. Lets hope.

[kgc087]

I lived in calgary for the past year and a half and the sign for that building was up the whole time so who knows if it's actually being built but it would look fantastic in that spot! I think what is a miss with the 3rd Ave building besides its low stature is the white brick, its very 90's, it would have been nice to see a combo of red brick with some large unrefined tyndall to secure the base. I think that would have given it a more classic look as well as make it more timeless.

[midnightrambler]

Originally Posted by circle33

I think I'd be happier if it were all glass. I'm trying to visualize an existing building that incorporates the same cladding elements, but I'm coming up with a blank right now.

I think the five or so floors that are ugly are designed that way because of the actual lighthouse (which is capri accross from the theatre) houses some pretty interesting characters which are probably destined to make the trip over. I think that is also the reason it is built next to the cop shop. It might just be assisted living for seniors though. I'm not really sure...

[shmakim]

Originally Posted by kgc087

I lived in calgary for the past year and a half and the sign for that building was up the whole time so who knows if it's actually being built but it would look fantastic in that spot! I think what is a miss with the 3rd Ave building besides its low stature is the white brick, its very 90's, it would have been nice to see a combo of red brick with some large unrefined tyndall to secure the base. I think that would have given it a more classic look as well as make it more timeless.

Upon first seeing the rendering for the Lighthouse, I immediately thought it looked like a cross between City Hospital, with that offputting white (and the hospital is made worse, I think, with the steel/silver accents, bleah) and that government building just south of the corner of 25th and 3rd... the one with Adina's (?) restaurant in it. That building is all glass, with a sort of purple/blue tint to it, with funny shapes sticking out, though not quite so pronounced as the Lighthouse.

I don't mind the look of the purple glass, and I feel that the white really takes away from the potential of the Lighthouse. Maybe tyndall stone like you said, or just sumpin diff'rent.

[Ruckus]

Local builders unconvincing in pitch for housing project
The StarPhoenix
Published: Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Re: Pick local firms: builders (SP, Nov. 4). It's amusing to see local builders tout themselves as charitable contributors to Saskatoon's social life and clamour over the Pleasant Hill affordable housing project.

They celebrate their own economic as opposed to ecological localism, and actually fail to connect the two. Left unsaid is that the builders have capitalized enormously on typically low-input/high-profit housing during the course of an inflated housing bubble now undergoing "market corrections."

Of course, this rarely is mentioned, given the tendency to naturalize the "healthy" business of home builders. Besides, in a precedent not confined to Saskatoon, benevolent displays of good corporate citizenship further the harvesting of future tenders and profit-making opportunities.

The builders predictably deride and derogate the proposal from Cenith, a company apparently committed to green building, energy efficiency and sustainable construction.

Keith Hanson's argument that green building technologies and green design don't stand up to scrutiny echoes the same rhetoric used by those who recently opposed LEED-based plans for the Station 20 West project and the River Landing proposal, claiming they are: unproven, unrealistic, too costly for public funds and not worth the risk.

The Cenith proposal may indeed have problems and stretch costs on the front end. Yet, I suspect these costs will pay for themselves over time. Notably, beyond the promise of local power generation and geothermal heating, Cenith's proposal actually offers 21 more units than the development foundation.

Yes, it would be wonderful to bring in Saskatoon-based, ecology-minded builders. If only there were any. Cenith is shrewdly positioning itself as the sustainable option.

Yet, the real risk is the current default setting: a tired approach to housing, affordable or otherwise, and the reliance on self-interested, for-profit builders to determine how communities ought to design and conceptualize the idea of house and home.

Neil Balan
Saskatoon

Source

[dsim249]

Gov't announces $100K in funding for whitewater park study

TheStarPhoenix.com

Thursday, November 13, 2008

An influx of $100,000 will aid in the study of a proposed whitewater park in Saskatoon.

The provincial government announced the funding Thursday. The City of Saskatoon and the Whitewater Park Proposal Committee have been jointly examining the potential of a hydro power facility and recreation facility in Saskatoon.

According to a government press release, a joint study will highlight community and environmental effects and provide details about cost and design considerations.

"We are extremely pleased with the provincial government's financial commitment to further study the potential of creating a whitewater park," Whitewater Park Committee chairperson Kent Gray said.

"Studies over the past year have concluded that it is possible to create an attraction that is one of its kind in the world. Development of a green recreational whitewater park is an exciting concept that our committee fully endorses and looks forward to pursuing."

The city's electrical utility, Saskatoon Light and Power, is prepared to commit $300,000 for the development of associated pre-feasibility and environmental baseline studies for a hydro power facility, the release says. This spending is dependent on the approval of council.

According to a document on the city's website that addresses frequently asked questions about the proposal, the whitewater park would cost $14.6 million, subject to a final design.

The hydro power facility is expected to have the potential capacity to supply in excess of four megawatts electricity - enough power to supply approximately 3,200 homes.

Development on the river requires approval from the city, Meewasin, Saskatchewan Watershed Authority and various provincial and federal departments.
© The StarPhoenix 2008

[Ruckus]

^ That's odd, I didn't see that in today's paper (I scan the headlines online)...thank you dsim249 for posting.

Interesting that Saskatoon Light and Power are willing to explore development of a small scale hydro project (I recall comments stating that the costs (ecological) didn't outweigh the benefits of generating power...or something along those lines).

I'm all for hydro power and a whitewater park, a unique combination that will generate a lot of outside interest.

Just imagine, a hydro/whitewater park and a wind turbine in Diefenbaker Park. Such interesting contexts for citizens to understand and appreciate where and how some of their power is generated.

Good on the province for their support

[Ruckus]

In regards to the hydro/whitewater park proposal, does anyone have an idea where the ideal location for a hydro facility is on the South Saskatchewan River? Assuming the hydro facility does not take away stream channels for fish, canoes, and kayaks, the locations appear to be quite limited.



Source - ToonTown White Water Club

[kgc087]

I wasn't to keen on the idea of developing a whitewater park along the river but it's really starting to grow on me and I think this would be an excellent opportunity to for Saskatoon economically as well as promotionally. The tourism created from this development would be quite large and promising for the city as well it would be a very unique downtown feature for the city. What is the timeline for this project?

[ninipanini]

Does anyone have any idea on how much electricity would be generated from this kind of project? How would it likely compare to the proposed wind turbine in Diefenbaker park which I'm assuming would be in the 1-1.5 megawatt range?

It's great to see some green initiatives, I'm so glad to see some progressive ideas coming out of our city council!