Saskatoon Construction

[Hawker]

At the airport:

Newly added routes and a strong winter "sun charter" season are major contributors to the higher passenger volumes. Restall predicted the number of people to fly through the Saskatoon airport in 2008 will hit 1.15 million by Dec. 31. In the month of October alone, more than 100,000 passengers were processed.

"We've been growing the last three or four years, so it's been a normal growth. The airlines have given us additional seats and we've been selling the tickets and people have been flying -- so as long as the airlines give you more seats and you're able to sell the tickets, you do quite well."

The airport authority is in the planning stages of a future terminal expansion.

"We thought we would be doing terminal expansion in 2014-15," Restall said.

"We're doing the planning now with looking at bringing some expanded services on line in 2011-12. You have to find the right balance -- as growth comes along you have to build the facility in anticipation of it, but you can't overbuild it at the front end, either."

http://www.thestarphoenix.com/news/todays-paper/Airport+warns+lineups/1111615/story.html

[ninipanini]

I was walking down Broadway and thought I'd snap a few quick pics of the Luxe. It looks like they are making good headway on the 2nd floor despite the cold... brrrr.

[circle33]

Originally Posted by ninipanini

It looks like they are making good headway on the 2nd floor despite the cold... brrrr.

I believe the project has been suspended since the accident (which happened before this cold snap settled upon us).

[nook]

A few quick questions:

There`s a empty parcel of land at the 8th and Louise intersection.. the one across Louise from McDonalds... What used to be there? It's been empty for as long as I can remember. Is there any logical reason why nothing has never been built there? It's a prime location on 8th street...

Also, I love Harvey's. We don't have a Harvey's. Will we ever get another Harvey's? I don't understand how that company thought a restaurant in the Home Depot would be profitable. Especially on Circle Drive, as very few restaurants actually survive on Circle.

If I had money, I'd buy a Harvey's franchise, and put it on that location on 8th street...

[circle33]

From what I've heard (and cannot verify), the fellow who owns the abutting Dairy Queen owns the parcel at 8th and Louise and is somewhat stubborn/cantankerous/eccentric and has no interest in developing the land.

[kgc087]

If I remember correctly, an old friend of mine, her aunty owns the DQ and the land beside it. She has no interest in selling it b/c it is very profitable for her. Shes quite old and I'm sure within the next 10 years we can expect it to be sold. I'm sorry nook and for all you other fast food supporters its easy but its disgusting to eat and it's even more disgusting to be driving down the road and see a line up of fast food resteraunts on one of Saskatoon's main shopping roads. That spot would be prime for a nice resteraunt and maybe some shopping, perhaps some green space and even condos towards the back end of the lot.

[Greco Roman]

Originally Posted by nook

A few quick questions:
Also, I love Harvey's. We don't have a Harvey's. Will we ever get another Harvey's? I don't understand how that company thought a restaurant in the Home Depot would be profitable. Especially on Circle Drive, as very few restaurants actually survive on Circle.

If I had money, I'd buy a Harvey's franchise, and put it on that location on 8th street...

Harvey's is disgusting; I'd say it's along the lines of Burger King, greasy and gross. The grease that I have seen and tasted pouring out of their food is enough to give you a heart attack on the spot

People should be thankful that yet another fat food establishment hasn't polluted your fair city!

[ninipanini]

Originally Posted by Greco Roman

Harvey's is disgusting; I'd say it's along the lines of Burger King, greasy and gross...

I completely agree, if there's anything we don't need it's more second rate "restaurants".

[newflyer]

Originally Posted by ninipanini

I completely agree, if there's anything we don't need it's more second rate "restaurants".

Calling those types of restaurants second rate is being very kind.

[Sask]

Originally Posted by newflyer

Calling those types of restaurants second rate is being very kind.

I'm not a huge fan of fastfood restaurants, but Harveys I don't mind. I like the pickles.

On another note, I was stopped at a red light this afternoon on the corner of Preston and College. I looked towards the downtown and realized that if the Lighthouse ever does get built, you will be able to see it from there. You can see the Saskatoon Tower from there and the Lighthouse will be taller.

[Greco Roman]

Originally Posted by Sask

I'm not a huge fan of fastfood restaurants, but Harveys I don't mind. I like the pickles.

On another note, I was stopped at a red light this afternoon on the corner of Preston and College. I looked towards the downtown and realized that if the Lighthouse ever does get built, you will be able to see it from there. You can see the Saskatoon Tower from there (http://www.saskatoontower.com/), and the Lighthouse will be taller.

Your link doesn't work.

And btw, what is Saskatoon Tower? One of the skyscrapers?

[Sask]

Originally Posted by Greco Roman

Your link doesn't work.

And btw, what is Saskatoon Tower? One of the skyscrapers?

Sorry about that. This link should work http://www.emporis.com/en/il/im/?id=308994
I would post a picture, but don't know how.

[midnightrambler]

Originally Posted by Hawker

At the airport:

Newly added routes and a strong winter "sun charter" season are major contributors to the higher passenger volumes. Restall predicted the number of people to fly through the Saskatoon airport in 2008 will hit 1.15 million by Dec. 31. In the month of October alone, more than 100,000 passengers were processed.

"We've been growing the last three or four years, so it's been a normal growth. The airlines have given us additional seats and we've been selling the tickets and people have been flying -- so as long as the airlines give you more seats and you're able to sell the tickets, you do quite well."

The airport authority is in the planning stages of a future terminal expansion.

"We thought we would be doing terminal expansion in 2014-15," Restall said.

"We're doing the planning now with looking at bringing some expanded services on line in 2011-12. You have to find the right balance -- as growth comes along you have to build the facility in anticipation of it, but you can't overbuild it at the front end, either."

http://www.thestarphoenix.com/news/todays-paper/Airport+warns+lineups/1111615/story.html

I love hearing that flight travel is on the increase in the city. I also like how major airlines have turned their attention to Saskatoon as a place for direct flights. I imagine a direct flight to Chicago isn't too far into the future if the passenger levels remain high.

I think the levels represent about a 10% increase. This could be representative of both a growing population and decreased cost in airline tickets and also combine that with a growing economy and you have people taking plenty of trips.

Things I'd like to see in an airport expansion:

1) Another Baggage Carosel - I think there is two right now, and the area that is used for it was designed rather poorly for higher traffic, which we are currently experiencing. Compared to other airports ours seems to be a pain in the arse to get to and get out of.
2) A larger food court - by adding a couple of quick snack shops would reduce the 10 deep douple lines at Tim Horton's (the only option at 6 AM) substantially. Maybe another burger joint or something, who knows.

[ninipanini]

Originally Posted by midnightrambler

I imagine a direct flight to Chicago isn't too far into the future if the passenger levels remain high...

That would be really fantastic! I think Winnipeg and Calgary already have direct flights to Chicago. I would love to see that, but it would also be nice if Saskatoon got access to US cities outside the midwest.

I don't know if anyone out there has seen the airport 2005-09 business plan (http://www.yxe.ca/about/plans.php), but it has some really interesting information. There are some renderings of the terminal building with a few extra gates and some other expansions that may be possible. The plan also lists the top 10 destinations for passengers traveling from Saskatoon which includes L.A. in 9th spot and Victoria in 10th spot, each making up less than 3% of total passengers (maybe those are candidates for WestJet routes since they already service both of those destinations?!?!). I would imagine that flights to those destinations would be a welcome addition.

Does anyone else have any thoughts on other routes which might be viable?

[newflyer]

Originally Posted by ninipanini

That would be really fantastic! I think Winnipeg and Calgary already have direct flights to Chicago. I would love to see that, but it would also be nice if Saskatoon got access to US cities outside the midwest.

Does anyone else have any thoughts on other routes which might be viable?

I think Saskatoon should focus on the major western US air hubs .. like Dever, Salt Lake City, Minneapolis and Chicago. Of course the demand for such flights needs to exist.

[prairieguy]

As for airport expansion, I was just recently in the Kelowna airport (a very nice facility that services similar numbers - 1.4 million??), and it gave me a few ideas.

They have an excellent and large licensed lounge in the main area of the terminal with 2 story windows providing excellent natural light and views. I would actually make a special trip to this lounge if I lived in Kelowna. Once thru to departures there is a full service restaraunt (I think a White Spot or Montanas). I think we need a full service place to eat, versus counter service.

There is also a large glass sculpture area as you move from check-in area to security. It really enhances the airport.

I think our initial airport redesign and expansion was quite good, but certainly more can be done and should be done in anticipation of increased passenger loads and traffic. Would be nice to see our airport doing some of the things Kelowna is doing (which by the way has a $35 million expansion starting already!)

So:
- agree with improved luggage/baggage pick up area
- improved food service area
- add an expanded or improved licensed lounge
- more retail/shopping options
- add more interest to design and decor with some large pieces of local sculpture or art
- perhaps a second level observation area for the lounge/restaurant??

As for new routes, I agree with access to major US hubs like Chicago, Denver, Salt Lake, etc. This will then provide us with enough connections to improve service in and out of Saskatoon.

Happy New Year.
PG

[craneSpotter]

Originally Posted by prairieguy

As for airport expansion, I was just recently in the Kelowna airport (a very nice facility that services similar numbers - 1.4 million??), and it gave me a few ideas.


As for new routes, I agree with access to major US hubs like Chicago, Denver, Salt Lake, etc. This will then provide us with enough connections to improve service in and out of Saskatoon.

Happy New Year.
PG

Yup, YLW was 1.36 million passengers in 2007. I think Kelowna will hit 1.4+ million this year. YLW is also looking to get direct charter service from Europe with its newly lengthened runway by 2010. So, a bit busier than Saskatoon.

Having just been to YXE recently for the first time in 8 years, we were pleasantly surprised. We were able to fly AC direct from YVR on an E90! A very comfy/roomy aircraft with seatback entertainment, we expected older livery not flying a mainline, but a Jazz route. It was nice to see service levels to YXE have improved and we did not to have to connect in Alberta . I also have to say we were impressed with the airport - it`s a fairly nice airport for a city of Saskatoon`s size. Reminded me of Regina`s airport with a Tim Horton`s actually - similar size and services.

I think SFO would be next for YXE, and that would take years to justify, maybe when you guys are at 3 million passengers. Linking to DEN is a major step, as it is one of the 10 busiest airports in the world. United/Air Canada will connect you to the other major airports in the US via Denver and Northwest will use MSP. These two will serve your transborder passenegers for a while...but you never know I guess.

[shmakim]

Edit: I get a little giddy with the bolding when I read articles like this...


Big building year ahead


Numerous capital projects on tap for Saskatoon in 2009

By Rod NickelDecember 31, 2008 9:02 AM


When the federal government announces an economic stimulus package Jan. 27, Atchison is hoping it's enough to accelerate Saskatoon's backlog of road, water and sewer infrastructure.

The city would welcome federal money for its flood protection plan, sound walls along Circle Drive, the expansion of 25th Street and the twinning of Wanuskewin Road.

"Those are all projects that, if we got word from the federal government, we could get those underway this coming year. We'd be in high gear, ready to roll."

Since the point of the stimulus is to get money and jobs into the economy quickly, Atchison hopes Ottawa would get funds to municipalities almost immediately and audit them later.

Even without the federal top-up, Saskatoon is moving into a year of major development. More than $100 million is budgeted for land development of new neighbourhoods, which the city says will ensure there are lots available when better economic times return.

Almost a century since a plan for a completed Circle Drive was drawn up, work begins on a new south bridge and roadways connecting it with Circle. The city has budgeted a fraction of the $299-million estimated cost, or $10.14 million, that will be spent on demolishing buildings, realigning intersections, geotechnical work and hiring a consultant.

Here's what else Atchison sees ahead in 2009:

- River Landing: By this time next year, construction should be well underway on the Lake Placid hotel-residential-office-retail project. On the Riversdale side of River Landing, the riverfront shoreline will be open next year, including a small pedestrian bridge. The city has budgeted $2.4 million to design the destination centre in 2009 that will attach to Persephone Theatre, after council and the public has their say on its composition. Proposals are in for a 45-storey, year-round Sky Tower with a spinning gondola taking riders to the top; a children's museum; a keeping house of aboriginal art and artifacts; a creativity centre; and University of Saskatchewan innovation showcase.

A committee is expected to make recommendations early in the new year.

- Denser city plan: Long-range planning needs to increase density, according to the mayor. The biggest project along those lines is a plan to move the bus barns out of Caswell Hill and the city yards out of north downtown, to be replaced by residential and other development. The city takes a step toward that goal in 2009 by starting work on extending 25th Street to Idylwyld Drive and designing a new police station for the site.

- The Lighthouse project: A final development agreement hasn't yet been announced, but Stoneset Equities of Calgary is expected to proceed with construction of Saskatchewan's tallest building next year. The tower will combine market-driven housing with shelter and assisted living units.

- Mendel Art Gallery expansion: Work on the long-delayed project can start if the feds get on board, Atchison said.

"It's difficult for (the Mendel) to raise funds right now because people ask, are all levels of government on board? And the answer's no. Tell us if it's going to happen, great. If it's not, we need to know that also."

The gallery is among several projects on the city's application for funding from the Canada Builds program.

- Tax increase: "The goal the past few years has been to be under an inflationary rate," Atchison said. "If you talk to councillors, I don't see anybody talking about anything higher than that."

Atchison is quick to point out that municipal property taxes are low relative to other cities, but the school board portion of the tax bill is not.

The coming year is a reassessment year, meaning that properties that have shot up in value beyond the average increase in their class will see an additional hit to taxes. "Reassessment should happen on a more regular basis, because then there isn't that large a shift."

Reassessment is revenue-neutral to the city, meaning that even though some property owners will pay more as a result, others pay less, adding up to no more revenue to the city overall.

- New man at the top: Murray Totland begins his job as city manager Jan. 1: "(He's) someone that's already very familiar with the organization and has run many of the departments," Atchison said. "Council has made one very sound decision already."

[kgc087]

Originally Posted by shmakim

Edit: I get a little giddy with the bolding when I read articles like this...


Big building year ahead


Numerous capital projects on tap for Saskatoon in 2009

By Rod NickelDecember 31, 2008 9:02 AM


When the federal government announces an economic stimulus package Jan. 27, Atchison is hoping it's enough to accelerate Saskatoon's backlog of road, water and sewer infrastructure.

The city would welcome federal money for its flood protection plan, sound walls along Circle Drive, the expansion of 25th Street and the twinning of Wanuskewin Road.

"Those are all projects that, if we got word from the federal government, we could get those underway this coming year. We'd be in high gear, ready to roll."

Since the point of the stimulus is to get money and jobs into the economy quickly, Atchison hopes Ottawa would get funds to municipalities almost immediately and audit them later.

Even without the federal top-up, Saskatoon is moving into a year of major development. More than $100 million is budgeted for land development of new neighbourhoods, which the city says will ensure there are lots available when better economic times return.

Almost a century since a plan for a completed Circle Drive was drawn up, work begins on a new south bridge and roadways connecting it with Circle. The city has budgeted a fraction of the $299-million estimated cost, or $10.14 million, that will be spent on demolishing buildings, realigning intersections, geotechnical work and hiring a consultant.

Here's what else Atchison sees ahead in 2009:

- River Landing: By this time next year, construction should be well underway on the Lake Placid hotel-residential-office-retail project. On the Riversdale side of River Landing, the riverfront shoreline will be open next year, including a small pedestrian bridge. The city has budgeted $2.4 million to design the destination centre in 2009 that will attach to Persephone Theatre, after council and the public has their say on its composition. Proposals are in for a 45-storey, year-round Sky Tower with a spinning gondola taking riders to the top; a children's museum; a keeping house of aboriginal art and artifacts; a creativity centre; and University of Saskatchewan innovation showcase.

A committee is expected to make recommendations early in the new year.

- Denser city plan: Long-range planning needs to increase density, according to the mayor. The biggest project along those lines is a plan to move the bus barns out of Caswell Hill and the city yards out of north downtown, to be replaced by residential and other development. The city takes a step toward that goal in 2009 by starting work on extending 25th Street to Idylwyld Drive and designing a new police station for the site.

- The Lighthouse project: A final development agreement hasn't yet been announced, but Stoneset Equities of Calgary is expected to proceed with construction of Saskatchewan's tallest building next year. The tower will combine market-driven housing with shelter and assisted living units.

- Mendel Art Gallery expansion: Work on the long-delayed project can start if the feds get on board, Atchison said.

"It's difficult for (the Mendel) to raise funds right now because people ask, are all levels of government on board? And the answer's no. Tell us if it's going to happen, great. If it's not, we need to know that also."

The gallery is among several projects on the city's application for funding from the Canada Builds program.

- Tax increase: "The goal the past few years has been to be under an inflationary rate," Atchison said. "If you talk to councillors, I don't see anybody talking about anything higher than that."

Atchison is quick to point out that municipal property taxes are low relative to other cities, but the school board portion of the tax bill is not.

The coming year is a reassessment year, meaning that properties that have shot up in value beyond the average increase in their class will see an additional hit to taxes. "Reassessment should happen on a more regular basis, because then there isn't that large a shift."

Reassessment is revenue-neutral to the city, meaning that even though some property owners will pay more as a result, others pay less, adding up to no more revenue to the city overall.

- New man at the top: Murray Totland begins his job as city manager Jan. 1: "(He's) someone that's already very familiar with the organization and has run many of the departments," Atchison said. "Council has made one very sound decision already."

It's fantastic to see so many large scale projects moving along and that Saskatoon is seeming to skim past the recession. I'm somewhat disappointed to see 100 million going towards future lot development. I feel the city should switch the money for the south bridge and the land development. This would certainly force an increase in density. I was browsing through some old photos posted in the spring and I was reminded that there were a supposed two office towers going to be proposed by the end of the year or the start of this year. Do think it was the Riverlanding and the one on 3rd Ave. or that they have not been proposed yet. Perhaps one is going to be that lot I mentioned earlier across from the midtown. It's nice to see the Mendal will most likely get its reno's done with the "building Canada" money. As well I hope the city makes the right choice with the destination comples at the riverlanding. I feel like skytower would be very well matched with the childrens museum which could also lend itself to the innovation centre. I know we poked fun at the skytower but I feel a bold combination like this would help secure the south development.

[Ruckus]

Naked skating in Central Park...comments...criticisms? Where else in Saskatoon could you have a similar experience?.......The nakedness would come later ...To be perfectly honest, I don't think this would last more than a week, at most. We don't have that urban vibe just yet, soon though.

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