Broadway businesses looking to embrace change to cope with construction projects

Businesses along Broadway Avenue in Saskatoon could be in store for six months of uncertainty as the City of Saskatoon begins construction projects in the area.

City of Saskatoon plans to close Broadway Bridge to traffic until October for upgrades that will include replacing asphalt, fixing joints, traffic barriers and major arches, and replacing the sidewalks.

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The $13.1 million project is slated to begin the first half of May.

As well, construction of the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (Link) platforms will also be started in first half of May, taking around four weeks to complete.

No start date for either project has been finalized.

During construction, the 93-year-old bridge and multi-use pathways on both sides will be closed. As well, Broadway Avenue from Saskatchewan Crescent East to 20th Street East, 19th Street East from 3rd Avenue South to Broadway Avenue and 4th Avenue South from 19th Street East to 20th Street East will be closed.

Businesses in the area are worried about the impact of construction but are looking at ways to adapt.

“I would be lying if I didn’t say I wasn’t a little concerned,” said Peter Garden, owner of Turning the Tide bookstore on Main Street just off Broadway.

“Any time there’s change people need to adjust to that change. Having said that there are other ways to get to Broadway from the west side of the river,” he said.

“I’ve heard some people saying ‘how can we embrace this?’ We’re talking about reducing some traffic in one direction so maybe we can … have a more walkable Broadway this summer.”

Garden said he has already begun preparing to try and attract more foot traffic.

“We’re thinking about doing things like having outdoor book readings. I think it’s going to be a chance to try some new things out.

“I’m hoping some other merchants will be doing more outdoor sales and creating a bit of a sidewalk sale environment,” Garden said.

The Saskatchewan Craft Council situated on Broadway is on board.

“We’re trying to participate in all the programs that the BID (Business Improvement District) is putting on,” said Carmen Milenkovic, the council’s executive director. “I think they’re doing some Thursday night shopping and special events.”

Milenkovic said the council has its own special events planned.

“A few years ago we had the whole street torn up for piping,” she said. “I think what’s different this time is that it’s a complete closure.”

Milenkovic said normally when major road work is happening at least one lane of traffic is kept open.

“Last year when they were doing College Drive you could still drive on (it),” she said. “So I’m not sure why they went with that strategy (complete closure). In my mind, that’s a lot to ask of the businesses here.”

Milenkovic said the road closure is an inconvenience for both business owners and consumers.

— with files by Will Mandzuk and Shane Clausing

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