A proposed rapid transit system along 1st Avenue in Saskatoon is generating significant unease among local businesses. The plan includes the removal of 61 parking spaces and the introduction of dedicated bus lanes, prompting fears about accessibility and customer footfall. Stakeholders argue these changes could adversely affect the economic viability of the area.
Local Businesses React
Keith Moen, executive director of the North Saskatoon Business Association, expressed his worries about the impact of the new design, which would reduce through traffic to a single lane for vehicles while establishing two bus lanes in each direction. “We’re curious as to how snow removal is going to work with this one lane,” he commented, highlighting logistical challenges. Moen’s concerns echo those of many in the local business community, who feel that the city has not adequately accounted for their needs.
Shawna Nelson, executive director of the Downtown Saskatoon Business Improvement District, reiterated the importance of parking in the downtown area. “Everyone knows how much of a sore spot that is when it comes to parking downtown,” she remarked, underscoring the potential negative consequences for foot traffic and customer access.
A Collective Voice
The NSBA and Downtown Saskatoon BID represent approximately 1,700 businesses, and they are uniting to present their concerns to the city. Moen emphasised the critical role 1st Avenue plays in connecting various businesses, offices, and services to customers and employees daily. “Changes to the traffic flow have real economic impact on businesses operating in this area,” he added, urging city planners to reconsider the implications of their proposals.
Business owners on 1st Avenue are particularly apprehensive about the loss of parking. Miguel Robles, director of Robles Goldsmith & Jewellery, noted the importance of visible storefronts for attracting foot traffic. “We’ve gotten a lot of business through foot traffic, through people parking in front of our storefront and seeing our sign outside,” he explained. He further highlighted that the proposed changes would complicate delivery logistics, as there is no rear access for couriers along that stretch.
City Response
In response to the growing concerns, the city has announced that a design report is in development, set to be presented at April’s transportation committee meeting. Officials have committed to ongoing collaboration with both the NSBA and Downtown Saskatoon BID as they refine their plans. However, the timeline for implementing any changes remains unclear, leaving businesses in a state of uncertainty.
Why it Matters
The outcome of this transit proposal could significantly shape the landscape of downtown Saskatoon. As businesses grapple with the potential fallout from reduced parking and altered traffic patterns, the economic repercussions could be far-reaching. Ensuring that local voices are heard in the planning process is vital, as it will determine not only the future of 1st Avenue but also the livelihood of many establishments that depend on accessible customer engagement.
