Saskatoon’s approved First Avenue bus plans may ‘negatively impact’ businesses, says advocates

Business leaders in Saskatoon have expressed concerns that the city council's recently approved First Avenue bus lane design may have a negative impact on local businesses. The council voted 7-4 in favor of the design, which includes eliminating 59 parking spots and placing bus stations in the middle of the street. The project also changes lane designations for some motorists along certain sections of the road.

City councillors deferred their final decision on the roadway's design five months ago to engage with businesses and accessibility advocates impacted by the suggested changes. While some praised the thorough consultation, others felt the council should have considered alternative designs that better protected parking and curb space in front of stores.

Shawna Nelson, executive director of Saskatoon's downtown business improvement district, called the final design "disappointing" as it did not explore other options beyond the one recommended to them. Jason Aebig, CEO of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, echoed these sentiments, stating that the decision dismisses the concerns of businesses that may struggle with the changes.