CROWN LAND TRANSFERRED FOR SASKATOON DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT

The Saskatoon south downtown redevelopment project received a key parcel of land from the Province today through the transfer of 1.5 acres of riverfront Crown land. The announcement was made at a ceremony attended by Premier Lorne Calvert, Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchison, and Meewasin Valley Authority Chair Dennis Johnson.

"Our government is dedicated to supporting initiatives and activities that enrich communities throughout Saskatchewan," Calvert said. "Today's announcement of the transfer of this key piece of Crown land is another step forward in the realization of the larger initiative to revitalize the south downtown of Saskatoon."

The 1.5 acres is Crown land that originated from land fill along the river's edge. All land that forms the bed of a surveyed waterbody in Saskatchewan belongs to the Crown.

"We support the efforts of the City of Saskatoon and the Meewasin Valley Authority to enhance the riverfront area to allow more public access, to connect neighbourhoods and the downtown, and to create a friendly meeting place that will become a major new destination for residents and tourists," Calvert said.

Late last year, the Province announced a contribution of $4 million to the project. A proposal by Crosby Hanna & Associates has been accepted by the City and endorsed by the Meewasin Valley Authority. The proposal, which includes both general recreation and commercial usage and the physical alterations of the land, has been reviewed by Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization, Saskatchewan Environment and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

The long term plan for the south downtown riverfront area includes parks, boardwalks, performing arts spaces, a hotel, restaurants and housing.

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For More Information, Contact:

Trish Alcorn Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-5389

Susan Lamb Meewasin Valley Authority Saskatoon Phone: (306)665-6887