‘I’m really excited’: City previews the new look of College Drive, with dedicated bus lanes

WATCH: The City of Saskatoon has provided an updated look at its new bus rapid transit system. Stacey Hein reports.

College Drive may look a little different in a few years. The City of Saskatoon is planning to run a dedicated bus lane down the middle of the road to support its new rapid transit system.

During an open house at the University of Saskatchewan on Monday, the city gave a preview of how the heavily trafficked street is expected to look after the redesign.

“Bus rapid transit is just a method of using a bunch of different techniques or interventions to try and reach a service that’s like having a train system,” said Rob Dudiak, a special projects manager with the city.

First Avenue downtown is also expected to have a bus lane in the centre of the road.

While some people have voiced concern over it taking away from driving lanes, others have said it’s a welcome change.

“Having a dedicated lane… you can rely more on the bus to get you to school on time because it’s not affected by the car traffic,” said Shell Lemana, a student at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S).

“I’m really excited,” said Blake Kemmer, another student at the U of S.

“It sounds like the buses are going to be a lot more useful in the future.”

Safety has also been a concern brought up by residents, particularly in the wake of the death of Saskatoon teacher Natasha Fox. Fox was killed on her bicycle after being struck by a truck at the intersection of College Drive and Wiggins Avenue in May 2023.

The city said the new design will see changes to intersections along College Drive to make it safer for pedestrians. That includes implementing what it calls “smart turns” which makes it easier for drivers to see pedestrians.

Rob Dudiak said hosting an informational session has helped address questions and concerns.

“It’s always good to be able to have face to face discussions with people in the community about the work that we’ve been doing,” Dudiak said.

Construction on the new transit system — dubbed Link — began last fall, with eight station platforms built along Attridge Drive, 8th, 22nd, and 33rd street.

Construction is expected to pick up again this spring in some areas including Warman Road and Ontario Avenue. Link is expected to be operational by 2028.