Saskatoon region population could near half a million in 20 years

Saskatoon Fire and Protective Services are urging people to stay away from the river bank because of faster than normal water.

Saskatoon is growing, and according to the latest data the census metropolitan area surrounding the city could reach a population of near half a million in 20 years.

The city’s planning and development branch released a report Wednesday that estimated the city itself could see a population of 387,742 by 2032. The estimated growth rate was 2.5 per cent annually, and if that keeps up, by 2017 the city could already see an extra 35,000 people.

On average, a Saskatoon household has 2.5 people, meaning the city will need 15,000 new homes ever five years, and 60,000 units by 2032.

“Regional population growth is both an opportunity and a challenge,” a release by the city said.

According the release, municipalities in the Saskatoon area are working in tandem with the province to ensure the region has the framework in place to facilitate a growing population.