Released on November 23, 2018
The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and the City of Regina recognize that rehabilitating existing infrastructure is a smart, sustainable way to enhance our communities, and promote economic growth.
Today, Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, on behalf of François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, Government Relations Minister Warren Kaeding, and City of Regina Mayor Michael Fougere, announced more than $33.6 million in joint funding for Regina’s Railyard Renewal Project.The Regina Revitalization Initiative (RRI) Railyard Renewal Project involves transforming the 17.5-acre former railyard on Dewdney Avenue into a vibrant new neighbourhood that will transform Regina’s city centre into a dynamic, connected community.
The funding announced today will go toward numerous improvements on Dewdney Avenue. Ultimately Dewdney Avenue will be renewed to become a complete street that prioritizes pedestrian safety and comfort while supporting new economic activity. This investment will support site improvements including cleaning up the site, installing utility infrastructure and developing vibrant public spaces, including a park. Future work will include a new pedestrian bridge that links the Warehouse District to downtown.
Among the many benefits this project will bring the people of Regina are more diverse housing options, additional urban green space and new commercial opportunities.
“The Railyard Renewal Project is a great example of how communities can leverage their existing infrastructure to create new spaces that meet people’s changing needs,” said Goodale. “The Government of Canada is proud to be investing in this transformative urban renewal project that will breathe new life into Regina’s city centre, promote green development and living, and create new opportunities for local businesses.”
“The Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to be investing $11.2 million toward this important City of Regina project,” Kaeding said. “It will help strengthen the heart of the Queen City by contributing to the redevelopment of a central urban area into an even better place to live, work, play and do business.”
“I know this first phase of work on the Railyard Renewal Project has been greatly anticipated in the community,” Fourgere said. “There has been a lot of work done behind the scenes and everyone is excited to see that it is now becoming real and tangible with this announcement. These early works will provide significant benefits for existing businesses and residents while laying the foundation for a dynamic and innovative renovation of an important central asset that will play a central role in the future of our city.”
Quick facts:
- Through the Investing in Canada infrastructure plan, the Government of Canada will invest more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.
- The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and the City of Regina are each contributing up to $11,222,507 to this project through the New Building Canada Fund–Provincial-Territorial Infrastructure Component–National and Regional Projects. The City of Regina will be responsible for any remaining costs.
- The Federation of Canadian Municipalities provided an additional $175,000 in federal funding for this project through the Green Municipal Fund.
- Investing in Canada: Canada’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/plan/icp-publication-pic-eng.html
- Investing in Canada Plan Project Map: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map
- Federal infrastructure investments in Saskatchewan: http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/map-carte/sk-eng.html
- Regina Revitalization Initiative: http://www.regina.ca/rri
For more information, contact:
Ann-Clara Vaillancourt
Office of the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities
Ottawa
Phone: 613-697-3778
Email: ann-clara.vaillancourt@canada.ca
Dan Palmer
Saskatchewan Ministry of Government Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7151
Email: dan.palmer@gov.sk.ca
Desirae Bernreuther
City of Regina
Regina
Phone: 306-777-7486
Email: dbernreu@regina.ca
Infrastructure Canada
Media Relations
Ottawa
Phone: 613-960-9251
Email: infc.media.infc@canada.ca