Engagement Update: Public Feedback

Thank you to everyone who responded to the online survey. Given the curiosity around this project, the City received a few similar questions about this project. Below you'll find those questions and answers.

To reiterate, this is a functional study. No decision has been made as the City and its consultant continue to work on the functional study and have conversations with interested and impacted parties.

If you have any questions, please send them to WascanaParkway@regina.ca.

Questions & Answers

What is a functional study and why is it being done?

The scope of this study is to evaluate a proposed route, identify heritage, environmental, noise and other potential impacts, gather input from interested and impacted parties, examine issues in constructing a potential road and provide a preliminary cost estimate.

The study aims to:

  • Identify the best route for a potential roadway extension

  • Examine issues that impact the potential for construction of a roadway and identify possible mitigation needed

  • Develop a functional design, including a cost estimate and staging plan

Why is this project being considered now?

  • This study is a follow-up to the 2022 Arcola Avenue Corridor Study, which recommended this project take place in advance of any significant Arcola Avenue upgrade.

  • This study is happening now to look at feasibility based on current conditions and respond to growing population and traffic volume in east Regina.

  • The proposed extension is just one component of a bigger, integrated approach to addressing transportation challenges in east Regina and is meant to work alongside other possible solutions.

What does the study include?

  • Environmental surveys and assessments

  • Heritage reviews

  • Indigenous input on history and use of the area

  • Noise assessment for traffic

  • Road cross-section needs for accommodating all modes of travel (e.g., walking, cycling, transit and personal vehicles)

  • Considerations for creek crossings and floodway areas

  • Input from landowners and interested and impacted parties, along with a public survey

How long will the study take?

Completion is expected by December 2026, with updates provided at key milestones.

When will construction take place?

There is no timeline for construction at this stage, as no decisions have been made. There is also no established timeline for Administration to bring a decision to Council on the potential next steps for this project.

Are other options, such as routing traffic to the bypass, being considered part of this study?

No, the study is focused on evaluating this specific route option because of recommendations in earlier studies and as identified in the City’s long term Transportation Master Plan. However, alternative ideas, including suggestions from residents, are being collected throughout the process and will be included in the final report.

Will environmental impacts be assessed?

Environmental considerations are a key part of the study. This includes wildlife and rare plant surveys and collaboration with environmental organizations and regulators.

Why not just widen existing roads like Arcola Avenue?

Widening existing roads is part of the long-term transportation strategy. However, it would cause significant disruption with construction over multiple years that would mean lane reductions and traffic detours. To add a third lane on Arcola Avenue, a wider bridge would also be needed to cross Ring Road.

This study represents a first step in a broader, long-term plan to address transportation challenges in east Regina. This explores an alternative approach that could be implemented more quickly, while the more complex and costly projects (like widening Arcola Avenue) are planned and carried out.

Does the proposed route affect or cross the McKell Wascana Conservation Park?

No, the proposed route will not be located within designated conservation land. The roadway right-of-way is west of the McKell conservation area. Route options are being developed to avoid conservation areas and minimize impacts wherever possible. This proposed route is consistent with the City’s historical plans and dates to the 1970s. Discussions with landowners and organizations, like Ducks Unlimited, are ongoing.

Any potential planned roadway will ensure the McKell conservation easement is maintained and existing surrounding habitats will be supported.

Will the study consider how this new roadway will impact schools, safety and/or local traffic?

Yes, the project will also identify ways to minimize disruptions and maintain safety around nearby schools and neighbourhoods. The functional study will also include recommendations for safety enhancements, like signalized pedestrian crossings and traffic calming measures, particularly in areas with higher pedestrian activity.

This route was previously explored as part of the Arcola Corridor Study, where early traffic volume forecasts showed traffic volumes on Assiniboine Avenue and Philip Road next to W.S Hawrylak School would decrease if this were to proceed.

Will active transportation (e.g., walking, cycling) be included?

Yes, active transportation will be incorporated into the planning and design.

How are noise and community impacts being addressed?

Noise levels are being studied to check if mitigation measures will be needed based on the City’s noise attenuation policy.

How is community input being gathered?

Feedback is being collected through the City’s Be Heard digital engagement platform using both a survey and a Q&A opportunity. There is also direct engagement with landowners and other interested and impacted parties.

Will there be more opportunities for public participation as (or if) this project progresses?

Yes. The intention is for the City to continue engagement with landowners and interested and impacted parties during the remaining part of the functional study. If the project is found to be feasible, engagement with the public may occur in other design phases of the project.