Regina’s executive committee is slated to consider a land acquisition framework related to the city’s Saskatchewan Drive Corridor Plan. The city is seeking to acquire 2704 Saskatchewan Drive, identifying it as necessary to “facilitate the expansion and widening of Saskatchewan Drive.” According to Wednesday’s meeting agenda, the City of Regina intends to use the land for the construction, expansion, improvement and maintenance of the roadways, sidewalks and utility infrastructure in line with the city’s vision. This includes compliance with Design Regina: The Official Community Plan Bylaw, the corridor plan, and the Transportation Master Plan. The city is currently negotiating with the landowners in order to acquire the land via a mutual agreement. Should negotiations fall through, the city has the ability to acquire the land for use as a public project under the Municipal Expropriation Act. Wednesday’s meeting serves to establish that the land is in fact required for a municipal purpose. “Despite ongoing efforts to reach agreement, negotiations have not resulted in an acquisition of the required lands,” the report read. “As a result, Administration is recommending that Council establish the municipal purpose for which the Land is required and preserve the City’s legal option to support delivery of an approved public infrastructure project.” The widening of Saskatchewan Drive was first approved by council in 2017 as part of the Transportation Master Plan. The project’s budget was approved in 2022, beginning negotiations with property owners. Additional budget was also approved in 2023. In 2024, the land in question was identified as being required for the project under the Saskatchewan Drive Corridor Plan approved by council. According to the city, the remaining land may be used as a buffer area of green space to support design elements for the corridor. Wednesday’s meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m.
