Regina Revitalization Initiative
The City of Regina is leading the most extensive urban revitalization project in the City's history, a three-phased project called the Regina Revitalization Initiative (RRI). Phase two of the project is the Railyard Renewal Project involves the redevelopment of approximately 17.5 acres of vacant downtown land formerly used as a Canadian Pacific freight car marshaling yard. Work is underway to transform the former railyard into a mixed-use community with new offices, retail stores, and restaurants. A residential sector will provide various options for distinctive urban living with a pedestrian walkway connecting the district to Downtown, revitalizing Regina's nightlife, and providing access to the Warehouse District to the north. Dewdney Avenue is within proximity to the Warehouse District, and it gets considerable foot traffic. The walkway will provide easy access for pedestrians and cyclists and open up more business opportunities in the Warehouse District.
Consultants base-mapped the site, identifying urban design opportunities and challenges. These were assessed and then used to guide redevelopment plans. A risk assessment also considered the operation of CP Rail's adjacent interchange and facilities. The new pedestrian bridge's impact in terms of walkability and connectivity was also quantified, along with input from the community. All these factors helped in the preparation of the preferred redevelopment strategy and concept plan. Forty key stakeholders and over 500 residents shared their aspirations for the site.
The railyard transformation will include:
- Environmental clean-up of the site
- Installing new utility infrastructure
- Improvements to Dewdney Avenue
- Development of new public spaces
Phase Two will cost more than $500 million with the majority of funding from private sources. The Government of Canada, the Province of Saskatchewan, and the City of Regina have jointly committed $33.6 million towards the project.
Plans are underway to make this a net-zero community achievable with a sustainability model, including green roofs, renewable energy, and electric vehicles in line with Regina's 100% renewable energy target for 2050.
About Phase One: Construction and Opening of Mosaic Stadium
In 2014, Mosaic Stadium's construction began and opened to the public in the summer of 2017. The stadium is the largest interconnected event complex in Canada, with 33,000 seats. The stadium hosts numerous sports organizations and is the home of the Canadian Football League's Saskatchewan Roughriders.
Future Plans for Phase Three: Long-term Redevelopment of Taylor Field Neighbourhood
The third phase is the long-term redevelopment of the Taylor Field site. Demolition of the former Roughriders stadium made room for Mosaic Stadium, producing approximately 20 acres for development. The City has an exciting opportunity to rejuvenate one of Regina's historic neighborhoods, with around 20 acres available for future growth.
Looking forward, the City of Regina has identified critical opportunities for economic growth over the next ten years. The goal is to make Regina a leading destination for tourism, the arts, businesses and to bolster population growth. Projects like the Railyard Renewal Project include the need for Canadian-made access doors. Access Doors Canada is the country's leading supplier of access doors, roof hatches, floor panels, and products that contribute towards achieving LEED certification. Get in touch to find out more by calling 1-800-679-3405 or visit us online at www.accessdoorscanada.ca
