The Southwest Sewer System Upgrade is a multi-year construction project starting in June 2024 which will expand the City’s sewer network.
It includes constructing a 4.5 km long large-diameter sewer line. This project supports community vibrancy by mitigating our risk for bypass events during heavy rainfall, reducing basement flooding and accommodating future growth.
The Southwest Sewer Upgrade Project has been divided into five (5) construction contracts. Contract 1 construction started in 2024 and primarily took place in A.E. Wilson Park from McCarthy Boulevard Pumping Station (MBPS) to Wascana Creek. Contract 1 construction is expected to be completed by spring 2025 with landscaping work continuing into the summer.
Project Outcomes
The Southwest Sewer Upgrade Project (Contract 1 to Contract 5) involves the construction of approximately 4.5 km of large-diameter sewer pipeline. The benefits of this project include:
- Preparing for growth to welcome new residents and opportunities.
- Reducing raw sewage bypasses to the environment.
- Reducing basement flooding incidents.
- Accommodating future population growth.
Contract 1
Contract 1 involves the construction of approximately 650 m of large-diameter sewer pipeline and several concrete chambers. The benefits of Contract 1 include:
- Providing additional storage in the City’s wastewater collection system.
- Providing wastewater collection system overflow capacity.
- Setting the pace and establishing a solid foundation for subsequent contracts.
Temporary Restrictions
- Construction on the large concrete chamber at the McCarthy Boulevard Pumping Station is anticipated to be completed in May 2025. Nearby residents may notice some vibrations starting April 29 due to the removal of sheet piles—a process that is expected to last only a few days.
- The Rick Hansen Optimist Playground washrooms are expected to reopen in mid-May 2025.
- Starting May 5, the Rick Hansen Optimist Playground parking lot/access road off McCarthy Boulevard and Brunkskill Place will be temporarily closed to allow the contractor to complete pavement restoration work, as shown on the map below. The area is expected to reopen to the public on Tuesday, May 13.
Contract 2
Construction for Contract 2 is expected to begin in 2025 and will take place in AE Wilson Park, starting near Wascana Creek and continuing south through Kent Street, crossing Dewdney Avenue.
Work Under Wascana Creek
The new sewer pipes beneath Wascana Creek will be installed using the traditional open-trench method.
Kent Street Construction & Traffic Impacts
Construction on Kent Street will also follow the open-trench method. A temporary road closure may be required to complete this work. The City is committed to minimizing disruptions for residents and will provide updates on traffic detours and access arrangements as soon as they are available.
Some trees along and close to Kent Street will be cut/relocated in May to accommodate the sewer trunk construction.
Construction Location and Timeline
2024-2025 (Contract 1): McCarthy Boulevard Pumping Station, A.E. Wilson Park, Rick Hansen playground parking lot, and McCarthy Boulevard
2025-2026 (Contract 2): Wascana Creek, Kent Street, Dewdney Avenue and Government of Canada Land
2026-2027 (Contract 3): Government of Canada Land, Royal Regina Golf Club, Canadian Pacific (CP) Railway and 13th Avenue (using trenchless technology)
2027-2028 (Contract 4): Rambler Park
2028-2029 (Contract 5): Sandra Schmirler Way, Lewvan Drive, Former Craig Golf Course and Regina Avenue
Investment
The Southwest Sewer Upgrade Project - Contract 1: approximately $13 million.
Total investment for Contracts 1 to 5: approximately $100 million.
Map
