Regina’s Dewdney Avenue is undergoing a major revitalization project that has been in the works for years. The city council is leading the project, aiming to transform the area into a more vibrant community with a focus on pedestrian access and public gathering spaces. The groundbreaking ceremony for the project took place recently, with Mayor Sandra Masters expressing excitement about the plans and the potential for Dewdney Avenue to become a cool Warehouse neighborhood. The project will be completed in phases over the next two years, starting with updates to water and sewage mains this summer and superficial additions such as boulevards and greenery in the 2025 construction season. The total cost of the project will be $32 million, funded by three levels of government.
The City of Regina purchased ‘The Yards’ in 2012, and funding for the revitalization project was approved in 2018. The area is intended to be a mixed-use site with the potential for a recreational facility. Regina’s Warehouse District executive director, Leasa Gibbons, highlighted the structural changes that will occur during the project, such as the replacement of aging underground infrastructure, widened sidewalks, and multipurpose outdoor spaces. These changes will transform Dewdney Avenue into a safer and more exciting space for residents and visitors. Gibbons emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure for businesses to not only survive but thrive, stating that transforming the traffic corridor into a main street will have a generational impact on the city.
Despite the benefits of the revitalization project, businesses in the area are preparing for the challenges that come with construction. While acknowledging the inconvenience, business owners like Mark Heise of Rebellion Brewing and Heike Edwards of the Wine Cellar understand that the short-term pain of construction will lead to long-term gain for the community. Heise mentioned that they have anticipated this project for years and have been advocating for it, emphasizing the importance of investing in infrastructure for the success of businesses in the area. Edwards echoed the sentiment, expressing anticipation for the finished product while acknowledging the challenges of the construction phase. The first phase of construction is set to begin soon, with lane restrictions between Albert Street and Broad Street.
The Dewdney Avenue revitalization project is seen as a significant investment in Regina’s infrastructure and community development. The city council’s plans aim to create a more vibrant and pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with public spaces for gatherings. The total cost of the project will be $32 million, funded by three levels of government. Business owners in the area recognize the long-term benefits of the project, despite the short-term challenges of construction. The first phase of construction is scheduled to begin soon, marking the start of a transformative process for Dewdney Avenue and the surrounding area. Businesses are preparing for the disruption that construction will bring, with a focus on the ultimate goal of a more attractive and thriving community.
