New Saskatchewan Polytechnic Campus Construction Progresses

Construction is underway for the new Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus at Innovation Place, with significant developments anticipated in the coming months. The project, which aims to enhance educational infrastructure in the region, is currently in the request-for-proposal phase, set to conclude in November.

The first building to be constructed will be the Skilled Trades and Technology facility, a key component of the Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus. This building is presently in the procurement stage, with a successful team expected to be selected next month. According to Saskatchewan Polytechnic, construction is projected to commence in early 2026, although a specific timeline for completion has yet to be confirmed.

Groundbreaking for the project took place in August 2024, with initial site preparation activities occurring in September. The procurement process for the building, located adjacent to the University of Saskatchewan, began in January 2025. The provincial government has committed $200 million to this initiative, as announced by Premier Scott Moe. He emphasized the project’s significance in creating an “innovation corridor” that will leverage the combined strengths of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the University of Saskatchewan, and Innovation Place.

The concept for this new campus has been in discussion since 2015, with the provincial government first announcing funding for the project in 2023. In total, the province allocated $16 million towards the development, included in the 2024-25 budget, which also accounted for an additional $6 million directed towards design and pre-procurement efforts.

The existing Saskatoon campus, originally established in the 1940s as a vocational school, contains numerous outdated buildings that require expensive maintenance. Larry Rosia, President and CEO of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, stated that the new campus will significantly expand program capacity and create a skilled talent pipeline, ultimately enhancing economic growth and competitiveness in attracting investment to Saskatchewan and Canada.

The project aims to replace a network of eleven decentralized and aging buildings with a modern complex dedicated to learning and research. While no definitive completion dates have been provided for the first building, Innovation Saskatchewan has indicated that a target opening date is projected for fall 2029. The Skilled Trades and Technology building, alongside renovations to existing structures located at 116 Research Drive and 121 Research Drive, is expected to be finished around the same time.

Transitioning to the new campus will be a gradual process, as detailed on the Innovation Saskatchewan website. The development not only represents a significant investment in education but also reflects a broader vision for collaborative innovation in the province. As the project progresses, it is anticipated to have a lasting impact on the community and the educational landscape in Saskatchewan.