Speakers’ Corner Drainage Renewal Project Update

The temporary stormwater bypass that was installed following an emergency response at Speakers’ Corner in Wascana Centre last summer will continue to operate through 2024.The City of Regina is working on a long-term solution with local Indigenous Nations, the Provincial Capital Commission (PCC) and Water Security Agency (WSA). Collaborating on large-scale projects like this one demonstrates the public sector’s commitment to finding efficiencies and cost-savings whenever possible.

A permanent solution is required to redirect stormwater and restore the northwest entrance to Wascana Centre. The nine large pumps near Speakers’ Corner will be activated again this spring to manage spring meltwater and rain events. This temporary bypass solution in Wascana Centre east of the Albert Memorial Bridge will be required until a permanent solution is constructed.

Park users will notice that the stairwell and under-bridge path will be closed on both sides of the Albert Street Memorial Bridge throughout 2024. The promenade along the west end of Wascana Lake will be open except during heavy rainfall events. The safety of Regina residents and Wascana Centre users is our number one priority.  

Recognizing this work occurs on Treaty 4 land, the City has invited the Indigenous community to advise and engage with the intent to incorporate Indigenous perspectives into the project outcomes. “We are dedicated to building meaningful relationships with the Indigenous community, while working together with PCC and WSA”, said Deputy City Manager of City Operations, Kurtis Doney.

Following this year’s planning around engineering and design, construction is set to begin in 2025.