CaDCR staff writer
The Ministry of SaskBuilds and Procurement, in partnership with Saskatchewan Polytechnic, has launched a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a design-build team for the new Skilled Trades and Technology (Trades) building, the first major construction project at the upcoming Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon campus.
The building will be constructed using a Design-Build procurement model and will provide modern, state-of-the-art facilities designed to support the province’s growing demand for skilled trades professionals.
Work on the site is already well underway, with preparations including the removal and upgrading of underground infrastructure, tree relocation, and grading. The majority of the site preparation is expected to be completed by spring 2025, setting the stage for the construction phase.
“This is an important next step in building the new Saskatoon campus,” said SaskBuilds and Procurement Minister David Marit. “We are pleased to work with our partners to make this happen. The RFQ process demonstrates our commitment to creating a top-tier facility for students and industry, and it will help us find the right team to bring this vision to life.”
Part of a larger project to revitalize the post-secondary education landscape in Saskatchewan, the trades building will be built on a greenfield site adjacent to the University of Saskatchewan at Innovation Place Saskatoon, the building will serve as the first piece of a consolidated campus that will ultimately replace a network of outdated facilities.
“Saskatchewan’s post-secondary institutions are key to solidifying our reputation as a hub for innovation,” said Minister Responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan, Warren Kaeding. “This new campus will offer more opportunities for Saskatchewan students and will help attract top talent, positioning our province to lead in innovation for generations to come.”
The new campus will provide hands-on training to meet the growing demand for skilled workers in Saskatchewan’s labour market.
“I am excited to see the Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Joseph A. Remai Saskatoon Campus project moving forward,” said Advanced Education Minister Ken Cheveldayoff. “This new campus will play a critical role in preparing students to meet Saskatchewan’s workforce needs, ensuring the province remains competitive and attracting top talent from across the country.”
The procurement process follows extensive consultations with faculty, students, the City of Saskatoon, and other stakeholders. Saskatchewan Polytechnic values the feedback it has received and looks forward to creating a learning environment that meets the needs of students, industry, and the province.
The Saskatchewan government is investing heavily in the campus, with the province committing $16 million to the project in the 2022-23 fiscal year. In addition, the 2024-25 provincial budget allocated $6 million for design and pre-construction work, with up to $200 million in total funding for the campus over the long term.