Article content

After all the attention on nearby downtown streets with debates about bus routes and bike lanes, Saskatoon city hall is shifting its focus to Second Avenue.

The City of Saskatoon is seeking input on how to update the appearance and amenities of the downtown street, with emphasis on year-round decorative lighting.

We apologize, but this video has failed to load.

tap here to see other videos from our team. Try refreshing your browser, or City of Saskatoon aims to update Second Avenue streetscape Back to video

An open house was held in a building on the corner of 21st Street and Second Avenue on Wednesday afternoon.

Brent Penner, executive director of Downtown Saskatoon, the downtown business improvement district, said Second Avenue has evolved into a corridor with restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.

“It’s just time,” Penner said in an interview.

At the south end of the avenue by the South Saskatchewan River, recent developments include the Remai Modern art gallery and the megaproject on Parcel Y at River Landing.

Nearly 30 years ago, Second Avenue become one of the first downtown streets to undergo so-called streetscape improvements. They included wider sidewalks, which made room for park benches and trees, and new lighting.

Mid-block crossings were also added. The changes were deemed a big success at making the street more attractive and drawing investment.

ptank@postmedia.com

twitter.com/thinktankSK