Public Works

Public works projects are expensive undertakings, yet a town must undertake such tasks if it is ever to grow to the size of a city. Because of Regina 's unappealing natural surroundings, public works projects were very important to the town. It was necessary to ensure that early Regina had as many amenities as possible to make it an attractive location for settlers.

Regina was not blessed by an abundant water supply. Ensuring that the town had adequate water was a high priority for the businessmen who made up the town council. The Boggy Creek waterworks project (1904-1906) was one of the first public works projects ever completed in Regina . Its completion ensured that Regina residents had enough water for future needs.

Similarly important was a sewer system. Regina incorporated as a city partly so it could increase its borrowing power in order to build a sewer and water system. Regina , like many frontier towns, was serviced only by a scavenger in the early days, and disease epidemics were commonplace until sewers were installed.

Regina also needed an adequate power supply. The incorporation of the town made it possible to purchase the privately owned power station and expand service to reach more of Regina 's business and residential communities.

In the early days of settlement, one of the capstones of the modern city were paved streets. The construction of the Albert Street underpass made it possible for Regina to be considered a truly modern city instead of a frontier town.

All of these public works projects helped to enhance Regina 's appeal to prospective settlers. By the 1910s, Regina could boast of many modern conveniences - sewer, water, paved streets, power - that made it an attractive location to settle and raise a family.

Home | Contact Us

Visit the City of Regina Archives Web site

© Copyright - All photos are public domain unless otherwise indicated.

Acknowledgements: