New playground for children of all abilities at Rutland Centennial Park.
Image Credit: Contributed / City of Kelowna
June 29, 2016 - 3:00 PM
Work is complete at Rutland Centennial Park just in time for kids to slide into summer.
The first phase of park improvements includes a new accessibility playground, addition of a natural turf soccer field and installation of a new irrigation system.
The orchard-themed accessible playground for all children of abilities is now open. The federal government announced a $50,000 investment in June 2015 towards construction of the $250,000 in improvements.
“The Enabling Accessibility Fund plays an important role in making sure that all Canadians, regardless of their abilities, feel welcome in their communities. I am pleased that the Government of Canada has invested in the revitalization of this neighbourhood park ensuring children and families in Rutland will enjoy this new playground for generations,” said Stephen Fuhr, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country.
The new sports field, valued at $450,000, will be able to accommodate one major, or three minor, soccer fields. In order to ensure good quality turf for a safe, quality sports surface, the field will be closed until fall.
“It is exciting to see the investment into Rutland Centennial Park take shape with these new amenities,” said Mayor Colin Basran. “Rutland already has a strong senses of community and this park will be another great gathering place while supporting opportunities for play and healthy living,” said Mayor Basran.
The City of Kelowna acquired the 2.5 hectre park space adjacent to Rutland Centennial Hall in February 2015. It has been an important gathering plan for the community since 1939 and will be protected as park for future generations.
The future master plan for Rutland Centennial Park includes a multi-cultural community gardens, entry plaza and gathering space. A road right-of-way through the existing parking lot will accommodate the future extension of Shepherd Road as part of the transit improvements in the Rutland Town Centre. The timing of future improvements is subject to funding.
For more information about this project, visit kelowna.ca/cityprojects.
News from © iNFOnews, 2016