A conceptual image of the Artwalk extension planned for the former RCMP site in downtown Kelowna is seen in this submitted photo.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/City of Kelowna
January 07, 2021 - 10:59 AM
The initial plan for the site of the former Kelowna RCMP detachment in downtown Kelowna is to create a new civic plaza and extend the Artwalk.
The long-term lease of 350 Doyle Ave. has been finalized and all conditions lifted, according to a City of Kelowna press release.
The City will receive $7 million for the initial 80-year lease. Of this, $4.3 million will be directly reinvested into the site to develop a new civic plaza, Artwalk extension and 6,000 square feet of community amenity space.
READ MORE: Development of the former RCMP site in downtown Kelowna moving ahead with RISE
Work is underway to investigate the feasibility of establishing a new Creative Hub in the community space and a report and recommendations will be provided to council for consideration, the City said.
“We’re seeing exciting new elements on the horizon as downtown Kelowna continues to grow in step with our city,” said Graham Hood, strategic land development manager, in the release.
Streetscape conceptual design
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/City of Kelowna
“With many new residential units in the pipeline to strengthen downtown housing needs and a new downtown UBC Okanagan campus being developed, adding to our renowned waterfront parks, active transportation corridors and eclectic food and beverage and retail sector, this development is another step in ensuring downtown Kelowna is an attractive place to live, work and play into the future," Hood said.
The future of the Kelowna Community Theatre is also one of the next major steps in maximizing the vitality of the precinct and the creative community, the City said.
The site on the corner of Doyle Avenue and Water Street has been intentionally earmarked for a future performing arts centre.
The existing site can accommodate a larger auditorium, and more extensive front- and back-of-house amenities to serve Kelowna’s audiences and performers. Funding for the project will be assembled through a number of sources. Council has provided budget in 2021 to support research into a range of funding and partnership options.
It is anticipated the developer, RISE Commercial Developments, will proceed with the public development permit process and rezoning later in 2021. The timeline for construction is within three years of the closing date.
For more information about the Civic Precinct Plan, visit the city's website here.
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