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March 04, 2025 - 7:00 PM
The City of Kelowna is planning a massive investment of $150 million into more than 100 infrastructure projects.
“Many of the projects identified for construction this year focus on renewing existing infrastructure and making targeted investments to keep Kelowna running smoothly and safely while accommodating population growth," infrastructure delivery manager Brian Beach said in a press release issued today, March 4.
The funds are going towards 52 transportation projects, 23 park projects, 38 utilities projects and 20 protection projects which will all be completed this year.
“Our goal is to keep citizens safe and healthy by enhancing services. At the same time, we are creating opportunities for economic development by providing the necessary infrastructure support for businesses to thrive," Beach said.
Some of the bigger projects are the $3.9 million Rutland Recreation Park, a $16 million K.L.O. bridge replacement, $3.9 million for Mill Creek flood protection, and $3.6 million for the Glenmore Road sanitary trunk.
The city said the protection projects will “build sustainability and longevity by safeguarding neighbourhoods against a changing climate, including flood mitigation, diversion and restoring our natural habitats.”
Not all the funding for the 133 projects comes from tax collection. The projects are being funded through federal and provincial grants, reserves, loans, user fees, utility revenue and funds collected from new development projects to pay for associated infrastructure.
Meanwhile, the City of Vernon has plans to spend $28 million on capital projects that include extending sidewalks, transportation networks, roads, drainage systems and parks, according to a press release from the city.
“With Vernon’s continued growth and the need to replace City infrastructure, these improvements are crucial to meeting the needs of our residents today,” mayor Victor Cumming said in the release. “By investing in lifecycle replacements and upgrading existing infrastructure, we are ensuring reliability, creating a stronger, more connected community and enhancing the quality of life for all residents.”
Vernon residents can expect new roundabouts at Pleasant Valley Road and 39 Avenue, as well as Phoenix Drive and Silver Star Road. The city is working on a new airport taxi apron, replacing playgrounds and court surfacing at several parks around town, and the second phase of the Vernon Creek naturalization in Polson Park.
There is a capital works open house on March 6 at the Vernon Recreation Centre so the public can ask city staff about these projects.
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