Ribbon cut on new skatepark
A new Skatepark has been opened in West Kelowna.
Members of West Kelowna council, along with community partners, Westbank First Nation and Okanagan Regional Library, took part in the opening at Memorial Park (3737 Old Okanagan Highway) with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
“We are excited to be with Westbank First Nation and the Okanagan Regional Library today to commemorate the opening of the new and enhanced Skatepark in West Kelowna,” said Mayor Gord Milsom. “This popular amenity will provide opportunities for all ages and abilities to enjoy and be a welcoming place to gather.”
A public opening event is scheduled for 2022, depending on B.C. COVID-19 measures.
The city outlined the benefits of the new design:
- Adding a mini ramp at one end of the smaller bowl
- Opening up the entrance to the bowls to allow for better flow and safer crossings
- A new “island” feature to allow for looping circulation around the street lanes
- Bank features for variety and to maintain skateboard flow
- Flexible space to accommodate recreation and cultural programming or serve as an overflow skate area when not in use by others
- Improved seating areas and a water bottle refilling station
“The design and construction of the new Skatepark could not have been achieved without the valuable input from our Skatepark community and the public. We are grateful for their participation and passion,” said Milsom.
As construction is now complete, the existing Skatepark will be decommissioned in preparation for construction of West Kelowna’s first City Hall and a permanent home for the Westbank Library Building at 3731 Old Okanagan Highway.
The detailed design of the new building is underway. From now through to Oct. 3, the community can provide input on the final design at ourwk.ca/cityhallproject.