Residents can expect to see more investments in infrastructure and community amenities this year thanks to partnerships with the federal and provincial governments.
“In Penticton, we have an ambitious list of projects as we work towards building a safer, resilient and more livable and accessible community,” says Mayor Julius Bloomfield. “A key component to our success is the funding provided through the Canada Community-Building Fund, in partnership with the Union of BC Municipalities, through the Community Works Fund Program. It’s partnerships like this that provide predictable funding that allows us to focus on key projects that support Penticton’s growth.”
“Through the Canada Community-Building Fund, our government is investing in important local priorities and projects here in Penticton,” said the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Member of Parliament for Kelowna and Secretary of State (Defence Procurement) “These projects will strengthen local infrastructure, create jobs, and build a more vibrant future for the community to grow and thrive.”
"Strong infrastructure is good for people and key to successful communities,” said Ravi Kahlon, Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs. “We are happy to collaborate with all levels of government and invest in developments that improve the lives of British Columbians for generations to come."
Some of the projects that are funded or partially funded through Community Works funds include:
• Skaha Park upgrades: Renewed splash pad, which is now open.
• New pickleball courts: Next to the Seniors Centre at Robinson Park are now complete.
• Sidewalk network improvements: Middle Bench Road is now complete and detail designs for improvements along Manitoba and Ontario Streets, are complete and construction will commence this summer.
• Traffic calming and crosswalks: Construction has been completed for various traffic calming projects, including Lee Avenue/Skaha Lake Road, Moosejaw Street/Eckhardt Avenue, and Lee Avenue/Cypress Street.
• Sportsplex: Roof replacement, which was completed in early June.
• Cleland Theatre: Facility equipment replacement, which is scheduled for installation in August.
• Point Intersection: This project is now substantially complete, with landscaping to be completed this summer.
• Lake-to-Lake Route: Construction of the final section of the route has been completed.
The Canada Community-Building Fund provides predictable, long-term and stable funding to local governments in British Columbia for investment in infrastructure and capacity-building projects.
Penticton received $1.7 million last year and is slated to receive a further $1.7 million for 2026 and just over $1.8 million in 2027 and 2028.