Construction on the Edmonton Avenue Child Care Facility continues in Kiwanis Park. The project hit a key milestone this week as wall construction got underway. The 116-space facility is a partnership between the City of Penticton, Province of British Columbia and OneSky Community Resources, with funding from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM).
The City of Penticton is contributing the land for a minimum of 60-years, the Province is contributing $1,954,250 and $1M is coming from UBCM towards construction costs, with OneSky being responsible for operations and maintenance.
“Council is very pleased to see this much anticipated project underway and visible signs of progress underway with crews on site and walls going up,” said Penticton Mayor, John Vassilaki. “Once open, this new facility will provide much needed space for parents of young children in Penticton. Once again, Council thanks the Province and OneSky for their support and involvement on this important project.”
“Congratulations to the City of Penticton for starting work on this important new child care facility that will have more than 100 child care spaces for local families,” said Katrina Chen, Minister of State for Child Care. “This is one of many projects underway throughout the province to build more child care spaces to help parents – especially mothers – to return to work or pursue other opportunities. We’re building a future where child care is a core service available to every family that wants it, when they need it, and at a price they can afford.”
“Families, more than ever before, need quality, inclusive, and affordable childcare supports and want to know their young ones are being cared for in a loving environment with skilled staff. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with the City of Penticton on this project with the generous support of the Province and UBCM,” said OneSky Executive Director, Tanya Behardien. “We know that this project will alleviate stress for many of our local families and their children will love the new space!”
Families looking to include their child on the facility waitlist should contact OneSky Community Resources (250-492-5814). Families and members of the public are urged to continue maintaining a safe distance from construction activity while using Kiwanis Park. Intermittent closures in the area may be necessary as construction continues.
Further information about the project can be found at www.penticton.ca/childcare/edmonton-avenue-child-care-facility-kiwanis-park