Council to receive presentation on process to create a plan for the east portion of Skaha Park

“When looking at the entire park, City staff and several key stakeholders now hold the common view that any long-term planning for Skaha Park should focus on the east side,” said Acting Director of Development Services, Ben Johnson. “Much of the park is functioning well and is in good condition, however there are challenges and opportunities to explore in this part of the park, including the need for a long-term vision for the marina, aging facilities like the spray park and boat house, a desire to improve walking connections between areas of the park, and beach erosion concerns.”

Planning for the park’s future will build on directions in the 2018 Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and will be informed through a public engagement process. This process will involve stakeholders and the community in the development of a vision and plan, gather their views on commercial uses like the marina, and create an opportunity for residents to be involved in identifying priorities for the east part of the park. Ideas from a recent citizen-led park design process will also be incorporated into the engagement and planning for the park.

“We’re pleased that the City has narrowed the focus of the plan to address the pressing needs of this unique east section of the park and are delighted that the concept that we have created through many discussions with stakeholders and residents is going to be integrated into their work,” says Peter Osborne, a Penticton resident who led the development of a concept for the park.

“Council is looking forward to receiving the presentation staff have prepared outlining the process by which a much needed plan for the east side of Skaha Park will be created with the public’s involvement,” said Penticton Mayor, John Vassilaki.