West Kelowna Celebrates Completion of Phase 1 of Improvements to Brown Road

News Release

Project will benefit pedestrians, cyclists and commuters thanks to government support

June 28, 2014 – West Kelowna, British Columbia – Infrastructure Canada

After undergoing a makeover for most of the past year, a busy section of Brown Road, between Main Street and Bering Road, was officially opened today on time for the District of West Kelowna's annual Westside Daze Parade. The first phase of the Brown Road Streetscape Improvement Project is an integral part of the ongoing revitalization of Westbank Centre, the District's urban and commercial core.

The project involved a wide range of infrastructure improvements, including a new road surface and new sidewalks, the addition of designated parking stalls, improved street signage and pedestrian crossings, and new curb and gutter installations. In addition, overhead utilities were moved underground and the streetscape is now adorned with ornamental lampposts and street furniture.

Funding for this $3.16 million project was provided by a variety of sources, including $586,034 through the federal Gas Tax Fund, $75,000 from BC Hydro's Beautification Program and $20,000 from ICBC's Road Improvement Program. The District of West Kelowna provided the remaining funding.

Quick facts

The Government of Canada provides $253,276,892 in annual funding for municipal infrastructure in British Columbia through the federal Gas Tax Fund.
The Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) administers the Gas Tax Fund in BC, in collaboration with Canada and British Columbia.
Since the District's incorporation in December 2007, the federal Gas Tax Fund has made over $8.4 million available to West Kelowna.

Quotes

"Vibrant, dynamic commercial districts attract visitors, provide jobs and services to residents, and they stimulate the economy. This project is an important step in the right direction for West Kelowna, and a testament to what it is possible to achieve when we work together as partners at all levels of government to build a better British Columbia."

- The Honourable Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia and MLA for Westside—Kelowna

"Since 2006, our Government has been investing in infrastructure projects that strengthen the economy and contribute to healthier, more sustainable communities across the country. Thanks to the strong relationship with our partners, we are pleased to be part of this ongoing effort to revitalize West Kelowna's downtown streetscape, which will greatly enhance the area and improve the economic viability of the District's business core."

- Dan Albas, Member of Parliament for Okanagan—Coquihalla

"Since incorporation in 2007 West Kelowna Council's key priority is economic development and the revitalization of our commercial centre. The streetscape improvements on Brown Road are a first step in creating a vibrant, beautiful public space for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy while complementing parking and vehicle demands. This project will lead the way in the revitalization of our downtown and future development in the area. While we have experienced both successes and challenges in the end I believe we have met the expectation of residents and the business community."

- Doug Findlater, Mayor, District of West Kelowna

"High quality roadways that support multiple modes of travel are a key to managing growth and development in BC's communities. I appreciate the support provided by all funding partners to renew this section of Brown Road."

- Rhona Martin, UBCM President

Associated links

See how the federal Gas Tax Fund provides long-term funding to help local governments build and revitalize their local infrastructure.
Learn more about the New Building Canada Plan, Canada's largest long-term infrastructure plan, which will provide stable funding for a 10-year period.
Consult Canada's Economic Action Plan to learn more about the Government of Canada's focus on jobs and the economy.

Contacts

Vincent Rabault
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Infrastructure, Communities and Intergovernmental Affairs and
Minister of the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec
613-943-1838

Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
Communications
250-953-3677

Kirsten Jones
Communications Supervisor
District of West Kelowna
778-797-2253
Paul Taylor
Director of Communications
UBCM
250-356-2938

Infrastructure Canada
613-960-9251
Toll-free 1-877-250-7154
Email: media@infc.gc.ca
Twitter: @INFC_eng
Website: Infrastructure Canada

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West Kelowna Celebrates Completion of Phase 1 of Improvements to Brown Road

News Release

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