The City of Kelowna recently celebrated the groundbreaking of the Parkinson Recreation Centre (PRC) redevelopment project, part of the Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative. Supporting the project is the team of Stantec, a global leader in sustainable design and engineering, Diamond Schmitt, and Bird Construction. 

Reflecting the unique character, natural beauty, and cultural heritage of the region, the PRC facility integrates syilx/Okanagan living history into its design, in collaboration with Westbank First Nation and the Okanagan Nation Alliance.

When complete, the redeveloped Parkinson Recreation Centre will include a 25-metre x 10 lane pool, leisure pool, hot tub, cold plunge, steam room, sauna, three full-sized gyms, fitness centre, a running/walking track, fitness studios, multi-purpose rooms, food services and the ORL express library. The facility will have five times more athletic space, two and a half times more aquatic space, and three times as many programs than the existing PRC. 

The 19.4-hectare park, the equivalent of 20 football fields, will include 6 sports fields, 24 pickleball courts, connections to the Apple Bowl Stadium, Mill Creek, park space, and access to the Okanagan Rail Trail. 

“By reimagining the Parkinson Recreational Centre, we will create a multi-functional hub that supports the holistic growth and well-being of the Kelowna community,” said Joel Sawatzky, Stantec practice leader and Kelowna resident. “Together with our partners, we are helping the City of Kelowna reinvigorate this cherished landmark. As designers and local residents, our Stantec team is proud to be part of this vital investment that will be an inclusive and welcoming resource for present and future generations.” 

Supporting a Thriving Community

The Building Stronger Kelowna initiative is the largest capital project in the City's history. The project is funded through a $241-million loan from the Municipal Finance Authority, as well as grant contributions. The City received $25.1 million from the Provincial-Federal Child Care New Spaces Fund to create 273 new childcare spaces. The project is additionally benefiting from a $13.2-million contribution that the City has received from the Growing Communities Fund provided by the Province of British Columbia.  

Stantec is ranked as a top 10 design firm by Architectural Record and Engineering News Record and ranked as the number one architecture/engineering firm by Building Design + Construction for 12 consecutive years. The firm’s supportive and people-oriented design solutions serve project and community objectives while reflecting the distinct context, history, and culture of place. Learn more about how Stantec designs for civic pride.