Kelowna eyes grant funding for rejuvenation of the Island Stage

Photo: Nicholas Johansen/file

The City of Kelowna is hoping to access a new grant available through the province to kickstart rejuvenation efforts of the Island Stage.

The city has earmarked the stage, situated within a man-made lagoon in Waterfront Park, for refurbishment.

Money was set aside in 2022 for an assessment and updated conceptual design for potential upgrades to the stage which was constructed in the early 1990s.

"Project consultation is currently underway with accessibility, safety, and flexibility included as key factors for consideration," a report from city staff states.

"Outcomes of the consultation process include conceptual site design, technical recommendations, estimated construction costs, and suggested performance infrastructure."

Now, the city is hoping to gain access to up to $1 million in provincial funding through the Destination Development Fund.

An initial expression of interest submitted by the city has resulted in an invitation to proceed to the next phase of the process, a full application for grant funds.

Council is required to demonstrate support for the project in order to apply for the grant.

"The grant application will address phase 1 of the project which will have an immediate impact on the ability to host larger events and festivals while still maintaining the flexibility needed for community activations that add to the vibrancy of Kelowna and boost visitor experience."

The funding would help increase spectator capacity and event space, improve accessibility and safety and improve space for operations and logistics.

The report concludes provincial funding along with reserve funds would provide the money needed to have an immediate impact on hosting more significant events at the Island Stage.