Photo: Google Street View

It appears the city will go ahead with its idea to turn a portion of the lane linking Bernard and Lawrence avenues into a people space.

City council will be updated Monday on discussions to date, and plans to move forward this summer and in the coming years.

Council was in favour of the original plan that would see a small portion of the lane, which opens onto Bernard near The Sails, turned into a people-friendly space.

Since the initial discussion in November, staff have engaged with interested groups such as the Downtown Kelowna Association, ARTSCO, Kelowna Ballet, UBCO Arts / Education, Urban Development Institute, Under 40 Group and local business owners.

In his report to council, real estate manager John Saufferer proposes cleanup of the laneway, including pressure washing the buildings and lane, take place June 3 and 4. Lights would also be strung up between buildings, while the asphalt would be painted with a fun, and vibrant pattern.

The lane would be closed to vehicular traffic.

He proposes a soft opening for the space June 16, in conjunction with the DKA's Small Shop at Night promotion.

There is the potential for live music and food service in the space.

Saufferer says the minor changes this year will give those involved with the project a chance to talk with people about possible uses for the space in 2017 and beyond.

He says seeing how people use the space will, in effect, let the space reprogram itself.

"The project team’s intent is to implement a permanent placemaking initiative in 2017, incorporating the lessons learned and input received in this year to ensure that the long-term project is completed in a manner that maximizes the benefits to the local community," says Saufferer.