Improvements to Centennial Hall, park

Photo: Contributed - Google Street View

The City of Kelowna and Rutland Centennial Park Society have joined efforts on a Memorandum of Understanding to improve Rutland Centennial Park and Community Hall, and extend Shepherd Road to Rutland Road.

“Moving forward with an agreement of this nature allows the City to help bring this historical Rutland community amenity up to standards that will serve residents for many years to come,” says Mayor Walter Gray.

“This mutually beneficial exchange of assets also facilitates a much needed road connection to accommodate future transit services and improve vehicular circulation in the four corners area of Rutland.”

Under the MOU, the City would purchase the road right-of-way for market value to protect a future Shepherd Road connection to Rutland Road. The proceeds from the sale of the right-of-way would be reinvested by the society in the Rutland Centennial Hall.

The Rutland Park Society would transfer ownership of existing parkland to the City for community use. The City would also commit funding to improve the park space.

“This partnership with the City will provide an improved, beautiful park for the citizens of Kelowna in perpetuity,” says Rutland Park Society President, Todd Sanderson. 

“Further, by providing a source of funding to refurbish the Hall, the agreement will ensure that the Hall remains the center point for community celebrations, events, and gatherings in the heart of Rutland for many years to come.” 

While an MOU is in place, the sale of assets and planned improvements to the Centennial Hall and park are dependent on various levels of funding.