Slow year for new projects

Photo: Wayne Moore - Castanet File Photo

An expansion of Rutland's Centennial Park soccer field is being considered.

There aren't many large capital projects on the books in Kelowna this year.

The city plans to spend $45 million on new infrastructure projects in 2016, half of the $90 million in 2015.

Some of the larger projects include:

• Soccer field expansion at Rutland Centennial Park.
• Roundabout at the intersection of Valley and Cross roads
• Infrastructure improvements along Ethel Street and Bernard Avenue that promote active transportation.

Along with new construction, about $146 million is being carried over from 2015.

These include Kelowna International Airport improvements, the new RCMP detachment and construction on the downtown library and Memorial Arena parkades.

Residents will get a chance to review information on capital projects during an open house March 30. It's set to run from 3 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. at the downtown library on Ellis Street.

The open house will also include information on the Development Cost Charges bylaw.

DCC's are fees imposed on developers to help offset infrastructure expenditures incurred to service new developments.

The fees, which have not been updated since 2011, are expected to rise between four and 14 per cent.