Busy Year For Development

Vernon had a busy year for new development.

The city issued over one thousand building permits last year, an increase of 14% over 2015.

“It’s great growth in Vernon, and I think it’s going to continue for at least a couple more years,” says Mayor Akbal Mund.

Mund says notable projects include the Hamlets ($20 million), Parkwood Retirement Residence ($18 million) and BX Crossing Apartments ($12 million).

“There is still a shortage of all kinds of housing in our community. A house goes on sale and it’s snapped up within a week,” adds Mund.

“The level of development activity in the city speaks to the attractiveness of the area as well as the commitment the city has to working in partnership with developers and builders in the community,” says Kim Flick, Director of Community Infrastructure and Development Services

Infrastructure investment in 2016 was $11.9 million and over $13 million will be spent in 2017 on key projects.

Some of the big projects planned for 2017 include 30 Street reconstruction in the downtown core, Kalamalka Lake Road upgrade (including a multi-use trail) and sanitary sewer upgrades in Okanagan Landing.

Photo: The Hamlets residential care home on 29th Avenue is expected to be completed this year