Coldstream Station on Kalamalka Road is now open (Vernon Matters photo)

By Pete McIntyre

Rail Trail link

All aboard: Coldstream Station opens

Mar 23, 2023 | 10:31 AM

The newest public facility in Coldstream opens today.

Coldstream Station at 16506 Kalamalka Road, just north of Dutch’s Campground, includes a parking lot, public washrooms and tourist information (wayfinding) signage.

New Coldstream Station is at entrance to Coldstream from Vernon. (Vernon Matters photo)

The District of Coldstream said the site will be a major attraction and connection point for users of the Okanagan Rail Trail.

It is also the main entrance feature for people entering into Coldstream from Vernon along Kalamalka Lake Road.

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“The parking area is able to accommodate community events such as farmers markets, mobile vendors, and community celebrations, creating economic activity for our community and residents,” a news release from the District stated.

Coldstream mayor Ruth Hoyte thanked the provincial and federal governments for helping to fund the project, which she expects will be a busy place.

“We are excited to add this wonderful amenity to our community,” Hoyte said. “Coldstream Station will provide the community with a central gathering place for community events, access to the Okanagan Rail Trail and also to support local businesses in the community.”

The construction contract, valued at $1.6 million, was undertaken by TKI Construction of Kelowna. The project was funded by a provincial grant of $624,257 from the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure Program with the rest from the Community Works Fund (federal gas tax).

A new Sun Country Cycle store is at the south end of the site.

Washroom building at Coldstream Station. The initials ‘WC’ stand for Water Closet which means a compartment or room with a toilet. (Vernon Matters photo)

“Shared public spaces are the heart of communities across Canada. They bring together people of all ages and abilities, supporting businesses and stimulating local economies,” Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, said. “Investing in Coldstream Station will help locals and visitors alike better access the natural beauty of the Okanagan Valley and also create a vibrant community hub that will be enjoyed for years to come.”

“Investments in tourism infrastructure projects like the Coldstream Station are good for visitors, good for communities and good for the economy,” Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport, said. “The tourism investments we’ve made in regions throughout the province are creating a more vibrant British Columbia for everyone.”