Armstrong starts planning for transformation of downtown

Oct 10, 2023 | 5:00 PM

The City of Armstrong is looking to get community input as its launches planning for a major project.

The Comprehensive Armstrong Revitalization Initiative (CARI) will reimagine the main corridor, from Smith Drive, along Pleasant Valley Road/Boulevard to the new City Hall.

The community will provide input for improvements to the downtown and to prepare for the arrival of the Rail Trail.

The project is being funded by the Province of B.C.’s Rural Economic Diversification and Infrastructure Program and the Economic Trust of the Southern Interior, and has been awarded to McElhanney Ltd.

“McElhanney brings years of experience to this project with a skilled in-house team” Mayor Joe Cramer said. “Community outreach is going to be a critical part of the project, with workshops, open houses, and online surveys planned for the fall and spring.”

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The funding also allows the city to appoint a part-time, contract economic development coordinator with Dione Chambers, formerly of the Greater Vernon Chamber, chosen for that position.

“Her role will be instrumental in overseeing the CARI project, liaising with the business community and preparing an economic development action plan,” a city news release stated.

“We recognize that a strong economic plan is critical to realize the community’s long term economic sustainability,” Laurie Cordell, manager of planning services, said.

The project is underway, and residents and business owners are invited to join in the following ways:

• In-person walk-shops the week of October 23 (all community members welcome).

• Targeted workshop on November 2 by invitation (business owners and community partners)

• Open house the evening of November 9 (all community members welcome).

For those who cannot attend an in-person event and want to provide feedback, they can do a self-directed walk-shop, booklets can be found at the City Hall and/or take the online survey. There will also be a chance to review and provide feedback on the draft plan before adoption by Council.

Visit HeartofTown.ca for project information and future engagement events.

Funding for construction is not within the scope of this project and will be considered through future city budget and grant application processes.

The initiative is also supported by the Armstrong Spallumcheen Chamber of Commerce, Communities in Bloom and Community Futures North Okanagan.

by Pete McIntyre

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