Kelowna reports structural and aquatic construction progress at Parkinson Recreation Centre
Mass-timber roof trusses at the Parkinson Recreation Centre construction site, in an image published by the City of Kelowna in September 2026.
Photo credit: City of Kelowna
KELOWNA — Structural steel and mass-timber construction at Kelowna's new Parkinson Recreation Centre is nearing a major milestone, while work on the building's swimming pools and mechanical systems continues, according to the city's October 20 construction update.
The primary structural framework of the building's north section is nearing completion. Interior walls for the hot tub and leisure pool have been completed, and installation of pool mechanical equipment is underway.
Steel-stud framing is progressing around the administration and childcare areas as part of the building's exterior envelope. Mechanical, electrical and plumbing work is also continuing throughout the recreation centre.
The city expects the gymnasium's mass-timber superstructure and redevelopment of the Parkinson Activity Centre parking lot to be completed by the end of October. Roofing of the building's north section is anticipated by year-end, with construction of the south-facing superstructure scheduled to begin in December.
Related site improvements are continuing around Mill Creek, where planting and bridge work is planned for November. Road improvements at Spall Road and Parkinson Way are expected to be completed this year, with remaining work scheduled through spring 2027.
The existing Parkinson Recreation Centre remains open during construction, with recreation programs continuing. Access to the Apple Bowl from Burtch Road is restricted, and the city recommends parking at the lot off Spall Road.
The redeveloped Parkinson Recreation Centre is expected to open in late 2027. The project is part of the city's $293-million Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative, which includes recreation facilities, sports fields and related infrastructure.
Construction is also progressing at Rutland Recreation Park, where crews are preparing the foundation for a new artificial turf field and installing underground storm drainage and water lines.
The $5.2-million project includes improvements to an adjacent natural grass field, expanded pathways and event space, irrigation upgrades, and infrastructure to support future field lighting, washrooms and changerooms.
According to the city, the artificial turf field will provide nearly three times the annual playing time of a natural grass field, extending the playing season for local sports organizations.
The October construction update forecasts project completion in early 2027, while the city's capital-project information identifies spring 2027 as the anticipated date for the field to be ready for use.
Some areas of Rutland Recreation Park remain closed during construction. The city says access to neighbouring soccer and baseball fields is being maintained where possible. Earlier construction notices also identified restrictions affecting Sportsfield R1, the dog park and community garden.
Construction is underway at the city's three new activity-centre sites in Glenmore, Rutland and Mission, following groundbreakings earlier this year. The October update did not announce revised opening dates for those facilities.
The federal government is renewing $30 million in funding for a national loan program that helps women start or expand businesses, with loans of up to $50,000 available through participating nonprofit organizations.