One of downtown Kelowna's largest high-rise to finally be built

Since 2008, the Lucaya development on Sunset Drive has sat long forgotten but it will finally be completed and given a new name.

Kerkhoff Construction has officially assumed full control of the former high-rise and plans to construct a 21-storey high-rise as soon as possible with the new name 1151 Sunset Drive. The project was stalled because of the economic collapse eight years ago when original developer Redux Corp. was unable to secure additional funding. Work had begun at the site, including pouring concrete for the foundation and an underground parkade but it never made it to completion.

Once the money dried up, a construction crane sat on the property for three years, sometimes positioned over the nearby road, which prompted complaints from residents. But in 2015, the dusty and graffiti coloured eyesore was set to breathe new life. A new owner was announced and discussions were taking place with the city.

Chinese development company Jingon Development Group, based out of Richmond, was named as the new owner and working to obtain original permits with the plan to build the property as originally designed. The announcement came in January with sales to take place in mid-April and construction slated for May. The developers had anticipated building completion by spring of 2017. But that never happened.

With the former owners now in the past, Kerkhoff Construction says it will finish the condo project, which is slated to include 117 condos and seven townhouses. The company hopes to launch its presentation centre by mid-August at the former Waterscapes Sales Centre at 1001 Manhattan Dr. Once completed, this will be the largest condo built in downtown Kelowna since 2007-2008.

“We have heard from many Kelowna residents that they are happy to finally see construction taking place, as they have been patiently waiting for progress at the site for a number of years,” said Leonard Kerkhoff, vice-president of Kerkhoff Construction.

Kerkhoff Construction has been responsible for other projects in Kelowna, including Executive House, the first high-rise condo in the city. The new development will be designed by Meiklejohn Architects, one of the leading architectural firms in the Okanagan who are known for their sustainable building practices.

There’s no word on the price point for the condos but more information is expected once the show home opens near the end of summer.