City’s application to exclude land from ALR for future Kelowna transit facility approved

A critical next step has been taken for the future of transit operations in Kelowna.

On March 31, the Agricultural Land Commission (ALC) approved the City of Kelowna’s application to exclude a piece of land from the Agriculture Land Reserve (ALR).

The 16.2-hectare parcel at 4690 Hwy 97 will be the site of a future transit facility.

“We appreciate the ALC decision in this case, which represents a significant milestone for the project, and success of the City’s advocacy efforts,” said Mayor Colin Basran.

“The City respects the ALC’s role in preserving agriculture land that is critical to the economy and culture of Kelowna and we remain committed to agricultural protection and advancement opportunities beyond those stated in this application.”

Basran added that the new site’s proximity to a FortisBC substation meets a key goal with the ability to electrify the transit fleet.

The parcel was acquired by the City in 2017 to accommodate a future transit facility, which is to be developed in conjunction with BC Transit and required to support Kelowna’s transportation needs.

The existing trans facility on Hardy Street is past its capacity, the City explained, and a new transit yard is necessary to meet community needs and Kelowna continues to grow rapidly.

“Public transit provides a basic mobility service for youth, students, commuters, seniors and to everyone without access to a car,” Basran noted.

The mayor said it also helps to “reduce road congestion and travel times, air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and energy and oil consumption – all of which benefit everyone in our community.”

Next steps for this project include subdivision and rezoning of the parcel, as well as an application to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program to secure funding.