Business case launched for Penticton’s future arena plans

PENTICTON – The City of Penticton is moving ahead with its plans to build a business case for the city’s arenas.

Director of Recreation and Facilities Bregje Kozak said in a press release issued today, Jan. 9, consultants Sierra Planning and Management have been hired to study the feasibility of the city’s plans for its ice surfaces, which were adopted by council last year following recommendations of the Arena Task Force.

Proposals for future use include a new, twin-surface, multi-sport facility on the South Okanagan Events Centre campus, conversion of Memorial Arena to a dry floor facility and a planned decommissioning of McLaren Arena.

Mayor Andrew Jakubeit says the city’s vision for its rinks could involve a $34 million investment.

“The business case is the next step towards making a decision on the future of Penticton arenas and making the vision a reality,” he says, adding the city needs to support the business case with proper analysis to ensure it is the right plan for the community for the next 50 years.

Jakubeit says the business case will look at lifecycle costs to build a new facility, estimate revenue and operating expenses as well as provide a detailed traffic and parking study for the events centre property.

“Next to financial impact, one of the most common questions from residents about this proposal is the impact on traffic and parking in the area,” he says.

The consultants will also be tasked with developing a funding strategy, including providing assistance in finding grant opportunities. Results of a $6 million grant application towards the arena plan is expected to be announced early this year.

The city hopes to have the business case completed this spring.

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