The isthmus that divides Kalamalka and Wood lakes could see big changes in the years to come

Oyama residents are divided about the latest district plan for its isthmus.

The District of Lake Country recently announced the results of a feedback survey for plans for a new Oyama Isthmus Park. The property was largely acquired through the purchase of the Okanagan Rail Trail corridor in 2015, according to the district's project plan.

The new park design includes a pier, children’s play zone, a packinghouse building and community square, additional parking and a lawn set back from the beach away from the shoreline.

READ MORE: Petition calls to keep natural habitat along Oyama’s isthmus after new park design released

Of the 321 responses the district received as part of the online survey held Aug. 10 to Sept 8, 24 per cent were “very satisfied” with the project’s current plan and 28 per cent were “very dissatisfied.”

Residents who liked the plan also liked the improved water access outlined, cleaning up the site and the increase of safety, but the greatest point of concern was the loss of the small town feel and natural setting along with parking shortages and congestion issues.

Some Oyama Traditional School students also wanted to see the implementation of a zip line into the water, but Oyama Coun. Todd McKenzie said that’s a big expense.

McKenzie said he’s satisfied with the survey results.

The city will take the plan in small pieces over the long-term, he said. The plan is listed as a 20-year project.

“You can never make everyone happy, but as long as you can address the major concerns… at the end of the day we’re trying to make it a better place for the locals,” McKenzie said.

The survey results can be found on the district’s website. 

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