City of Penticton wants new hotel near South Okanagan Events Centre

The City of Penticton is hoping to make a deal that will see a new hotel constructed near the South Okanagan Events Centre.

The City is seeking expressions of interest from respondents willing to purchase City-owned property at 903 Vernon Ave. for the express purpose of building a ‘premium business standard hotel with a minimum of 90 rooms,’ according to a City of Penticton media release issued yesterday, Oct. 8.

The 1.5 acres is presently used as an overflow parking lot for the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre and the events centre.

Officials are hoping a deal can be struck and construction begun with the next two years.

“By issuing this (expressions of interest) we can formally explore the level of interest from developers in constructing and operating a hotel at this key location,' director of development services Blake Laven says in the release.

Proposals will be accepted until Oct. 29. The successful applicant will be expected to achieve certain milestones and timelines in order to ensure the hotel’s completion.

“It’s no secret Penticton has been wanting a new hotel constructed in this area for many years," Penticton Mayor John Vassilaki says in the release. "Business and tourist accommodation in close proximity to the conference and events centres carries many advantages, including the ability to attract bigger, multi-day events that typically prefer booking venues located alongside hotels."

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