Something’s happening with the old Highway 97C tourism centre

If you’ve driven into the Okanagan from Highway 97C lately you might be wondering what’s going on with the tourism centre.

The tourist information centre just outside Peachland is getting a big upgrade that’s nearly complete, according to the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association.

“The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration Centre is undergoing a major renovation that will transform the visitor centre to be an even more engaging and informative gateway into the region,” the association’s CEO Ellen Walker-Matthews said in an email.

“Construction is planned to be complete by late spring, at which time we will make a formal announcement about the opening and ongoing plans for the centre.”

They’re keeping details under wraps until then.

A sign at the centre says the renovation’s phase two has a budget of $1.1 million.

The centre has services like a regular visitor’s centre with advice for tourists and promoting local events, plus EV charging stations and a shop with local and Indigenous products.

The Thompson Okanagan Tourism Inspiration and Training Centre usually opens in May to welcome tourists to the area, and this year they’ll be walking into a revamped building.