Kelowna built a swim venue on Okanagan Lake in 1954 and now the city is building another one to replace the original that burned down in 1969.

The City of Kelowna announced a new swim venue project on the weekend that will float on the lake next to City Park next summer.

The $18 million project is going to create a free space in the water with eight 50-metre swim lanes, diving platforms and deck space, according to a press release from the city.

Most of the funding, $12.9 million, is coming from the non-profit Swim Drink Fish through its WAVE prize which is meant to help cities improve their waterfront areas. The rest of the money, $5.1 million, is coming from the city.

“Around the world, communities are reimagining their waterfronts, transforming them into places
where people don’t just look at the water, but can swim, gather, and connect,” Swim Drink Fish’s vice president Gregary Ford said in a press release.

The new facility is going to be a modern version of the Ogopogo Stadium and Pool which hosted national swimming, diving and rowing events from 1954 until it burned down in 1969.

The dock is supposed to be able to host events, programs, water polo games and more.

“The project also reflects the important relationship between recreation and environmental stewardship. By helping more people safely experience and enjoy the lake, the venue is intended to deepen residents’ connection to Okanagan Lake while encouraging care and respect for its ecological health,” the city said in the release.

The city is still finishing up the design work for the facility and is expected to begin construction this year with the dock opening in 2027.