City blames supply chain issues for delay with Kamloops spray park

Riverside Park construction is well underway, even with the threat of floods this year, but the promised spray park won't be done until 2023.

The former spray park was torn out with plans to replace it this summer, but Kamloops residents won't see it until next spring.

The City blamed "supply chain issues" and "unforseen circumstances," in a news release issued, June 24.

READ MORE: Outdoor rink at Riverside Park shelved for new washroom, spray park

City council approved the new spray park in September, and plans included new all-season, solar-powered washrooms to replace the old change rooms at the park.

Originally, the new spray park was to include an outdoor skating rink but it was deemed too costly for now. However, the park is still being built so it could host a rink in the future should the proposal return to council.

A new "inclusive" playground is also on the way for Riverside Park. It was added to the overall construction project this spring but it won't be ready until fall of this year.

READ MORE: B.C. watches flood risk as rains ease, but heat has potential to melt snowpack

Along with playgrounds, the multi-use pathway along the waterfront was widened and a new dike was built to withstand a one in 20-year flood, the city said.

The widened path and dike extend from Sandman Centre to Uji Gardens, protecting the majority of the park. Later this summer, the city also plans to upgrade lighting along the path.

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