2026 06 24 Parks and Trails Master PLan Final Draft

Parks And Trails Master Plan

JUNE 2026 – FINAL DRAFT

SECTION 1

INTRODUCTION

This document is a supplemental update to the 2017 Parks and Trails Master Plan. The original master plan outlined a vision for the parks and trails system for the next 20 years with the understanding that the plan would be revisited in the interim. This document reaffirms, adjusts, and supplements the 2017 plan but does not replace it entirely.

The primary focus of this document is to ensure that the plan remains in alignment with Osoyoos’ current conditions. Over the years, various changes and developments have occurred within the community, necessitating an updated plan that accurately reflects these new realities. This ensures that the parks and trails continue to meet the evolving needs and expectations of residents and visitors.

Additionally, this update aims to integrate the outcomes of other town planning efforts completed since the 2017 plan was drafted. These efforts include new strategic initiatives and infrastructural developments that directly impact the parks and trails. By consolidating these elements, a more cohesive and comprehensive planning framework is created.

It is crucial to remove recommendations from the original plan that have been completed or are now obsolete. This allows for the elimination of redundant elements and a focus of resources on new and emerging priorities that will enhance the overall effectiveness of the parks and trails system.

While this supplemental update provides a clear set of recommendations and implementation priorities, it is intended to serve as a starting point rather than a fixed roadmap. The Parks and Trails Master Plan is a living document that should continue to evolve as community needs, funding opportunities, development patterns, and Town priorities change over time. As individual projects move forward, public input will continue to inform priorities and plan implementation. Future reviews and updates will help ensure that the plan remains relevant and practical.

The supplemental master plan will:

y Ensure the plan reflects other town planning work completed since the 2017 draft.

y Remove completed or obsolete recommendations.

y Add new recommendations as needed to meet current needs of the Town.

y Provide more detailed information on the implementation and phasing process.

y Present an updated, thorough future plan for Gyro Park.

REAFFIRMING THE MASTER PLAN VISION AND GOALS

The original vision statement in the 2017 Master Plan, which remains relevant today, has been reframed into four easy-to-digest statements:

1.

We collaborate with community partners to offer a diverse network of high-quality, safe, and well-managed parks and trails that celebrate our natural heritage and Indigenous stories.

2.

Our accessible and seamlessly connected network encourages residents and visitors to be more active at all stages of life.

3. 4.

We protect sensitive ecosystems, scenic landscapes, and vital habitats as an integral part of our outdoor open spaces.

We come together as a community to offer residents and visitors a diverse range of sophisticated outdoor recreational and cultural experiences.

Similarly, the 2017 Master Plan goals have been reframed as follows:

y Accessible & Inclusive: Ensure our parks and trails are equitably distributed across the municipality and designed with improved accessibility for everyone.

y Enhanced, Diversified & Expanded: Enhance the quality of parks and trails by improving amenities and expanding recreational opportunities to meet the diverse needs of residents and tourists.

y Connected: Foster a network of parks and trails that not only physically connect residents and visitors but also promote social connections within the community.

y Conservation & Functioning Ecosystems: Conserve and restore natural habitats and ecosystem services within our parks, contributing to ecological connectivity in the region.

y Shared Stewardship: Engage residents as partners and stewards in the planning and management of our parks and trails. Ensure active management and maintenance to provide a safe and memorable experience for visitors.

y Economically Beneficial: Promote fiscal responsibility and sustainability by fostering strategic partnerships and supporting the growth of tourism in our region.

RECENT PLANNING DOCUMENTS

Since the 2017 Master Plan, the Town has completed or is in the process of completing several updates to Town planning documents and developing new planning documents. These planning documents have been reviewed in the preparation of this supplemental update document and the summary table below provides a valuable for professionals planning, designing, and constructing future parks, trails, and open space projects in Osoyoos.

Document Status

Active Transportation Master Plan (ATMP)

Relevance

Completed in 2023 This document provides detailed recommendations on biking and pedestrian infrastructure development locations, phasing and costing. The ATMP recommendations have been reviewed against the ones in the 2017 master plan for potential gaps and conflicts. The ATMP is very detailed and provides a comprehensive plan for the future, which makes the trail recommendations in 2017 Parks and Trails Master Plan either obsolete or duplicate. The ATMP should supersede the pedestrian and cyclist route recommendations in the 2017 Parks and Trails Master Plan.

Zoning Bylaw No 1395 In Progress

Zoning Bylaw is in continuous review process. Based on the draft bylaw (2024-06-18), the document will provide the following information related to parks and trails planning:

y Provides regulations on the Parks and Recreation (PR) Zone’s permitted uses, accessory uses and other regulations, such as maximum parcel coverage.

y Provides General Regulations for the development of buildings and structures on land parcels.

y Provides designation of floodplains and flood construction levels, and provides siting requirements for buildings and structures within floodplains to ensure safety and compliance.

y Provides regulations and standards for off-street parking and loading spaces, including accessible parking spaces and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Official Community Plan Completed in 2022 The intent of the Official Community Plan (OCP) is to guide the long-term development and growth of the community, with a strong emphasis on integrating parks and trails to enhance connectivity, promote active living, and support environmental conservation.

The intent of the Official Community Plan (OCP) is to guide the long-term development and growth of the community, with a strong emphasis on integrating parks and trails to enhance connectivity, promote active living, and support environmental conservation. The OCP provides the following information in relation to parks and trail planning:

Document Status

Relevance

y Designates areas for active parkland and recreation, including parks, trails, beaches, sports fields, and courts.

y Encourages the integration of parks and trails into the community to enhance quality of life and promote active living.

y Promotes the development of an integrated system of roads (on-street biking), trails, and that connects residents to schools, public facilities, and parks.

y Integrates trails into highway improvement projects and ensures connections to regional destinations like the Kettle Valley Rail (KVR) Trail.

y References the Parks & Trails Master Plan (2017) for developing appropriately sized and linked trails and active transportation routes.

y Encourages the protection of natural areas and the integration of parks and trails to enhance environmental conservation efforts.

Accessibility Plan Completed in 2023 The intent of the 2023 Accessibility Plan is to enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of community facilities, including parks and trails, ensuring they are usable and welcoming for all residents. The following provides key points related to parks and trail planning:

y Recommends installation of Mobi-Mats at beaches and purchase of a Mobi-chair and Trail Rider to improve accessibility at beaches.

y Recommends improvements to sidewalks and trails, including curb ramps (curb let-downs) and wheelchair accessible ramps.

y Recommends the development of accessible playground equipment.

y Identifies the need for accessible paths in parks and accessible benches and picnic tables.

y Identifies barriers to accessibility, including the need for accessible parking, accessible washrooms, and accessible walkways, crosswalks and intersections.

y Outlines short-term capital projects, some of which relate to parks and trails.

Document Status

South Okanagan

Aquatics Facility

Feasibility Study

Town Centre renewal Plan

Relevance

Completed in 2022 This plan does not have a direct impact on the Parks and Trails Master Plan. However, one of the potential sites considered was Desert Park. Ultimately, Osoyoos was not the recommended location for an aquatics facility.

Completed in 2018 This plan references and builds on the Parks and Trails Master Plan in relation to Gyro Parks improvements and development of the pedestrian and cyclist network in the downtown area. The plan recognized the importance of Gyro Park as an extension of the downtown core and its role in activating Main Street.

Urban Forestry Plan

Flood Mitigation Plan

Completed in 2018 The Osoyoos Urban Forestry Plan aims to enhance the town's green infrastructure by integrating urban forestry efforts with parks and trails, promoting sustainability, biodiversity, and community engagement. Park and open space are acknowledged as important locations for urban forestry and play an important role in biodiversity.

Completed 2022 The purpose of the Town of Osoyoos Flood Mitigation Plan is to identify and address flood risks to protect the community, infrastructure, and environment. Especially in relation to lakeside trail and parks, this document is critical for siting future built infrastructure.

Parks, Trails and Public Building Assessments and Asset Management

Age-Friendly Assessment and Action Plan

Ongoing Currently, the Town is assessing public buildings, parks and trails infrastructure as part of an asset management plan. This plan will provide information on lifecycle management and phased replacement of aging infrastructure and buildings.

Completed 2018 Master planning work, policy, or recommendations from the Age-Friendly Assessment and Action Plan:

•Recommendations for improving accessibility in parks and trails, including the installation of benches, shade structures, and accessible pathways.

•Provides feedback from community members highlights the need for more accessible and well-maintained parks and trails to support active aging.

•Emphasizes the importance of safe and connected parks and trails to encourage physical activity and social interaction among older adults.

•Outlines strategies for age-friendly enhancement of parks and trails.

PLANNING FOR 2045

As Osoyoos looks ahead to 2045, thoughtful planning becomes essential to accommodate the anticipated growth and evolving community dynamics. This section examines how the parks and trails system can evolve to accommodate demographic shifts and the needs of an active tourism sector. By addressing the distinct needs of future residents and visitors, Osoyoos can foster inclusive, sustainable, and enjoyable outdoor spaces that enhance quality of life and promote environmental stewardship.

Planning for Future Residents

This Supplemental Update provides additional guidance for the future of the parks and trails system for the next 20 years. Based on medium (3%) growth projections in Osoyoos’ Official Community Plan, the population of Osoyoos is anticipated to increase from 5,556 residents to approximately 8,088 residents by 2045.

Currently, a large portion of the population is over the age of 60, with a median age of 63.2, which is higher than most BC communities. Based on demographic trends from the 2006 census to the 2021 census, it is expected that the proportion of residents over the age of 60 will continue to increase over time and that the young adult population will remain relatively stable in numbers.

Future demographic trends are expected to influence the parks and trails network in the following ways:

y An aging population will require features like benches, shaded areas, accessible paths, better lighting, and easy access to emergency services.

y Universal design principles will become increasingly important to ensure parks and trails are accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

y There will be a growing demand for senior fitness programs, including low-impact exercise classes, walking groups, and yoga sessions, as well as intergenerational activities to foster social interaction.

y The need for tranquil spaces within parks for relaxation and contemplation will increase, along with the popularity of community gardens and green spaces to encourage outdoor activities and social interaction.

y Regular community engagement will be vital to gather feedback and understand the evolving needs and preferences of residents, and volunteer programs involving seniors in the maintenance and programming of parks and trails will become more significant.

y Eco-friendly practices in the development and maintenance of parks and trails will be increasingly important, such as using native plants and promoting biodiversity, along with planning for climate resilience to ensure parks and trails can withstand extreme weather conditions.

Planning for Future Tourists

Tourism is a major economic driver in Osoyoos, shaping many aspects of community life, including parks, trails, and other outdoor recreation areas. In 2022, a study called Economic Impact & Value of Tourism in Osoyoos, was completed to better understand local tourism industry. The document includes detailed analyses of economic impacts, visitor motivations, resident perceptions, and strategic recommendations to enhance the local tourism sector while addressing its challenges.

In relation to the parks and trails system, the following was noted in the study:

y Visitors who engaged in outdoor activities such as visiting parks and trails were significantly more likely to promote Osoyoos’ to others as a positive tourist destination.

y Outdoor activities, such as visiting parks and trails, were identified as key motivators for travel to Osoyoos.

y Residents expressed some concerns about tourists’ behavior in parks, trails, campgrounds, and other outdoor recreation areas

y Residents believe that tourism contributes to the protection, conservation, and preservation of biodiversity and local landscapes. However, there are significant concerns about the environmental impacts of tourism, particularly related to pollution, waste, and litter in outdoor recreation areas

y One of the strategic priorities identified by the executive panel is to address the negative aspects of motorized boating on beach-goers and enhance the availability and quality of outdoor recreation activities

The recently completed Tourism Master Plan (2025–2035) for Osoyoos and Regional District OkanaganSimilkameen provides additional direction on how parks and trails contribute to the region’s visitor economy. The Tourism Master Plan emphasizes enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities, improving trail connectivity and wayfinding, and investing in tourism-supportive infrastructure such as waterfront access, amenities, and four-season experiences. These directions reinforce the role of parks and trails as key assets in supporting both resident quality of life and a resilient, sustainable tourism system.

COMPARABLE COMMUNITIES ANALYSIS

A comparable communities analysis was conducted to evaluate Osoyoos’ parks and recreation amenities. Similar municipalities in British Columbia, such as Creston, Peachland, Ladysmith, Qualicum Beach, Sechelt, and Summerland, were selected based on population size, projected growth, and high median age.

This analysis compares Osoyoos to similar communities, highlighting strengths and identifying opportunities to enhance recreational amenities for current and future needs. The following table provides a comparison of Osoyoos’ current park and recreation amenities with those of similar communities, highlighting per capita provisions and identifying potential gaps or opportunities for improvement:

In general, Osoyoos is very well provisioned now and for the future projected population in 2040. However, current amenity profile demonstrates both strengths and areas for potential improvement.

Osoyoos shows notable investment in traditional sports facilities, with baseball/softball and multi-use soccer fields exceeding the average of comparison communities. This does provide the opportunity to transition a couple soccer fields and baseball diamond into alternate uses if space if needed for other activities, if the operational costs are excessive, or if these are overlapping fields (i.e a ball diamond that overlaps with a soccer field).

An additional playground couple be added to the inventory; however, it is not an immediate need and should be built in response to either the lack of playground amenities in a specific location of the community or the opportunity to provide complementary family-based activities in busy areas (i.e. a beachfront park).

SECTION 2 PROJECT PLANS

This section outlines the key project plans guiding the enhancement and development of Osoyoos’ parks, trails, and recreational spaces. These plans address current needs, plan for future growth, and ensure outdoor spaces remain accessible, inclusive, and well-maintained. Gyro Park recommendations and phasing is not included in this section and is addressed in Section 3.

Each plan prioritizes sustainability, community engagement, and an improved recreational experience. Recommendations are phased into short-, mid-, and long-term actions based on priority, funding, and demand.

These plans capture major renewal projects, such as facility upgrades and new amenities. They do not include routine lifecycle replacements, such as pathway repairs or bench replacements.

The following key project plans are included in this section:

y West Bench Complex – Reorients and upgrades pickleball courts, improves drainage, adds shade structures, and develops a new trail connection.

y Kinsmen Park – Upgrades playground equipment, adds accessible pathways, and converts an underused soccer field into a fenced dog park.

y Skateboard and Bike Park – Evaluates potential bike park sites, integrating it with the skate park to create a youth recreation hub.

y Southeast Meadowlark Park – Develops a neighborhood park with trails, seating, and environmental protections around Kettle Pond.

y Osoyoos Park – Creates a new lakeshore park for passive recreation while coordinating with adjacent residential development.

y Desert Park – Assesses long-term potential as a multiuse recreational facility, balancing existing uses with new sports amenities.

y Conservation Areas – Focuses on naming, preserving, and managing sensitive areas, including trail formalization and stewardship efforts.

y Trails Network & Active Transportation Plan – Provides an overview of trail network enhancements, new multiuse paths, and safety improvements.

RECOMMENDATIONS

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Reorient pickleball courts to north-south alignment, which will require widening the asphalt pad, realignment of fencing and court resurfacing.

y Regrade area around pickleball courts to direct drainage from dog park area away from asphalt court pads.

y Construct a new trail from the north parking lot to the tennis courts and dog park.

y Minor parking lot improvements including curb stops, slightly expanding in some places to better define parking areas.

MID-TERM (5 TO10 YEARS)

y Add a water tap near south parking area.

y Provide a shade structure (i.e. shade sails) near pickleball/tennis courts to provide users with relief during hot weather.

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEAR)

y When the pickleball courts are near full capacity (see Appendix A for additional information), additional pickleball courts should be constructed.

y Pave the existing north and south parking lots and access roads.

RATIONALE

y Pickleball players have requested that the current east-west facing courts be rotated to north-south. East-West court alignment is not optimal for players because it requires one player to look directly into the sun. This is especially true since players favor the cooler morning and evening hours for play. Beyond discomfort, this causes safety issues, since players cannot see the ball coming when looking into direct sunlight.

y Currently, drainage from the dog park area moves south down the slope towards the pickleball courts and there is ponding and differential settlement in the southwest corner of the asphalt area. This drainage issue is causing deterioration of the asphalt pad and causing minor impacts to players using the south court. Site drainage needs to be improved to ensure that the courts are not further damaged.

y Adding a water tap at the West Bench would be useful for people using the dog park, ball diamonds and courts. This would support people who use the facilities and may expand the use of facilities (i.e. court hours) in peak heat hours.

y Provide a shade shelter (i.e. shade sails near the pickleball and tennis courts to provide reprieve from sun and support the use of the facilities at all times of the day. Depending on court user data, the addition of shade sails over the courts may be more cost effective than adding additional courts.

y Future growth in pickleball users overstretch the capacity of the existing four courts (see Appendix A for additional information). The addition of two courts will continue to provide a beneficial recreation activity for a wide demographic and continue to provide a level of service similar to other nearby communities.

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Osoyoos Pickleball Club

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y General Public

y Osoyoos Pickleball Club

RECOMMENDATIONS

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Replace the existing playground equipment with updated, accessible features for a variety of age groups and abilities, along with improved safety surfacing.

y Construct accessible pathways leading to the shelter and play area, and install accessible picnic tables within the shelter.

y Add a few benches near accessible play equipment for parents and caregivers, with strategically planted trees to provide shade.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEARS)

y Convert the existing soccer field into a small, fenced dog park, including entry gateways, a looping pathway, and seating areas with waste disposal stations.

y Remove or abandon the existing irrigation system and install a fence divider north of the washroom building to define the dog park boundary.

y Plant trees for shade in seating areas, with temporary fencing to protect them as they establish.

y Install an exterior faucet or dog watering station outside the washroom building to support park users.

OFF-LEASH AREA OPTIONS

RATIONALE

Accessible play opportunities are currently limited within the town, and Kinsmen Park presents an ideal location for improvements. The site offers open space and existing play pods with aging equipment that require replacement. Enhancements such as a new walkway and entry signage will lay the foundation for greater accessibility, ensuring that the park can better serve children of all abilities.

The addition of a centrally located dog park responds to longstanding community requests. The town’s only existing dog park is situated on the far west side of the community, making it less convenient for many residents. Repurposing the underutilized soccer field provides an efficient solution, as the space is wellsuited for a fenced dog park while maintaining the park’s overall recreational function.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Internal coordination with the Accessibility Committee

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y General Public

y Sports Organizations

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Review the land use considerations of the Townowned residential property south of the existing skate park. While the site is currently zoned as Active Parkland, it is being used for staff housing. The decision to transition this site into a bike park must be carefully weighed against the Town’s priorities for staff housing.

y If the site is approved for park use, preliminary planning work will be required to assess current site conditions and potentially remove existing structures and other items before proceeding with park development.

y If the site does not proceed as a bike park, this project should transition to Jack Shaw Park, which was previously considered as a potential location.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEARS)

y Engage landscape architecture and bike park design consultants to develop the conceptual and detailed design for the project. This process should include site investigations such as surveying and geotechnical assessments as needed. Some design considerations for the site:

y Integrate with the skate park to create a cohesive recreational hub for youth and young adults.

y Develop a small pocket park near the road with shade and amenities to support both bike and skate park users.

y Utilize existing parking at the adjacent arena to accommodate increased park activity.

y Mitigate noise and privacy concerns for nearby residents through fencing and landscape screening.

y Construct the bike park, implementing the design and ensuring it meets the needs of the community while integrating with surrounding recreational amenities.

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEARS)

y None

RATIONALE

y Osoyoos previously had a BMX park at the West Bench Complex, but it was removed to make way for a dog park. There has since been ongoing community interest in re-establishing a bike park.

y Bike parks provide accessible recreation for a broad demographic, from young children to adults, and serve as an introductory space for riders before progressing to larger trail networks. Establishing a bike park would also diversify Osoyoos’ recreational offerings and promote equitable access to outdoor activities.

y Two locations have been considered: Jack Shaw Park and the Town-owned residential property near the skate park. The site near the skate park is preferred due to its synergy with existing recreation spaces and its ability to support a broader youth and young adult demographic, but its current use for staff housing creates a land-use conflict that must be addressed before development can proceed.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Osoyoos Bike Club+

y Local Schools & Youth Organizations

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y Bike and Skateboard Communities

y Youth

y General Public

RECOMMENDATIONS

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Work with the developer, design consultants and contractors to undertake the planning, design and construction work necessary for the park development project

y Consult with residents in neighbourhoods near Kettle Pond as part of the planning process since they had previously voiced concerns about development around the pond and potential environmental impacts.

y Park development should focus on protecting and enhancing the natural environment around kettle pond, formalizing access points to the pond, providing a looping trail network that connects to adjacent sidewalks, providing benches and garbage cans at key locations, and providing a neighborhood-level playground.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEARS)

y None

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEARS)

y None

RATIONALE

The development of a park within the Southeast Meadowlark subdivision is essential to supporting the livability of this growing neighborhood. As the area transitions into a medium-density residential community, the park will provide much-needed green space and recreational amenities for residents. It will serve as a gathering space for social interaction, outdoor activities, and community-building.

Integrating this park into the neighborhood will enhance walkability, access to nature, and overall quality of life, ensuring that new residents have access to public outdoor spaces close to home. Additionally, the park will support sustainable urban development by incorporating natural landscaping and preserving key environmental features where possible.

Adjacent resident have expressed interest in the development of a playground, walking trails and environmental enhancements of the pond area.

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

POTENTIAL

PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Land Developer

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y General Public

y Neighbouring Residents

Note: This site is a 0.17 hectare parcel of undeveloped land zoned as Active Recreation. The site is located between the lakeshore and the new residential development at 8000 Cottonwood Drive.

RECOMMENDATIONS

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Coordinate with the developer to understand the full build-out of their site and the anticipated demographics of future residents. This will help ensure that the park design aligns with the evolving needs of the community.

y Work with the developer to explore opportunities for integrating landscape plans and outdoor spaces between the development and the park, creating a cohesive and complementary design.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEARS)

y Engage a landscape architectural consultant to develop a comprehensive vision for the park, defining its unique character and ensuring it complements other parks in Osoyoos.

y Plan for a mix of activities, amenities, and gathering spaces that support passive recreation, small-group social activities, and ecological and riparian protection, ensuring the park fosters both environmental and social value.

y Consider incorporating an anchoring activity that aligns with the needs of the adjacent residential demographic, such as a unique play space or an outdoor activity feature, while ensuring the park remains primarily for neighborhood use rather than a broader destination.

y Construct the first base-level improvements, including pathways, turf, and tree plantings, to establish the foundational framework for the park.

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEARS)

y Complete construction of the enhanced-level design for the park site, implementing the full vision developed in the mid-term phase, including refined amenities, landscape enhancements, and final infrastructure improvements.

RATIONALE

Osoyoos Park is a newly designated park site that remains undeveloped. At approximately 0.17 hectares, it is relatively small and best suited for neighborhoodlevel passive recreation, with a focus on beach and waterfront activities. As the adjacent Selah residential development progresses, the park will need to be developed to serve the growing community, ensuring that it provides accessible and meaningful outdoor space for local residents. Though its development is closely tied to the new residential project, it should be acknowledged that this park is intended to serve the greater neighborhood and Osoyoos as a whole.

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Adjacent land developer

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y General Public

y Adjacent Residents

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Develop a preliminary site plan and conduct stakeholder engagement to determine a viable future of Desert Park as a community recreation hub. This process should:

y Assess the land-use potential of the site, balancing its recreational opportunities with broader community needs.

y Evaluate existing site infrastructure, including utilities, parking, and access, to determine servicing requirements.

y Review the current lease agreement with the horse training facility to understand its long-term viability and potential implications for future site planning. Horse training has been identified as a declining use for the site since at least 2007, and long-term planning should consider whether it remains a sustainable function or if a transition to alternative recreation uses is necessary.

y Develop a site program that builds on existing recreation uses, such as the sports fields, while exploring new uses that are not currently well accommodated in Osoyoos—such as pickleball expansion or the potential relocation of lawn bowling from Gyro Park.

y Recognize that Desert Park is adjacent to a conservation area, requiring further assessment to ensure ecological protection if site changes are proposed.

y Study the feasibility of repurposing, expanding, or replacing existing buildings on-site to serve a broader range of community organizations and recreational activities. This should include an economic evaluation of renovation versus redevelopment to ensure the most cost-effective and functional outcome.

y Complete critical repairs and maintenance on existing facilities that will remain in use in the short term.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEARS)

y Develop a conceptual master plan for Desert Park, considering multi-use recreation opportunities, community needs, and potential revenuegenerating uses. Master plan will include a phased implementation plan, and a long-term maintenance and operational plan to support sustainable use of the site.

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEARS)

y Depending on the phasing plan created in the master planning stage, begin phased implementation of the Desert Park redevelopment.

RATIONALE

y Desert Park is the largest parcel of developable active parkland available to the Town, and the Town may need this space to accommodate recreational needs and consolidate aging municipal buildings while still providing space for community organizations.

y Desert Park is a large site with aging infrastructure, including major components such as the recreation facility and several horse barns, which have limited remaining lifespan and require strategic investment for upgrades, redevelopment, or repurposing.

y Previous feasibility studies have considered this site for large-scale recreation projects, including an aquatic and multi-use facility, making it an important asset in the Town’s long-term recreation strategy.

y Balancing public and private investment opportunities will be crucial in determining the most beneficial long-term use of the space.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS)\

y Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI)

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y Desert Park Exhibition Society

y Sports Organizations

y Recreation and Social Organizations

y General Public

RECOMMENDATIONS

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Officially name the conservation areas to inspire stewardship

y Conduct a topographic survey and assessment of informal trails through the area to develop few formalized gravel trail network

y Confirm the conservation value of the “Y” site (currently a lack of information) determine the level of recreational use and potential need for rehabilitation.

y Initiate an environmental review of the site to ensure that formalized trail network stays away from rare plant species, critical habitat areas, and areas with erosion risks. Also determine the level of recreational use and modes of movement that are appropriate for the sites, conservation values.

y Work with local stewardship groups to create a “friends of” initiative to tackle weed and litter management. Support them with matching grant opportunities.

y Work with adjacent property owners to ensure that they are not encroaching on the conservation land.

y Provide garbage cans at each trail entrance to help limit littering

y Provide entrance signage to note the limitations of the site and trails and the conservation goals of the site.

y If biking is determined to be in conflict with conservation values, work with local bike community to promote areas as being bike free.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEAR)

y Construct a “spine” network of key formalized gravel trails and decommission, sign or potentially block trail spurs to keep people on track and away from environmentally important areas.

y Provide fencing, barriers, boulders, if needed, to visually reinforce site boundaries and prevent encroachment by adjacent properties.

y Provide interpretive signage near key ecological areas to encourage stewardship.

y Provide benches in a few strategic locations to improve accessibility and allow people to enjoy the site.

y Rehabilitate key damaged areas previously been negatively impacted by former use.

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEAR)

y None

RATIONALE

y The Conservation Area near Strawberry Creek Road is designated as Environmental Conservation but lacks active protection efforts.

y The “Y” site, though classified as Active Parkland, is identified in town plans as environmentally significant and requires assessment for appropriate protection.

y Informal trails allow unrestricted movement, and adjacent property encroachments may need correction. Low-impact recreation, such as gravel trails and interpretive signage can encourage stewardship and partnering with local groups to help address invasive weeds and littering.

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: Timeline does not include permitting, procurement and tendering. See Appendix D for cost estimate and implementation timeline.

POTENTIAL PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Osoyoos Desert Centre

y Nature Conservancy Canada

y British Columbia Conservation Foundation / British Columbia Conservation Grant Fund

y Grasslands Conservation Council of BC

y South Okanagan Similkameen Conservation Program

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y General Public

y Osoyoos Desert Centre

y Osoyoos Bike Club

ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION PLAN

The Osoyoos Active Transportation Network Plan (2023) provides the detailed framework for the development of the town’s trail network, outlining specific projects, priorities, and infrastructure improvements. This section offers a high-level overview, while the Active Transportation Network Plan should be referenced for full details on trail development and implementation.

RECOMMENDATIONS

SHORT-TERM (1 TO 5 YEARS)

y Begin phased implementation of priority trail improvements identified in the Osoyoos Active Transportation Network Plan. This includes enhancing existing trail connections and addressing missing links.

y Improve accessibility and safety features along key trail corridors, including wayfinding signage, lighting, and surface upgrades to accommodate all users.

y Coordinate with the Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MoTT) to explore improvements at key crossings and high-traffic areas where trails intersect with major roads.

y Provide fitness equipment/wellness stations on popular corridors such as Pioneer Walkway and in Gyro Park.

MID-TERM (5 TO 10 YEARS)

y Continue expanding the multi-use trail network to strengthen connections between neighborhoods, parks, and key destinations such as schools, businesses, and waterfront areas.

y Develop new trails or improve existing ones to enhance regional connections, supporting both recreational and commuter use.

y Upgrade key intersections and trailheads with improved crossing infrastructure, seating areas, and additional signage to promote safe and intuitive navigation.

LONG-TERM (10 TO 20 YEARS)

y Complete the full build-out of the Trails Network Plan, ensuring a seamless and well-integrated system that supports both local and regional active transportation objectives.

RATIONALE

y Osoyoos has a growing demand for safe and connected trails that support walking, cycling, and other forms of active transportation.

y The Active Transportation Network Plan outlines a clear strategy for expanding and improving trail infrastructure, addressing gaps, and increasing connectivity throughout the town and surrounding areas.

y Trails play a vital role in local mobility, recreation, and tourism, making them a key investment for long-term sustainability and accessibility.

y Enhancing trail infrastructure also supports climatefriendly transportation options, promoting reduced vehicle reliance and increased outdoor activity for residents and visitors alike.

POTENTIAL

PARTNERSHIPS AND FUNDING

y Ministry of Transportation and Transit (MoTT)

y Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS)

y Destinations Osoyoos

y Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI)

PROJECT COSTS AND TIMELINE

*Note: No trail improvements costing or implementation timelines have been provided in this master plan due to the unknown nature of the future upgrades.

PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION

y Bike Community

y Osoyoos Bike Club+

y General Public

SECTION 3

GYRO PARK REDEVELOPMENT

Gyro Park is a vibrant centrepiece of the Osoyoos community, cherished by residents and visitors alike for its picturesque lakeside location and its role as a hub for recreation, relaxation, and cultural events. At the end of Main Street, where downtown meets the lakeshore, the park offers green spaces, beaches, picnic areas, and facilities for volleyball, lawn bowling, and community gatherings, recreational activities such as volleyball, lawn bowling, and community gatherings. Its central location and diverse offerings make it a vital asset for fostering community engagement and enhancing the quality of life in Osoyoos.

Over the years, Gyro Park has become a focal point for events of all sizes, from intimate family picnics to large-scale concerts and festivals. However, the park’s current design and infrastructure face challenges in meeting the growing and evolving demands of the community and its visitors. Key issues include improving accessibility, expanding event spaces, and upgrading infrastructure for daily use and large events. Aging facilities, such as the Senior Centre, are nearing the end of their lifecycles, creating opportunities to reimagine their future use.

The following recommendations address these challenges while preserving the park’s natural beauty and community role. Gyro Park is not only essential for the daily lives and recreation of residents but also serves as a crucial destination for Osoyoos’ large seasonal visitor population. Proposed improvements include reconfiguring event spaces to accommodate a wider range of activities, enhancing accessibility throughout the park, and introducing new features such as picnic shelters, multi-purpose structures, and upgraded pathways. These enhancements are designed to ensure that Gyro Park continues to serve as a dynamic and inclusive space that meets the diverse needs of its users, both now and in the future.

With a phased approach to development, the master plan envisions a park that is adaptable, resilient, and capable of hosting events ranging from small gatherings at the bandshell to large-scale celebrations that utilize the entire oval lawn area. By blending thoughtful design with community input, the revitalization of Gyro Park will reinforce its role as a cornerstone of Osoyoos’ recreational and cultural identity. While the master plan establishes a long-term vision for the park, specific implementation timelines are not prescribed. The timing and prioritization of improvements will be guided by evolving Town priorities, funding opportunities and strategies, and ongoing public input as projects advance.

PREVIOUS GYRO PARK PLANNING CONTEXT

Over the past two decades, several planning initiatives have shaped the vision for Gyro Park. These include:

y 2007 Osoyoos Waterfront Master Plan – Established a framework for waterfront development, emphasizing connectivity, recreation, and environmental stewardship.

y 2013 Gyro Park Concept Plan – Provided detailed design recommendations for park enhancements, including event spaces, accessibility improvements, and infrastructure upgrades.

y 2015-2016 Gyro Park Pier Advancement Study – Explored the feasibility of reintroducing a pier, ultimately determining that high costs and construction challenges made it unviable.

These plans shaped early redevelopment efforts, leading to key improvements. However, some recommendations remain unrealized or have been reassessed due to shifting priorities.

General Park Improvements Community plaza, interpretive signage, accessibility upgrades

Seniors Centre & Lawn Bowling

Band Shell & Event Spaces

Two-phase plan to relocate amenities for expanded open space

New bandshell with terraced seating and AV infrastructure

Beach & Waterfront Pier with pavilion, beach enhancements, and moorage

Picnic & Play Areas

Parking & Access

Commercial & Seasonal Facilities

Environmental & Safety

Enhancements

New picnic shelters, barbecue areas, and play spaces

Reconfigured parking, shuttle drop-off, and service pathways

Food concessions, paddleboard/kayak rentals

Shoreline restoration, water quality monitoring, riparian plantings

Pathways and plaza completed; signage, public art not fully realized

The Seniors Centre and lawn bowling have not been relocated so full redevelopment is incomplete

Existing aging bandshell remains and planned upgrades not implemented

Pier project canceled due to high costs and engineering challenges. Main issue was the need for exceptionally deep pile to anchor structure to lakebed

Some picnic tables added but other amenities, such play spaces and barbeques incomplete

Partial reconfiguration completed

Concession operational but rental services not yet developed

Some shoreline work completed but water quality efforts and riparian plantings not completed

CURRENT RECOMMENDATIONS

The following sections outline the current recommendation for Gyro Park based on the concept plan in Appendix C.

South Picnic Area

The southern tip of Gyro Park will be redeveloped into a formalized picnic area. This area will include three new picnic shelters equipped with accessible tables. Additionally, approximately six open picnic tables will be placed in the lawn area, two of which will be accessible and connected to the multi-use pathway.

The ramp will be improved for accessibility, and a new pathway will connect the park’s southern tip to the sidewalk. The gentle grade of this pathway will provide an alternate accessible option to the existing ramp and will also accommodate service vehicles needing to access the park.

A new pathway connection will lead to the retaining wall adjacent to the beach. This retaining wall will be modified to include stairs, allowing for easy access from the picnic area to the beach. The intent is to encourage visitors to use this area of the water, thereby reducing congestion in other beach areas.

To support activities in the South Picnic Area, a new washroom building will be constructed. This

modest structure will feature two accessible stalls, both accessible from the exterior of the building. Additionally, a small nature-based play pod will be introduced, featuring a unique play element designed for children ages five and up, with portions of the structure suitable for younger children as well.

New tree planting will be incorporated throughout the South Picnic Area to provide shade for activity spaces, enhancing comfort for visitors and promoting a cooler, more inviting environment during warm weather.

In the narrow beach area near the Watermark Resort, casual picnic site improvements will be implemented. Approximately seven picnic tables will be added, with some tables designed to be accessible and placed on concrete pads that connect directly to the multi-use pathway.

Two new access pathways will be constructed to provide universal accessibility to the beach area from the multi-use pathway. In the future, one or both of these pathways could be equipped with Mobi-Mats to allow accessible entry into the water.

Additional trees will be strategically planted to provide shade for the picnic tables, creating a more comfortable and enjoyable environment for visitors.

Central Beach Area

The central beach area is located at the heart of Gyro Park and is currently a very active space. A few picnic tables are scattered among the mature trees in the lawn area adjacent to the beach. This area will be improved with additional picnic tables, including accessible tables with direct access to the plaza area.

A Mobi-Mat is already in place to support water access for individuals with accessibility challenges. To further enhance accessibility, a portable and aesthetically designed shed structure will be installed to store additional accessibility aids, such as the MobiChair.

The existing seasonal floating dock will remain, though its configuration and location may change over time. A permanent dock facility, as proposed in the 2016 master plan, is no longer feasible and has been removed from consideration in this master plan. Based on a 2018 engineering assessment, the required foundation piles would have been prohibitively deep, making the cost of such a project astronomical.

In the easternmost portion of the central beach, there are three existing beach volleyball courts. All three courts have permanent metal posts, but only one court has a net installed throughout the entire volleyball season. The volleyball organization that uses the site temporarily installs nets on the other two courts when in use. It is recommended that the three courts could have permanent nets installed throughout the volleyball season.

Central Park Area

The Central Park area currently includes the washroom and concession building, plaza, seating areas, lawn bowling, amphitheater, and Senior Centre. While functional, this area becomes highly congested during events, with many amphitheater-based events outgrowing the available space. This area is reimagined as a multipurpose space for both casual use and scheduled events.

The lawn bowling area is recommended to be relocated to a different site within the community. Its current use serves a relatively small segment of the population, and the required fencing restricts movement through the site. Furthermore, due to the nature of the activity, the space cannot be used flexibly for multiple purposes or to better support events held within the park.

The Senior Centre and lawn bowling facilities limit site redevelopment. To support the Senior Centre, a nearby parking lot is essential, as many members are older and require accessible parking. However, the building itself is aging, and its condition is unknown. Given the age of the structure, it is likely nearing the end of its lifecycle. A building assessment is necessary to determine its remaining lifespan, enabling the Town to plan for a new location for the Senior Centre.

Rebuilding the Senior Centre at its current location is not recommended due to its position within the floodplain. Additionally, relocating this facility would allow the park site to adapt more effectively to the evolving needs of the community.

The timeframe for the removal of the Senior Centre is currently unknown, as this decision will depend on the findings of the building assessment. The assessment will provide lifecycle costing to guide the Town on the cost-benefit analysis between repairing and replacing the building.

To address this uncertainty, this master plan includes two phases. The first phase retains the Senior Centre with a reconfigured parking lot, while the second phase outlines the full removal of the Senior Centre. These two plans are designed to nest together, ensuring the site work with the senior centre and without it.

PHASE ONE (WITH SENIOR CENTRE)

The layout of this phase includes the Senior Centre and a reconfigured parking lot while removing the lawn bowling facility. The existing northern parking lot has been redesigned for greater efficiency. By changing the shape from a triangle to a rectangle, a similar number of parking stalls are provided within a smaller footprint. This new configuration also increases the number of stalls with direct access to the walkways leading to the Senior Centre.

The removal of the northern tip of the parking lot creates open space, allowing space for a secondary event lawn and temporary stage location as well as the relocation of two volleyball courts that currently occupy the former museum site. This transformation opens up the Central Park area, enabling the amphitheater to be shifted slightly closer to the western parking lot and rotated to provide a larger area of open space for event attendees. The removal of the lawn bowling area also contributes to this expanded open space.

An oval-shaped walking network surrounds the open space, offering convenient connectivity between activities and serving as an enjoyable looping route for visitors to explore the site. A diagonal walkway cuts through the oval, providing direct access to the eastern beach volleyball courts.

The southeastern section of the oval walkway features new picnic shelters on the edge of the open space. These shelters provide shaded areas for visitors and

can be transformed into activity nodes during events. Adjacent to the former lawn bowling area and existing bench plaza, a new linear shade structure has been added, complete with tables underneath. This structure will serve beach volleyball players and beachgoers. A portion of the former lawn bowling area and park lawn has been repurposed to expand the waterfront beach area with additional volleyball courts and a nature-based play pod.

The new bandshell, reconstructed closer to the western parking lot, will be a permanent structure with a distinctive aesthetic that complements the town and surrounding landscape. It serves as both a point of interest when not in use and an essential infrastructure piece for hosting events.

Currently, there is a small plaza space to the east of the concession building, featuring four benches and six small trees. The concession building is heavily used during the summer months, and the tables beneath the building’s overhang—designated for concession vendor use—are frequently at capacity.

The open plaza area is reimagined as a covered, multi-purpose structure with walls that can be opened during favorable summer weather or closed during inclement weather and the off-season. This new structure is intended to serve a variety of purposes beyond the concession. It can support events, provide casual seating for park visitors, or be booked by the public for small gatherings, offering flexibility and enhanced functionality for the park.

PHASE TWO (WITHOUT SENIOR CENTRE)

In the second phase, the Senior Centre and its supporting parking lot are removed from the site. This change creates a large open lawn space, offering flexibility for the community to host a wide range of event sizes.

The lawn area will be regraded to provide a smooth transition from the beach area to the northern tip of the oval pathway. A short segment of the oval pathway will be constructed where the Senior Centre previously interrupted its continuity. Additionally, the stair access to the beach will be better integrated into the pathway network and formalized as a public access point.

To enhance usability, a few additional shelters and picnic tables will be added to the southeastern portion of the oval, extending this functionality further into the newly created open space and walkway system.

NORTH BEACH AREA

The North Beach area has a lower level of development compared to other sections of Gyro Park and is intended primarily for casual use by residents, rather than focusing on creating visitor-oriented experiences. This area will retain its natural, relaxed character while incorporating minor improvements to enhance accessibility and comfort.

The existing multi-use pathway will be slightly realigned to provide a more seamless connection to the new oval pathway in the central area of Gyro Park. Additionally, the existing bench nodes will be repositioned to ensure all seating faces the lake, offering unobstructed views of the water. To enhance user comfort, new trees will be planted near the benches to provide much-needed shade.

The existing steps leading down to the beach will remain in place, with one of them being widened to improve accessibility and provide easier entry to the waterfront. These modest adjustments will support the continued use of the North Beach area as a quiet, community-focused space while improving its overall functionality.

EVENT PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

The focus of these design changes to the Central Park Area is on creating flexible use of the area as an event space of varying size, which providing value for park visitors who use the site informally and organizations who need open space for recreational, educational and sport activities.

The following outlines how the site can be used at various community event sizes:

Plaza Area

According to the 2016 Gyro Park Master Plan, the plaza area was intended to be used for markets, vendors and food truck as the central location for smaller events or as support for larger events. The pavement structure of the plaza was designed for vehicle loading. Depending on the event type, the plaza is suitable for standing events of approximately 750 people or market/vendor events with approximately 300 people.

The plaza has seldom been used for this purpose. Currently, food vendors for events are often located in the senior centre parking lot for events / concerts and market events are hosted elsewhere in the community.

The following recommendations encourage better event use of the plaza:

y Review and potential adjustment of concession lease terms.

y Provide grants, waive of fees, or other provide incentives to encourage use of the site.

y Ongoing discussions to understand the potential barriers to site use (i.e. access or parking issues) to potentially overcome these challenges.

y Review servicing (power, water, sewer) within the plaza area to see if improvement may better support events

y As a last resort, potential selective restriction of event permits in other City outdoor sites if the Town deems the event to be better suited at Gyro Park.

y Due to its size and hardscape, the plaza can feel empty when not in use. The space is quite enjoyable because of the mature tree shading it; however, there is not an activity that strengthens its use throughout the year. Elements such as movable tables and chairs, and outdoor games, such as ping pong tables in chess sports, may bring vitality to the space. Some coordination with the vendor may be beneficial since they could potentially rent paddles and balls for a nominal cost, with the vendor receiving that small profit. Otherwise, a small shed that is periodically stocked by the town may be needed.

Small Event Lawn

The small event lawn is designed for small-medium sized events utilizing the bandshell stage or requiring proximity to the plaza area and concession building. As outlined earlier in this report, the bandshell has been relocated slightly west toward the parking lot and angled southeast, rather than directly south as in its current configuration. This adjustment creates a larger open lawn area to accommodate event audiences while optimizing views of the bandshell. The additional open space has been made possible by the removal of the lawn bowling facility.

This new configuration also allows the bandshell to be visible to visitors using the new multipurpose shelter structure located just east of the existing concession building. Based on the available open space, the area is estimated to accommodate concert-style events with a maximum capacity of approximately 1500 people. However, this is a rough estimate and will vary depending on the nature of the event.

The following recommendations should be considered for design of the small event lawn:

y Design the walkway between the western parking lot and bandshell with a paving structure capable of supporting vehicle loading for service vehicles.

y Provide event servicing infrastructure, such as power outlets and potentially water connections, near the bandshell and western parking lot to meet event requirements.

y Ensure the bandshell is designed to include power, lighting, and AV support to accommodate a variety of event needs.

y Incorporate a small storage room within the bandshell structure to house equipment and other staging items typically required for events.

Large Event Lawn

The large event lawn spans the entire oval, accommodating large or multi-activity events. This space is designed to accommodate large concerts, supported by a temporary stage set up at the northern tip of the oval. The permanent bandshell would likely not be utilized for events of this size but could serve as a secondary activity node.

The large lawn area, located north of the small event lawn, has an estimated capacity of approximately 4,000 people, depending on the type and layout of the event. Servicing access for the temporary stage location and large lawn would be facilitated via the western leg of the oval pathway. It is assumed that event staging and accessible parking would require full use of the western parking lot.

To support an event of this scale, secondary transportation options, such as a shuttle bus, would be essential. A shuttle bus drop-off area west of the plaza would provide a convenient and effective location. Vendors and other support facilities would be set up in the plaza area, while portable toilets could be placed in the western parking lot (just west of the existing washroom building) or along the edges of the plaza.

The following recommendations should be considered for design of the large event lawn:

y At a minimum, the western leg of the oval walkway should be designed for vehicle loading. However, designing the entire oval walkway to support vehicle loading would provide the most flexibility for event setups while minimizing damage to lawn areas.

y Install an event servicing node with power at the northern tip of the oval to support temporary stage and event needs.

y When designing tree placements around the oval walkway, ensure sufficient space is available for equipment required to set up a temporary stage.

y If this area is frequently used for large events, consider installing a concrete or asphalt pad at the northern tip of the oval to accommodate stage setups and prevent lawn damage.

APPENDICES

APPENDIX A ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL NEW AMENITIES

The Town frequently receives requests for additional parks amenities and facilities. Of these amenity requests, four are specifically noteworthy: a bike park, additional pickleball courts, additional beach volleyball courts, and a disc golf course.

The following provides an assessment of these potential facility improvements in context of the comparable communities analysis and similar facilities located within a reasonable driving distance from Osoyoos. A recommendation has been provided on whether they would provide an appropriate recreational return on investment for the community.

Potential New Bike Park (BMX and or Pump Track)

Formerly, there used to be a BMX park located at the West Bench Complex. However, it was removed when the dog park was constructed. Since that time, the intent has been to find an alternate location for some type of bike park, whether a BMX park or a pump track.

Bike parks are common amenities in many communities across North America. However, as apparent in the comparative communities analysis,

smaller communities with older demographics may not have them. Some of the decision-making around building a bike park will focus on whether there is an established user group to support it.

There is an established local biking group, Osoyoos Bike Club+, who have continued to support the future rebuilding of the bike park. A small pump track would provide a local facility that is accessible enough for newer riders who may eventually take on the greater trail network in Osoyoos and beyond. These riders may eventually become members of the Osoyoos Bike Club, which would foster relationships between residents and support stewardship of bike trail as per the mandate of the organization. Beyond residents, the pump track will be attractive to visitors who bring their bikes with them as they travel through Okanagan area and campgrounds.

One of the benefits of bike parks is that they attract a wide demographic from children to teen to adults. They also can reduce conflicts between bikers and skateboards that often struggle to share the limited amount of space. Pairing the bike park with other community destination-level amenities, such as the spray park and skatepark, ensure that they are wellused and provide different activity options for family members.

LOCATIONS CONSIDERED

Concept options were developed for a small bike pump track at Jack Shaw Park and in the Town-owned residential property adjacent to the skate park. The following outlines the two concept options and their pros / cons:

Jack Shaw

y Provides an additional activity to the park that overlaps with the family demographic that already uses the spray park.

y It is close to Legion Beach with also attracts residents and tourists.

y It is close to nearby schools and is connected to future bike routes.

y A limited amount of parking is available.

y Footprint is very tight and close to the pathway tunnel wall. There is a chance that this location may be too small or have too many constraints to make it feasible.

y Pump track location is an existing lawn space that can be easily repurposed.

Adjacent to Skatepark

y Provides an additional activity near the skatepark areas and overlaps with the youth and young adult demographic already using the skate park. It may also increase the family demographic by providing a secondary all-age activity near the skatepark.

y The area closest to the road could be developed as a small pocket park to provide shade and amenities for skatepark and pump track users. This may encourage people to use the space and have “eyes” on space and improve existing skatepark aesthetics.

y A limited amount of parking is available on-street and there is a large amount of parking available at the adjacent arena.

y Footprint is a bit larger and more flexible than at Jack Shaw Park.

y Adjacent residents may be concerned about noise or new activities adjacent to their properties. Some of this concern can be mitigated through fencing and landscape screening.

y The Town will no longer be able to use the existing house on the property for staff housing and there are costs associated with removing existing structures to build the pump track.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

The following is recommended:

y Though each location provides different pros/ cons, the site adjacent to the skatepark is the preferred location since it will provide a significant improvement to the skatepark as well as providing a just providing a new activity.

y Ultimately, this decision will need to be made in conjunction with the Town’s plans for staff housing. Ideally, staff housing, if required, would use an alternate location that is not designated as recreation lands. The Town is currently undertaking building assessment of Town property and depending on the results, alternative options for staff housing may become available.

y Work with the Osoyoos Bike Club+ to see if partnership opportunities are available to support funding, grants and operations of the facility.

y When the design and construction project is initiated, work with design consultants to determine the capital cost and operational implications of different pump track materials (gravel, concrete, asphalt).

Potential Pickleball Court Expansion

The pickleball community is thriving in Osoyoos and the local Desert Pickleball Club community has requested additional courts. Pickleball, though it can be played at almost any age, tends to attract an older demographic, which is inline with Osoyoos’ population.

The original four courts were constructed in 2018 by reconfiguring a basketball court adjacent to the tennis courts at the West Bench Complex. In addition to the outdoor pickleball court, the pickleball association has scheduled times for indoor pickleball at Sonora Community Centre and Desert Park. According to the Comparable Communities analysis, Osoyoos is already well-provisioned for pickleball though it is possible that pickleball could possibly be more popular in Osoyoos than elsewhere.

Currently, three of the four courts are reserved for Club use only on Monday to Friday from 7am to 4pm. Members have access to reservable timeslots using an online booking system. The general public use the fourth court on a first-come-first serve basis and can also use the other three courts outside of Club hours. Reserved times are booked as 60-minute play sessions and membership fees are payable to the club (the Town does not receive any payments for these courts). The total annual cost for the required memberships are currently $62.50 ($50 Pickleball Club, $10 Pickleball Canada and $2.50 Pickleball BC) per

person annually. The Club was established in 2015 and according to a 2022 article, the Desert Pickleball Club has approximately 140 members (https://www. timeschronicle.ca/in-a-pickle-over-court-fees/).

Current membership numbers are unknown, but for the basis of comparison with other communities, we have assumed that Pickleball membership has increased by 8% per annum as per the provincial growth rates noted by the BC Pickleball Association, which would estimate Desert Pickleball Club’s 2024 membership at around 160 members.

There is no straightforward metric to determining the max capacity of pickleball courts. However, recently the City of Penticton reached maximum capacity of their six pickleball courts resulting in a membership cap that was started in 2023. The cap will be raised in 2025, once two more courts are added. The following table provides a comparison of Osoyoos’ current situation versus using Penticton’s experience as an indication of maximum court capacity:

As it currently stands, Osoyoos’ courts provide more weekly court hours per membership and per capita compared to Penticton. However, where Penticton dedicated 53% of its court hours to Club-Only use, Osoyoos only dedicated 34% of court hours to ClubOnly use. Though further discussion with the Club may be needed, it appears that allocation of additional hours to the club may help alleviate some of the congestion that they experience. The number of courts is anticipated to be sufficient for current membership numbers and Osoyoos’s population, and this number of courts is sufficient to support some additional growth.

Because this supplemental update has an outlook to 2045, the data reviewed has been extrapolated to determine if additional courts may be needed in the future. Because pickleball is a growing sport it is difficult to determine the actual growth rate of membership in Osoyoos. Currently the Desert Pickleball Club membership equates to approximately 2.8% of Osoyoos’s population (note that members

CURRENT NUMBERS

may actually reside outside of Osoyoos and not all pickleball players are Club members). This is very similar to the proportion of the Canadian population (2.6%) who play pickleball (https://pickleballcanada. org/january-2022-survey-national-release/). Though Pickleball BC has indicated that pickleball is growing at approximately 8% per annum, it is anticipated that this growth rate is not a realistic projection for Osoyoos given its relatively low population growth (https:// www.pickleballbc.ca/uploads/1/4/2/5/142597665/ pbc_court_guidelines__r1[1]_sept_30_2023.pdf). For example, if membership grew by 8% per annum, in 2045, 10% Osoyoos’ projected population would be pickleball players. This is highly unlikely given that the current wave of growth the pickleball is experience is among the ages of 18-34, which is not Osoyoos’ main demographic.

Instead, we have provided two more modest membership growth rate projections. The first projection uses a 2% membership growth, which matches the projected population growth rate of Osoyoos. The second projection uses a more aggressive membership growth rate of 4% per annum.

At the 2% growth rate, the Desert Pickleball Club would still have slightly better access to pickleball than those members in Penticton but would likely be experiencing court congestion. An addition of two pickleball courts constructed close to 2045 would be sufficient to meet the demand and have some room for additional usership growth.

At a 4% growth rate the Desert Pickleball Club would exceed the capacity of the existing four pickleball courts. Two courts constructed closer to 2035 and an additional two courts closer to 2045 would be sufficient to meet needs and provide room for usership growth.

It is important to note, that this analysis is only for the outdoor courts and does not include indoor court hours which also increases the number of court hours available to members. These have not been including in the analysis since indoor facilities are not a part of the Parks and Trails Master Plan.

Because of the high initial cost of building new courts as well as ongoing maintenance, it is important to ensure investment into this one user group does not impact the Town’s ability to support other recreational activities in the community. Currently, there is a lack of concrete data to understand if the current pickleball usership context. The only way to assess this is through a review of bookings and observational data. The Town may be able to request bookings data from the Club; however, it is important to note that this may not indicate actual use if members book the courts but do not actually use them. Instead, a passive observation system, such as a timelapse “game” camera, could provide a clear record of court use. This observation system should be left in place for an entire pickleball season. This observation study will help determine whether:

y All the four pickleball courts are being used during and outside of Club hours.

y It is club member or non-club members that need additional court time.

y The tennis courts are under-used and the addition of pickleball lines could support overflow pickleball court users.

y The tennis courts are over-used and should be considered in conjunction with future pickleball development.

y The courts are abandoned during less-than-ideal weather conditions (i.e. mid-day heat) to see if other mitigation measures (i.e. shade cover) may provide a most cost-effective solution to increase playable hours.

Furthermore, the balance between Club use and general public use should be carefully considered to ensure that the Town’s resources are not unfairly allocated to one membership organization compared to other membership organizations in the community.

LOCATIONS CONSIDERED

As part of this Supplemental Update, concept options were developed for two locations for the courts: West Bench Complex and Desert Park. The following outlines the two concept options and their pros / cons:

West Bench Complex

The plan provides a “fit study” for additional courts on the north side of the tennis courts. With the amount of space available, two or three courts could be constructed.

The plan provides space for a drainage swale between the dog park and the existing courts. An actual drainage plan would need to be developed to protect the courts.

A trail is provided from the courts to the north parking area. The existing south parking area is unlikely to support additional courts and players will need to use the north parking area for overflow parking.

Desert Park

This plan shows pickleball courts along with a new lawn bowling facility and expanded multi-use building at Desert Park. This plan was intended to show Desert Parks as a redesigned as a potential future multi-use park site.

The location of the courts was shown on the plan to illustrate the idea of the new multi-use park site rather than showing an actual recommended location of pickleball courts (noise issue due to being too close to residential area). Since the parkland parcel is large, there is plenty of potential locations available for pickleball courts, away from residential areas, if the site is redeveloped in the future. Actual location of future courts would depend on redevelopment plans for the site.

RECOMMENDATIONS

The following is recommended:

y Currently the courts face east-west and there is evidence of drainage issues on the west side. Correction of these issues would improve player experience and protect the courts from further damage. These improvements should be made prior to court expansion.

y Conduct an observation study to determine the courts’ utilization and if improvements, such as additional shade cover or increasing number of reservable hours, may maximize court use. Continue to conduct observation studies at 5 year intervals.

y When the Club membership reaches 250 members or use of courts is fully maximized, consider building an additional 2 courts (totaling 6 courts).

y When the Club reaches 450 members or use of courts is fully maximized, consider building an additional 2 courts (totaling 8 courts).

y In the interim, consider increasing the number of Club-Only reservable court hours by 40-50 hours, including some weekend and evening hours, if their reserved timeslots are being well-used.

y Work with Club to set expectations and timing for fundraising and grant applications to ensure that they are aligned with when the Town intends to improve or expand the courts.

y The location of the pickleball courts may ultimately be dependent on whether Desert Park is planned for redevelopment prior to needing additional courts. If Desert Park’s racetrack leaves and the site is holistically redeveloped as a multi-use park site, there would be a large amount of space available for a new pickleball facility. These courts could be provided with ample parking, better support amenities and other complementary activities. Because this is not likely to occur within the lifespan of this master plan, it is recommended that two or three new courts could developed at the West Bench Complex. However, it is not recommended that other activities (i.e. dog park or baseball) be removed to accommodate these future new courts.

Potential Beach Volleyball Court Expansion

The Town has received requests from the Osoyoos Beach Volleyball Club for additional beach volleyball courts at Gyro Park. Currently there are three courts on the Gyro Park beach, two with poles and temporary nets and one with poles and permanent nets. Relatively recently, two temporary beach volleyball courts have been installed in the footprint of the old Museum. Teams also set up temporary courts in lawn spaces.

The Osoyoos Beach Volleyball Club was established in 2003 and has grown to 36 teams. Current membership numbers and fees are unknown.

The Club’s beach volleyball teams only play on one evening of the week. The beach volleyball season is eleven weeks in June to August. The Club also hosts annual tournaments.

An active beach volleyball club of this size is unusual for a small town like Osoyoos especially given its older demographic. For this reason, the comparative communities analysis provides very limited guidance for the ideal number of beach volleyball courts. It would be very unusual for any outdoor sport to expand their number of playing areas prior to maximizing the number of hours of use on each field or court. Though the Club may prefer to have all teams play during a single two to three hours timeslot, it does not make a lot of fiscal sense to build, maintain and operate additional new courts when they remain empty for most of the week.

The beach courts at Gyro Park do have the ability to be used for non-volleyball activities. However, courts constructed elsewhere in Gyro Park (i.e. in lawn areas) are unlikely to be used for non-volleyball activities. Though casual beach visitor may play beach volleyball if they bring their own ball, the amount of this activity could be accommodated by one or two courts.

LOCATIONS CONSIDERED

As part of Gyro Park master planning, three concept plans were developed. These plans proposed multiple options for beach volleyball courts in Gyro Park. See Appendix C for the Gyro Park concept plans.

Recommendations

The following is recommended:

y Given the size of the Club and potential for additional growth, it is recommended that the Club adjust their playing schedule to more than one day of the week.

y A modest expansion of beach volleyball courts within the central beach area may be possible at Gyro Park if the beach area is expanded into the small event lawn.

y Addition of volleyball courts north of the large event lawn.

y The existing temporary beach volleyball courts in the old museum footprint can remain until Gyro Park is further developed.

Potential New Disc Golf Course

In 2022, the Town received a proposal from an individual who was interested in expanding disc golf into Osoyoos. The proposal included a nine-hole layout plan for a proposed course located north of the West Bench Complex between the park site and the golf course.

Osoyoos does not have a disc golf community group. The most prominent association in the Okanagan region is the Penticton Disc Golf Association. They have created similar proposals for other municipalities in the region, including recent council proposals for Armstrong and Summerland.

In general, disc golf is a low-barrier activity accessible to most ages, abilities and income levels. It provides mental and physical health benefits, similar to other outdoor activities. The cost to build these facilities are relatively low compared to some activities (i.e. courts, fields and playgrounds). However, the cost is highly dependent on where they are located (i.e. remote or steep locations), the support amenities (i.e. washrooms, parking) and existing operations and maintenance of existing site (i.e. a maintained park vs a new area).

LOCATIONS CONSIDERED

Osoyoos’s does not have an existing developed park site that could be purposed for disc golf. Instead, the proposal uses the sloped scrubby-vegetation area just north of West Bench Complex. This area has a network of existing low-key trails that are used by golfers moving between golf holes and the general public walking and cycling. The course will require adjustments to the fencing in the dog park area.

RECOMMENDATIONS

At this time, the creation of a new disc golf course is not recommended for the following reasons:

y Disc Golf course locations were reviewed to understand what opportunities were available in the region for residents. There are nine disc golf courses located within a one-hour drive of Osoyoos. Though local disc golfers may want a nearby course to play

more often, there is no shortage of opportunities to play in the region. The following table outlines the opportunities available to Osoyoos disc golfers:

y The layout of the proposed disc golf course has several holes that cross existing trails, which are frequently used by golfers and the general public. This poses safety concerns and conflicts for existing user groups.

y The course requires the realignment of the dog park fence, which will reduce the size of the already relatively small dog park. Additionally, the close proximity of the disc golf course to the dog park may lead to conflicts with existing dog park users due to increased excitement or agitation among dogs.

y Parking is limited at the West Bench Complex, since the existing lots are used by hikers, baseball, dog park and tennis/pickleball court users.

y The course is very close to the existing golf course and out-of-bound golf balls could pose hazards to disc golf players.

y The Town would need to be involved in the operations and maintenance of this recreational amenity. Though this is a low-key activity, there still is ongoing maintenance and monitoring required. In the Summerland proposal, the Penticton Disc Golf Association has stated that they have entered into a Licence to Use Agreement with the City of Penticton

that allows the club to use and maintain the course on public land. There is no local Osoyoos disc golf club that could regularly take this work on. It seems unreasonable for the Penticton Disc Golf Association can capacity to operate this course, since they currently operate two course in Penticton and have recently (August 2024) stated that they would take on maintenance and construction of the proposed 18-hole course in Summerland if it goes ahead.

APPENDIX B

ENGAGEMENT SUMMARY

Project Overview

As part of the development of the Osoyoos Parks Master Plan, the project team engaged with community members, user groups, and the broader public through an open house, targeted meetings and an online survey process.

The purpose of this engagement was to:

y Understand how parks and recreation spaces are currently used

y Identify community priorities for future investment

y Gather feedback on potential design concepts, particularly for Gyro Park and other key park spaces

High-level Feedback Summary

The following is a summary of high-level themes identified through the analysis of the public feedback gathered from respondents at the open house and online survey.

Gyro Park is a Highly Valued Community Space

Gyro Park is widely recognized as a central and valued community asset. Residents emphasized:

y Its role as a gathering place for events, recreation, and tourism

y Its proximity to downtown and accessibility

y Its importance as a multi-generational space

At the same time, feedback highlighted differing perspectives on how the park should evolve:

y Some residents support maintaining existing uses and facilities due to familiarity and convenience

y Others see an opportunity to reimagine Gyro Park as a flexible, open space focused on broader community use and tourism

Many participants expressed the importance of ensuring any future development enhances the park’s role as a signature waterfront destination.

Future of Built Facilities in Parks

A key discussion point was the role of buildings, particularly the Seniors Centre and Lawn Bowling facility within Gyro Park.

What we heard:

y Many residents value the Seniors Centre’s central

location, accessibility, and long-standing presence in the community

y Others expressed that Gyro Park’s waterfront location is better suited for broader community or visitororiented uses, rather than facilities serving a specific group

y There were suggestions to consider whether Gyro Park should include buildings at all, or instead focus on open space and outdoor activity

From stakeholder meetings:

y Seniors groups emphasized the importance of staying in a central, walkable location with visibility and accessibility

y Concerns were raised about relocating to less central areas such as Desert Park due to mobility challenges and lack of transit

Key takeaway:

There is no single consensus—rather, a balance is needed between:

y Maintaining valued community services

y Optimizing the use of limited prime park space

Increasing Demand for Diverse Recreation Opportunities

Across all engagement activities, there was strong

interest in expanding recreation opportunities, especially those that:

y Serve a broader range of ages and abilities

y Encourage social interaction and community gathering

y Support tourism and seasonal activity

Key inputs from user groups:

Pickleball

y Rapid growth, with membership approaching 200 and courts at capacity during peak times

y Need for additional courts and flexible space

y Interest in tournament play and expanded programming

Beach Volleyball

y Long-standing community league with growing demand

y Need for permanent courts and improved facilities

y Desire to expand programming (including youth opportunities) and event capacity

Lawn Bowling

y Small but active membership (~40 members) with

regional programming and events

y Desire for improved facilities, including clubhouse and storage

Key takeaway:

There is strong support for investing in recreation infrastructure, but also a need to consider:

y Level of use and participation

y Ability to share or co-locate facilities

y Long-term sustainability

Accessibility, Parking, and Location Matter

Accessibility was a consistent theme across all engagement:

y Central locations such as Gyro Park are valued for walkability and proximity to amenities

y Participants noted limited parking and accessibility challenges at existing facilities

y Lack of transit options makes location decisions particularly important for some user groups

There were mixed views on alternative locations:

y Some saw opportunities to develop multi-use hubs at larger sites (e.g., Desert Park)

y Others expressed concerns about distance, visibility, and accessibility

Interest in Multi-Use and Flexible Spaces

Many participants supported the idea of:

y Multi-purpose facilities serving multiple groups

y Flexible outdoor spaces that can accommodate different activities over time

y Shared infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce duplication

This reflects a broader desire to:

y Maximize the value of public investment

y Create spaces that can evolve with community needs

Financial Responsibility and Long-Term Planning

A consistent message was the need to balance improvements with affordability:

y Some participants expressed concern about costs, taxes, and new spending

y There is recognition that existing facilities are aging and may require significant investment or replacement

From stakeholder discussions:

y Many buildings are approaching end-of-life and lack funding for replacement or major upgrades

y There is interest in more sustainable approaches, including:

y Consolidating facilities

y Planning for lifecycle costs

y Leveraging partnerships and grant funding

Desire for Incremental Improvements

While long-term planning is important, participants also emphasized the value of:

y Short-term improvements that deliver visible benefits

y Early wins such as:

y Enhancements to gathering spaces

y Improvements to event infrastructure (e.g., performance areas)

y Upgrades to seating, shade, and amenities

These types of improvements help build momentum and maintain community support.

Overall Summary

The engagement process highlighted a community that:

y Deeply values its parks and recreational spaces

y Is experiencing growing demand for diverse activities

y Is navigating competing priorities for limited space and resources

Key tensions identified include:

y Central location vs. expansion opportunities elsewhere

y Specialized facilities vs. flexible public space

y Short-term needs vs. long-term planning

Moving forward, the Parks Master Plan will seek to:

y Balance these priorities

y Provide clear direction for future investments

y Support a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable park system for Osoyoos

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN PLANS

GYRO PARK MASTER PLAN

Phase 1: Concept Plan With Seniors Centre

GYRO PARK MASTER PLAN

Phase 2: Concept Plan Without Seniors Centre

GYRO PARK MASTER PLAN

PARK EVENT PLAN

KINSMEN PARK AND WEST BENCH COMPLEX

Option 2: Alternate Sites for Lawn Bowling and Pickleball

BIKE PUMP TRACK OPTIONS

OFF-LEASH AREA OPTIONS

APPENDIX D

PROJECT COSTS AND IMPLEMENTATION