Diamond Schmitt leads design team redeveloping Parkinson Recreation Centre in Kelowna

For more information, please contact:
Andrea Chin, Communications Director
Email: [email protected]

Jarle Lovlin, Principal
Email: [email protected]

March 26, 2025

Kelowna, BC – The redevelopment of the Parkinson Recreation Centre in Kelowna is part of the City’s efforts to recreate recreation through its Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative. Reflecting the needs of Kelowna residents, and the greater Okanagan region, the design of the new recreation facility and campus is being carried out through an Integrated Project Delivery process, with Diamond Schmitt leading the architectural design team with Stantec Architecture, Bird Construction, and the City of Kelowna as partners.

Design plans for the redeveloped Parkinson Recreation Centre will elevate programming, support health and wellness, enable rehabilitation, and champion local athletes. The project is accompanied by a park, rich in public amenities and gathering spaces.

“Major milestones have been reached as part of the Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative, specific to the Redevelopment of Parkinson Recreation Centre with initial plans agreed upon by all partners and a Form and Character Development Permit being submitted,” said Derek Edstrom, Divisional Director, Partnerships and Investments. “These milestones bring residents closer to a vibrant, legacy facility and park, sparking active, creative opportunities that enhance quality of life for the entire community.”

The redevelopment of Parkinson Recreation Centre has been a significant priority for the City of Kelowna for over a decade. When complete the facility will have 5 times more athletic space, 2.5 times more aquatic space, and 3 times as many programs. Amenities will include a 25 metre 10 lane pool, leisure pool, hot tub, cold plunge, steam room, sauna, three full-sized gyms, fitness centre, a running/walking track, fitness studios, multi-purpose rooms, food services and the ORL express library, as well as a dedicated childcare space. A 19.4-hectare park will include six sports fields, 24 pickleball courts, connections to the Apple Bowl Stadium, Mill Creek park space, and access to the Okanagan Rail Trail.

Read the full press release here.