Neighbourhood Street Urbanization: upgrades to weather every storm

Did you know trees can cool a street by up to  32°C and lower the surrounding air temperature by 1–2°C, helping reduce neighbourhood energy costs. What’s more, a single mature tree can absorb 100 litres of water, intercepting up to 65 per cent of stormwater runoff, reducing the risk of flood. Trees also improve neighbourhood air quality and boost property values. That’s the power of green infrastructure and one of the many reasons the City is investing in Neighbourhood Street Urbanization, which includes planting new trees, building sidewalks to ensure a seamless path, constructing active transportation corridors, and improving drainage systems!  

“These projects increase safety, create beautiful outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy and help protect neighbourhoods from flooding” said Candace Pilling, Project Manager. “Increasing the connectivity of neighbourhoods and ensuring streets are  safe and welcoming for all, means people are more likely to walk, bike, roll, and spend time outdoors. That extra time outside  helps build vibrant neighbourhoods for all.”  

2025 and 2026 Neighbourhood Street Urbanization projects are taking place on Stockwell, Glenwood, Morrison, and Martin Avenues, as well as Hartman Road, with a total investment of approximately $14.5 million. 

Picture summer walks where the pavement isn’t scorching hot, or biking along Hartman Road on a dedicated lane that connects you to the YMCA. These aren’t just upgrades, they’re investments in community that increase quality of life for our residents.  

Building Peace of Mind 

Stockwell Avenue’s aging cast-iron watermain, which is prone to costly breaks, has been replaced and new services were connected to each property. Other streets with underground infrastructure upgrades include Glenwood and Morrison. Upgrades like these mean fewer disruptions and costly repairs for homeowners. 

Building Connection 

Hartman Road is getting a new bike lane and sidewalks connecting to the YMCA, making it safer and easier to walk, bike, and roll. Other sidewalk and active transportation corridor projects include: Martin Avenue, Glenwood Avenue, and Morrison Avenue . These new connections make our commutes safer and increase active recreational opportunities for all.  

Building Longevity 

Glenwood Avenue received a new stormwater system, curb and gutter, helping to ensure the drainage system will be ready to handle heavy rains and protect homes from flooding. Other streets getting drainage improvements include: Stockwell Avenue, Morrison Avenue, Martin Avenue, Hartman Road. These projects help ensure neighbourhoods can weather the storm, literally and figuratively. 

Building Community 

Morrison Avenue had tree-lined boulevards and wide sidewalks installed to make the street cooler and a more welcoming place to walk, bike, and spend time outdoors. Other streets adding greenery include: Glenwood Avenue, Martin Avenue, Hartman Road. 

“Neighbourhood Street Urbanization projects are an investment in the future of our community,” adds Pilling. “Ensuring we have greener more safe and connected communities for generations to come.”  

Learn more about these and other infrastructure improvement projects at: kelowna.ca/projects