Building for the future: The K.L.O. Bridge replacement

K.L.O. Bridge will be open to traffic in May, marking an important milestone in the City of Kelowna’s efforts to reduce flood risk, and limit potential impacts from future high-water level events.  

The original bridge, built in 1949, had reached the end of its service life and its low elevation made it increasingly vulnerable to high water during heavy rain and spring runoff. By replacing aging infrastructure through planned investment, rather than emergency response, the City is able to protect community safety, reduce disruption and mitigate costs.  

“This bridge is designed to perform better in every way,” said Steven Robertson, Senior Project Manager. “It improves how water moves through Mission Creek, provides a safer crossing for all modes of travel, and delivers a durable piece of infrastructure the community can rely on.”  

Photo: Kevin Van Vliet, Infrastructure Delivery Dept. Manager: Councillor Gord Lovegrove; Nicole Rustad, Chief of Staff to The Honourable Stephen Fuhr ; Mayor Tom Dyas; Councillor Maxine DeHart; and Councillor Luke Stack  gather to celebrate the latest milestone of the K.L.O. Bridge project as it gets ready for traffic later in May.

The new 35‑metre clear‑span bridge is built at a higher elevation to safely accommodate flood flows in Mission Creek. By spanning the creek without in‑stream supports, the design allows water and debris to move through the corridor more freely and improves safety for users of the Mission Creek Greenway underneath the bridge. 

In addition to reducing flood risk, replacing the aging bridge strengthens transportation safety and reliability in Southeast Kelowna. The new bridge is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and enhance safety at the intersection of K.L.O. Road and Spiers Road, while expanding walking and biking connections. 

While the bridge is open to traffic, construction will continue in the surrounding area as the broader K.L.O. Bridge and Roundabout Improvements Project advances. Remaining work includes the roundabout, pathways, and final site restoration, with full completion anticipated by fall 2026. 

The project reflects Kelowna City Council priorities to strengthen climate resilience, improve public safety, and invest in infrastructure that will serve the community well into the future. 

The $23 million project is funded in partnership by the City of Kelowna, the Government of Canada through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund, the Community stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund administered by UBCM, and the Province of British Columbia through the Active Transportation Infrastructure Grants Program. 

Watch this video for a behind-the-scenes look with Brian Beach, Infrastructure Delivery Project Manager, or visit kelowna.ca/klobridge for more info.