Building community in the heart of Rutland: Activity centre breaks ground

Something exciting is taking shape in the heart of Rutland.

The City of Kelowna has officially broken ground on a new Activity Centre next to Lions Park—a vibrant community hub designed to bring people together, support healthy lifestyles and create more opportunities for recreation, learning and connection close to home.

More than just a new building, the Activity Centre is being envisioned as a gathering place for the community. Shaped by extensive public engagement, the design reflects Rutland’s rich cultural diversity, strong sense of community and growing need for accessible recreation and programming spaces.

“Rutland has a strong, connected community, and this new Activity Centre at Lions Park will give residents a welcoming place to gather, stay active and take part in programs close to home,” says Mayor Tom Dyas. “This investment of more than $20 million supports families, youth and seniors with more inclusive spaces for recreation, learning and community connection—now and into the future.”

Built for community

The new two-storey Activity Centre is part of the City’s Building a Stronger Kelowna program and will be located on a consolidated site adjacent to Lions Park in the Rutland Urban Centre.

• The facility will feature:
• A modern gymnasium
• Flexible multi-purpose rooms
• A teaching kitchen
• A dedicated youth zone
• Community gathering and event spaces
• Programming areas for people of all ages and abilities

Designed to work seamlessly with Lions Park, the centre will encourage indoor and outdoor activities to flow together while preserving the old-growth trees that make the park such a special community space.

Why this matters for Rutland

As Rutland continues to grow, so does the need for places where people can gather, stay active and build relationships.

The new Activity Centre will create a welcoming space where residents of all ages can connect through programs, recreation, cultural events and shared experiences. Whether it's youth hanging out after school, families attending community celebrations, seniors participating in wellness programs or neighbours meeting for a workshop, the centre is designed to support everyday moments that strengthen community bonds.

“This project is about creating a flexible facility that reflects how Rutland is growing and how residents told us they want to use community space,” said Jim Gabriel, Divisional Director, Active Living and Culture. “By connecting with Lions Park and supporting a range of programs and events, the centre is designed to adapt with the neighbourhood for years to come.”

Investing in quality of life

The Activity Centre in Rutland represents an investment in the long-term health and resilience of the community, and is one of three being built as part of the Building a Stronger Kelowna initiative. The other two will be in Glenmore and Mission.

By bringing recreation, wellness and community services closer to where people live, the facility will improve access to programs and activities that support physical, social and emotional well-being. Its flexible design also means it can evolve as community needs change over time.

The centre will complement other investments happening in Rutland, including Lions Park improvements, new housing developments and ongoing revitalization of the town centre, helping create a more complete and connected community

Looking ahead

Once complete, the Activity Centre will serve as a neighbourhood anchor that brings people together year-round. It will be a place that celebrates Rutland's diversity, supports families and youth, and creates new opportunities for connection, learning and belonging.

As Kelowna continues to grow, projects like Building a Stronger Kelowna help ensure every neighbourhood has the spaces needed to thrive—today and for generations to come.

Construction is expected to continue through 2027. Residents can follow project updates at kelowna.ca/buildingstrongerkelowna.