DeHart Park open for play and leisure
This morning, DeHart Park was officially opened to the public. The nine-acre community park, located at 687 DeHart Road, originated as a concept in 2010. This concept advanced to a project in 2022 through as a result of the Parks Development Cost Charge program. The design was refined with renewed public consultation to ensure that the park features met community needs. Construction started last spring, and the City has now opened the park in time for the summer season.
“DeHart Park was designed with the community in mind and reflects what residents told us they wanted in a neighbourhood park. By prioritizing parks and public spaces, and accelerating the delivery of key infrastructure, we’re able to bring important projects like this to life,” said Mayor Tom Dyas. “With something for all ages and abilities—from play areas and sports courts to walking paths and community gardens—this park is a place where friends can gather, residents can enjoy the outdoors, and families can create lasting memories.”
The park preserved natural spaces like existing trees and added a pollinator and dryland meadow. Amenities include courts for pickleball and basketball, a multi-use field, outdoor fitness equipment, a playground, a children's water play area, a fenced-off dog space, games area, skate feature, pump track, walking loop, picnic tables, seating areas, and a relocated community garden. Infrastructure improvements support vehicle, transit, cycling, and pedestrian access.
Construction on park washrooms is scheduled to begin this summer, while the pump track needs fencing, irrigation, and landscaping before opening. Residents are kindly asked to respect newly seeded areas as they require time to establish, the public's support in allowing these growing areas to flourish is appreciated.
"The opening of DeHart Park marks a significant public amenity milestone for the Lower Mission neighbourhood. This project, which began as a concept over ten years ago, has evolved through community engagement and thoughtful design,” said Mac Logan, General Manager of Infrastructure “It is a shining example of how we can create spaces that enhance the quality of life for our residents through city infrastructure projects."
The City is working on 23 park projects this year to build community and recreation spaces for play and exercise. These investments in parks and sports fields have not only improved recreational opportunities but also contributed to community well-being, health, and environmental sustainability. Residents continue to express how parks contribute to overall health and well-being, providing spaces for all ages to play, get moving, and connect with each other.
DeHart Park offers space for passive recreation and leisure activities like socializing, picnicking, playing, and relaxing, as well as active spaces. The park is a vibrant focal point in the Lower Mission neighbourhood that will serve diverse age groups and abilities through a variety of park features and amenities.
Explore over 200 parks and green spaces in Kelowna at kelowna.ca/parks .
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