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Vernon might be poised for growth, but it remains true to its smalltown vibe.
Great things are coming to Vernon. Construction has begun on phase one of a $121 million Active Living Centre, where a 50-meter pool, a wave pool and water slides, two gyms, fitness rooms, and common spaces will bring residents together. “Phase two extends healthy living outdoors with green space and parkland,” says John Perrott, manager, economic development & partnerships at the City of Vernon. “This will be a tremendous asset for existing residents and families that are new to Vernon.”
A downtown core revitalization project includes a cultural centre, performing arts centre, art gallery and museum that will bring activity, events and excitement to the heart of Vernon. With this and other development on the horizon, the city is working on its official community plan, which will guide positive, sustainable and resilient growth into the future.
“The city is expected to welcome 20,000 new residents over the next 20 to 30 years and is preparing for that with new residential units that include rental, single-family and multi-family compositions,” Perrott says. “We are seeing a lot of positive indicators that the North Okanagan is a great place to grow, invest and expand.”
As Vernon reaches new heights in growth and development, current and in-coming residents still value its warm, smalltown feel. “You can get across town in ten minutes, which is about as long as it takes to get from city hall to a trail or bike park,” Perrott says. “Housing costs are 20-30% less than other parts of the Okanagan.
“Many families are looking north because we offer a good combination of fantastic lifestyle, job opportunities and affordable housing options. This is the trifecta of why people are waking up to Vernon.”
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