Greater Vernon Scores Community Rec Grants Over half a million dollars into local parks and rec

105.7 SUN FM:
Vernon Monashee MLA, Eric Foster brought cheques Tuesday for the City of Vernon and Regional District of North Okanagan totalling $546,674 from the Ministry of Community, Sport, and Cultural Development's Community Recreation Program. They are: The Regional District of North Okanagan is receiving $400,000 to improve accessibility to two beaches, Paddlewheel Beach Park and Kin Beach Park, for people with mobility challenges by upgrading the washroom buildings. This project scope will include:  Upgrade 400 square foot washroom building at Paddlewheel Beach Park, including: Addition to building envelope of 400 square foot; Removal and reconstruction of the washroom partitions, accessories and vanities; Addition of 2 sinks, 2 urinals, 3 male toilets (1 accessible), 5 female toilets (1 accessible); Removal and replacement of the ceramic tile; Interior and exterior painting and carpentry, including doors and frames;   Mechanical and electrical work for fixtures, lighting and heating; and, New hot water tank. 
Upgrade 700 square foot washroom building at Kin Beach Park, including: Removal and reconstruction of the washroom partitions, accessories and vanities; Addition of 2 sinks, 2 urinals, 1 male toilets (1 accessible), 2 female toilets (1 accessible); Removal and replacement of the ceramic tile (to IH standard);  Interior and exterior painting and carpentry, including doors and frames; and, Mechanical and electrical work for fixtures, lighting and heating.
The Regional District of North Okanagan is receiving $72,274 to deliver enhancements to the Greater Vernon Recreation Complex to provide a source of physical activity in the community, especially in the winter. The project scope will include: expansion of an existing fitness centre within the complex; construction of playground; and purchase new chair lift for indoor pool.
The City of Vernon is receiving $74,400 to renovate the existing Lakers Clubhouse which will convert the golf course clubhouse to a community recreation centre. The project scope will include the following: Approximately 250 square metres of new resilient floor; Approximately 20 square metres of acoustic paneling/soundproofing; New outdoor playground; Bike rack
Greater Vernon currently has no beaches with accessible washroom facilities.  This project will upgrade the washrooms at two beaches, Paddlewheel Beach Park and Kin Beach Park, making the beaches accessible to persons with mobility challenges.

Foster says, "This represents a huge investment in the North Okanagan. Not just our infrastructure and recreational opportunities, but by providing more and enhanced opportunities to stay active and lead healthy lifestyles, it's also an investment in our people. " Mayor of Vernon Rob Sawatzky. says "Whether the Lakers Clubhouse or the Kin Beach and Paddlewheel Beach Washrooms, we are very grateful for the expeditious approval of funding and these are very valuable amenities for the Greater Vernon Community."