Summerland is buzzing with construction activity, according to the latest building permit numbers.
This January, the municipality issued 19 building permits, totaling a remarkable $6,763,650 in construction value. This is the highest amount for January in the last five years and significantly more than previous years. In January 2024, only 10 permits were issued with a value of $1.92 million, and in January 2023, there were 11 permits worth $1,208,058.
“We’re definitely off to a good start in January,” said Brad Dollevoet, director of development services.
The biggest permit this month was for $4.5 million, aimed at renovating Summerland Middle School into an elementary school. Also, two permits were granted for single-family homes, worth a total of $1.5 million. Additionally, a demolition permit was issued for the Summerland United Church, making way for a new five-storey subsidized housing project.
This new housing project, led by Turning Point Collaborative, will feature 60 residential units. Of these, 30 percent will be available at market rental rates, while the rest will be income-based supportive housing. A covenant will be registered to ensure these homes remain supportive and do not turn into emergency shelters.
The building permit for this housing initiative is expected to be approved in February, and Dollevoet anticipates that February’s figures will show even more building activity.
Alongside these permits, several planning applications have also come in. One proposal is for the Okanagan Food and Innovation Hub at 15815 Hwy. 97, which will go to a public hearing on March 4. Another rezoning request has been submitted for 17013 Sanborn Ave.
In total, Summerland issued 194 building permits in 2024, with a combined construction value of $35,189,132. This surge in building activity not only marks a positive trend for the community but also highlights the ongoing growth and development in the area.
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