transportation & mobility

A well-functioning transportation system isn't just a convenience—it's the backbone of daily life, ensuring the smooth flow of people and goods throughout the city. It is a catalyst for economic growth; connects residents to opportunities, resources, and each other; and is a steward of environmental sustainability.

Socially, the benefits of a well-connected city are profound. Accessibility to employment centres increases job opportunities, particularly for low-income communities reliant on public transportation. It promotes inclusivity by breaking down barriers to mobility, reduces social isolation among vulnerable populations including seniors and people with disabilities, and provides residents with access to essential services and social activities.

Environmentally, a robust transportation system plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. By providing and promoting viable alternatives to private car usage, cities can significantly decrease their carbon footprint and improve air quality, while at the same time reducing road congestion— something that is top of mind for Kelowna residents and Council, considering how quickly our community is growing.

Kelowna residents make approximately 85 per cent of their trips by vehicle, either as a driver or a passenger. The remaining 15 per cent of trips are made by other means like biking, walking, and public transit. To help keep Kelowna moving, now and into the future, the City’s 2040 Transportation Master Plan includes over 100 recommended actions that will help us maintain and renew our existing infrastructure, create fast and reliable transit, improve road connections, develop comfortable bicycle routes, create walkable neighbourhoods, and help people use and enjoy new ways of getting around.

In 2023, the City invested nearly $70 million in transportation infrastructure, including roads, transit, and active transportation. In addition, we collaborated with BC Transit for a successful application valued at $29 million in funding to improve, grow and electrify regional transit service. We began design work on extension projects for Commonwealth Road, Frost Road, and Clement Avenue to Highway 33. We also partnered with the Province on both the Highway 97 and the Goods Movement studies, in collaboration with the Chamber, and are collaborating with UBCO on various research initiatives including improving the connectivity of the university, airport and downtown Kelowna, via the Okanagan Rail Trail corridor.

The 2024 budget has earmarked $33 million in transportation infrastructure projects. In addition, staff are working to accelerate an approximately $60 million investment to deal with capacity and congestion on our important network roads.

Working alongside the 2040 Official Community Plan, these transportation investments, and those noted below, are setting the direction for a vibrant city offering diverse transportation options that conveniently connect people and places, and help to deliver on our goals of a more sustainable, equitable future.

Read the 2023 Annual Report to learn more.