As of today (May 15) you can enjoy a beer, cider, or glass of wine at eight parks across the city.
After a successful pilot last year, involving three parks, the city has expanded the program to begin earlier in the season and include more parks.
Waterfront (including Tugboat Bay), Boyce-Gyro, Kinsmen Beach, Cedar Creek, Rotary Beach, Sarsons Beach, Strathcona Beach, and Sutherland Bay are part of the new program which will run until Sep. 15.
“To help animate public spaces and expand equitable access to outdoor gathering within Kelowna, residents, and visitors can responsibly enjoy an alcoholic beverage in one of our beautiful city parks,” explained Melanie Steppuhn, parks and landscape planner.
Not all city councillors were in favour of the program and wanted more warnings or information about the dangers of alcohol.
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There were specific criteria in deciding which parks should be excluded such as those with a history of bylaw incidents, areas within 15 metres of playgrounds, parks with natural areas, and remote parks with few transit options.
Parks typically low on facilities like waste containers and washrooms were also excluded.
Signage will be posted at parks where responsible alcohol consumption is permitted.
More information about the program is available on the City of Kelowna website.
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