City acquires Shadow Ridge Golf Club for YLW

The City of Kelowna has acquired a significant property at 3770 Bulman Road, in support of the long-term land use strategy for the Kelowna International Airport (YLW).

The property currently operates as Shadow Ridge Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course. The City will be acquiring all buildings and equipment that support the golf course, as the course will remain fully operational for the foreseeable future.

“Our members can continue to expect the same great experience at Shadow Ridge,” said Dan Weddell,general manager of Shadow Ridge Golf Club. “Membership, rates and amenities will remain unchanged as we transition ownership to the airport.”

To see this recreational opportunity continue for citizens, the City will soon be seeking a third-party course operator for 2017 and onward. The existing operator has agreed to remain in place throughout 2016, to guarantee an easy transition.

This nearly 84-acre property is a key acquisition for YLW, as identified in the airport’s Master Plan 2025. It secures long-term sustainability, as the airport continues to develop.

“The purchase of this property was exceptionally important,” said Sam Samaddar, airport director. “As we’re unable to move the airport, we need to ensure that we have the available land to support the growth of YLW for future generations.”

Funding for the acquisition was provided from the Airport Reserves, with no funding from general taxation.

For additional information on YLW’s long-term plans, visit ylw.kelowna.ca. For information on Shadow Ridge Golf Club and its services, visit shadowridgekelowna.com.

As one of the top 11 busiest airports in Canada, YLW’s total economic impact is 2,730 jobs and $610 million in total economic output to the province of British Columbia. Serving 1.6 million passengers in 2015, YLW offers 66 daily non-stop commercial flights with six airline partners. For more information, visit ylw.kelowna.ca.