Wharton Street Revitalization

Project Background

In 2022, the District of Summerland completed a Downtown Neighbourhood Action Plan (DNAP). The DNAP paves the way for a lively and revitalized downtown area, including actionable items and policy recommendations to guide future revitalization projects.

The Downtown Neighbourhood Action Plan supports Council’s Strategic Priorities of Enhancing Our Quality of Life and Protecting and Enhancing Core Infrastructure and Essential Services.

Council’s Strategic Priorities and the Roads & Water Integrated 20-Year Asset Management Plan highlight the need for infrastructure work, including watermain replacement and electrical upgrades, to ensure the longevity and safety of essential services. This includes:

  • Stormwater improvements to service new density and growth
  • Replacement of aging water lines
  • Relocation of overhead power lines to underground

 

These underground upgrades require significant construction, making it an ideal opportunity to enhance the streetscape as well. By revitalizing public spaces, modernizing streets, and creating a more attractive and functional environment, we maximize the investment and bring added value to the community.

Creating a vibrant and dynamic downtown brings numerous benefits:

  • Economic Growth: A revitalized downtown attracts businesses, creates jobs, and increases property values, strengthening the local economy.
  • Community & Social Well-being: It enhances the quality of life by providing public spaces, cultural activities, and a stronger sense of community identity while also improving public safety.
  • Sustainable Urban Development: By optimizing existing infrastructure, promoting walkability, and integrating green spaces, we foster a more sustainable and livable urban environment.
  • Tourism & Cultural Appeal: A lively downtown draws visitors, supports local arts and entertainment, and reinforces our community’s unique character.

Wharton Street Revitalization

Through the implementation of the DNAP, we're working to create a downtown that is not only a hub of activity, but also a place where people want to live, work and visit. The first major project being implemented is the Wharton Street Revitalization.
View the site plan

Key Elements of the Project

Veterans Memorial Square

Henry Avenue between Main Street and Wharton Street will be closed to create a plaza area. Originally referred to as “Henry Avenue Plaza,” the District of Summerland officially changed the name to “Veterans Memorial Square” in October 2025.

This area will feature:

  • Overhead lighting
  • Bench seating and planting areas
  • An all season public washroom
  • A misting fountain
  • Cafe-style seating
  • A busking stage
Veterans Memorial Square Concept

Memorial Park Plaza

The project will include the creation of the Memorial Park Plaza, which will feature:

  • An upgraded cenotaph area
  • Seating
  • Power receptables
  • Lighting
  • Flag poles
  • A raised crosswalk to connect to Veterans Memorial Square
Memorial Park Plaza Concept

Wharton Street and Victoria Road

Upgrades to Wharton Street and Victoria Road include:

  • Angle parking
  • Relocation of overhead power lines to underground (Armstrong Avenue to Victoria Road)
  • 3 meter wide multi-use pathway
  • Stormwater improvements to service new density and growth
  • Replacement of aging water lines
  • Intersection safety improvements
  • Site furnishings and plantings
  • Two-way vehicle traffic
  • Food truck parking

Kelly Avenue

Kelly Avenue will be converted to allow two-way traffic and a 3 meter multi-use pathway will be installed.