Build Kamloops AAP passes, construction of Centre for the Arts to start next year

The City of Kamloops has obtained elector approval of two borrowing bylaws that will fund several Build Kamloops projects.

On Monday, the city announced that it will be moving forward with the funding of the construction of the Kamloops Centre for the Arts, the design and construction of an arena multiplex and the advancement of other recreational facilities including a curling and racquet sport complex, an aquatic centre and an indoor fieldhouse.

The alternative approval process (AAP) began at the end of July and closed on Sept. 13.

A total of 5,802 forms (6.66% of eligible electors) were accepted in opposition to the $140 million loan that will be used to build the Kamloops Centre for the Arts.

Another 4,025 forms (4.62% of eligible electors) sere accepted in opposition to the borrowing of $135 million to design and build the arena multiplex and advance other Build Kamloops recreation projects.

To defeat either loan authorization bylaw, 10% of electors or 8,713 people would have had to voice their opposition on the AAP forms.

City councillors will review the full report on the AAP process on Tuesday.

“Build Kamloops, and the Kamloops Centre for the Arts specifically, has been common ground for all of Council since our inauguration and we’re thrilled to take the next steps of building our community,” said councillor Mike O’Reilly, chair of the Build Kamloops Council Select Committee.

The Kamloops Centre for the Arts has been identified as a high priority for the city for over 20 years, the city said in a news release.

The facility will be built at 393 Seymour Street and is currently moving through the validation and design phases.

Construction is slated to begin at the end of next year.

Meanwhile, the adoption of the arena multiplex and recreation initiatives loan authorization bylaw will mark the beginning of design and construction of the arena multiplex.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 at 2070 Hillside Drive.

The city says residents can visit this link to be informed about future public engagement opportunities.