The purpose of the Kamloops Parks Plan is to prepare a 10-year plan for the city that will guide decisions related to parkland, park development, outdoor recreation, trails, and park management. The previous plan was completed in 2013 and most of its recommendations have been achieved.

The planning process will involve extensive engagement with the community in an effort to ensure that the plan reflects the goals and aspirations of a wide range of residents. Engagement methods will include a survey (online and paper), focus group workshops, partner interviews, and other meetings and communication methods.

Numerous City documents provide context for the Kamloops Parks Plan. The most relevant are KAMPLAN: City of Kamloops Official Community Plan (2018) and Community Climate Action Plan (2021). The Trails Master Plan (2013) strongly interrelates with the Kamloops Parks Plan.

Also weighing into the Kamloops Parks Plan is the recent announcement that the multi-year, multi-phase visionary Build Kamloops program will move forward. Build Kamloops will advance the infrastructure gaps identified in the 2019 Recreation Master Plan, including the Kamloops Centre for the Arts, an arena multiplex, a curling and racquet sports facility, an indoor field facility, a leisure aquatic centre, and a seniors centre or community space in conjunction with one of these. Build Kamloops will re-establish the city’s prominence as Canada’s Tournament Capital, foster our recognition as a premier arts and culture destination, and keep pace with our recreation and leisure needs.

BC Stats estimates our current population to be 110,289. As Canada’s third-fastest growing city, we expect to surpass 120,000 residents by 2035.

A number of trends will be addressed in the Kamloops Parks Plan, including:

• inclusivity and accessibility
• action towards Truth and Reconciliation
• population growth by neighbourhood
• demographic trends
• new activities in parks and outdoor recreation
• safety and security
• livability and sustainability
• active transportation
• opportunities for all age groups
• parkland supply for a rapidly growing city
• economic health
• challenges and opportunities facing the city park network

The City proudly maintains a complex network of first-class parks, trails, and amenities.