Community Planning//
RUTLAND Reimagined: A Pathway to a Complete Community
MCRP Studio Project 25' - Developed in collaboration with City of Kelowna, BC, Canada.
Kelowna is transforming Rutland Urban Centre into a complete community where residents can access daily needs within a short walk, bike ride, or transit trip. Guided by the BC Complete Communities Guide, this project identifies practical improvements in transportation, climate resilience, and daily needs to support Rutland’s expected growth of 2,883 new housing units by 2041. Currently, Rutland faces challenges: incomplete sidewalks, limited bike lanes, sparse tree cover, and few gathering spaces. The plan proposes targeted upgrades—safer crosswalks, expanded tree planting, and pop-up plazas—to enhance walkability, reduce heat island effects, and foster community connections. Short-term actions, like sidewalk repairs and temporary public spaces, offer immediate benefits, while long-term strategies ensure sustainable growth. Funding opportunities, such as provincial active transportation grants, will help implement these changes. By addressing gaps in infrastructure, green space, and social hubs, Rutland can evolve into a more livable, inclusive, and resilient neighbourhood. This plan provides a clear roadmap to make that vision a reality.
Out of the 14 proposed strategic recommendations, three are listed below.
Please note that this project has not been publicly released by the City of Kelowna and is intended solely as a confidential report for internal use by the City.
1
School Streets create safer, more vibrant spaces by temporarily restricting traffic near schools during drop-off and pick-up times. This helps promote physical activity and emotional well-being and creates an inclusive environment. This encourages sustainable transportation options and strengthens community bonds through shared space and active participation. This is proposed in front of the South Rutland Elementary School on the Mallach Road.
2
Increasing tree cover will combat the urban heat island effect while enhancing pedestrian safety. Trees create a buffer between sidewalks and traffic lanes, fostering a cooler, greener, and more walkable environment. This recommendation improves street aesthetics, promotes biodiversity, and enhances overall community well-being. Strategic tree planting has been proposed on various streets including the Rutland Road North as depicted below.
3
Neighbourhood plazas situated near transit hubs contribute to vibrant community spaces by enhancing access to public areas. Its is essential to activate spaces with games and amenities like seating, shade, bike racks, and community gardens, creating a welcoming and vibrant environment for all. It contributes to a more lively and inclusive urban experience, ensuring spaces are accessible and welcoming to people of all ages and abilities. One such plaza is proposed on a vacant lot beside the transit exchange on Shepherd Road.
