Kelowna seeks new partner for Prospera Place
The City of Kelowna will seek a new partner to operate Prospera Place when the current deal with GSL ends in 2029.
Mayor Tom Dyas said the change will lead to much needed improvements and will maximize the life of the now 25 year old facility.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to GSL, the current owner-operator of Prospera Place, for their management of this key community facility for the past 24 years,” Dyas said in a news release. “GSL has been a valuable partner in bringing entertainment, culture, and sports to our city, and we appreciate their contribution to our vibrant downtown.”
Dyas said to ensure a smooth transition, the city has informed GSL that a planning and investment strategy for the facility, with a new partner, will begin shortly.
“The city has made this decision to maximize the life of the facility and ensure that it continues to provide the greatest benefit to our community. This strategy will also allow for much needed improvements that would allow the city to attract major events to our community throughout the year,” the mayor stated.
Prospera Place, which was first called Skyreach Place, opened in 1999, and the 6,886-seat multi-purpose arena helped revitalize Kelowna’s downtown.
While the city is searching for a new partner, it plans to develop a capital improvement plan and funding strategy to expand the economic impact the venue can provide to the community, as well as attract high profile entertainment, major sporting events and to meet the needs of the Kelowna Rockets, the primary tenant, in the short and long-term.
“Prospera Place can continue to be a key contributor to the economic future of our community and the quality of life of our citizens, and we want to make sure that it remains competitive and relevant in the marketplace,” Dyas said.
The city will be hiring a consultant team to develop a strategy for a seamless transition of Prospera Place from GSL Group to the city.
“We are confident that Prospera Place will remain a hub of activity and excitement for our city for many years to come,” said Dyas.