New Kid’s Zone coming to YLW

News release

Renovations to the Kid’s Zone are now underway to revitalize the space and transform it into an active play area for kids of all ages. The new Kid’s Zone will feature a tree-fort inspired play structure with a slide, and a cozy space for reading.

Other features include:

  • Reading nook with books supplied by the Okanagan Regional Library
  • New seating area with Adirondack-style chairs
  • Interactive digital display with artifacts from the region
  • Nature inspired mural

“We know it can be difficult for children to sit on a plane for long periods of time, and we want to give families a space that’s just for children to help channel some of that extra energy before travelling,” said Sam Samaddar, Airport Director. “Through a partnership with the local indigenous community, the new play area will meet the needs of a variety of young travellers while also showcasing the beauty of the Okanagan.”

Renovations are expected to be complete by mid-November. During construction, a temporary play space will be set up at the north end of the Departures Lounge. Toys, games and colouring materials will be available for young travellers to use before boarding their flight.

If you’ve been to YLW lately, you’ll notice several projects are underway to improve the passenger experience.

Other projects include:

Landscaping and retaining wall upgrades

We’ve replaced the exterior retaining wall and landscaping outside the terminal. This new xeriscape garden is ideal for arid and semi-arid climates will conserve water, save money and keep our plants growing in their ideal conditions.

Parking lot construction

An additional 600 new parking spaces will be available in the long-term parking lot for passengers and valet parking by November 2019, ahead of the winter rush. Paving of long-term Parking Lot B is expected to be complete in 2020.

Airfield lighting upgrades

Recently, YLW upgraded all taxiway and apron lights from incandescent to LED, resulting in decreased operating and maintenance costs and a longer lifespan.

Tim Hortons renovations

Renovations to Tim Hortons were completed earlier this week with new flooring, energy-efficient lighting to reduce energy costs, and new seating and queueing areas.

For more information about development at the airport, visit ylw.kelowna.ca/development.