The City of Kamloops says work to build a new accessible playground and water park at Albert McGowan Park in Sahali will get underway on Monday, Sept. 23.

The first phase of the project will see the existing playground torn down, with the City warning of some impacts to the adjacent green space and a portion of the parking lot at 2025 Summit Drive.

“Phase one is expected to be complete at the end of November and will feature a new playground with accessible play features, shade structures, and accessible rubber surfacing,” a statement from the City of Kamloops said.

“Playground construction will not impact access to the north field, Hal Rogers Activity Centre, the public washrooms, Gambles Pond, or the baseball diamonds.”

The second phase of the project, which is scheduled to run from March to September next year, will include a replacement of the existing water park at Albert McGowan Park with a new recirculating system as well as new surface and water features.

The existing water park, along with some green space, and a portion of the parking lot will be closed, during this phase of the project.

“The Albert McGowan water park operations and inclusive structures will be similar to those at Riverside Park,” the City statement added. “Phase two will not impact access to the north field, Hal Rogers Activity Centre, the public washrooms, Gambles Pond, or the baseball diamonds.”

“Access to the newly constructed playground will only be available via grass during phase two, as the accessible pathway will not reopen until the entire project is complete in fall 2025.”