Summerland Rodeo Grounds Master Plan

Council endorsed the Summerland Rodeo Grounds Master Plan (2024) as a guiding plan for consideration for future actions and investments on July 23, 2024.

BACKGROUND

The Summerland Rodeo Grounds (18707 Bathville Road) represent 73.76 acres of community parkland. It is a rustic special-purpose park facility with two riding rings, grandstands, animal stalls, a seasonal concession cook shack, seasonal washroom building with showers, a community clubhouse building and a large network of trails throughout open spaces and forest corridors.

Traditionally the facility was developed and utilized for equine training and competition, however since the late 1980’s the Rodeo Grounds has also served as an important host to a diversity of public and private events. The Rodeo Grounds site is often used as a staging area for regional and provincial sporting events (running, biking, long boarding, etc.); has been home to the Summerland Bluegrass festival since for many years; and continues to be regular booking site for private events such as rustic weddings and family reunions.  

The 2018 District of Summerland Parks & Recreation Master Plan Report recommended that the District: “Undertake a master plan for the Rodeo Grounds, exploring community needs and possible uses for the site, servicing requirements and costs and possible operating arrangements.”

A plan for the Rodeo Grounds was last completed in June 2008. The District has engaged a consulting team to lead a process to complete a full assessment of the property, conduct research, and consult with the community and user groups on the recommended directions for the future of the property. The intent of this consultation is to reengage the community in the planning process before moving forward in creating a master plan for the area. By engaging citizens as part of the design consultation process, the District of Summerland is seeking to develop a unique and appropriate vision for the grounds.

OBJECTIVES

The expected outcomes of the Summerland Rodeo Grounds Master Plan is to:
• Provide a long-term vision for this property.
• Provide staff with direction on property operations and management.
• Provide recommendations for operational requirements and capital investments including costing over the next 15 years.

ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES

As part of this commitment to community consultations, the District of Summerland will facilitate opportunities for citizens to provide meaningful, and actionable feedback through involvement that is convenient and accessible to all citizens.

There are two rounds of community engagement to get involved in the Rodeo Grounds master planning process.

Please see the results of the first round of community engagement: Engagement Summary (January 2023)

Please see the results of the second round of community engagement: Engagement Summary #2 (April 2023)

Public Open House #1

The public is invited to an evening open house to learn about the site, share their experiences and help shape the future master plan and vision for the Rodeo Grounds. Maps, panels and surveys along with District and consulting staff will help guide the process and to listen and record.
View Open House Information HERE.

Public Open House #2

February 28, 2023
4:30 – 6:30 pm (drop-in at any time)
George Ryga Arts & Cultural Centre
9525 Wharton St.
The public is invited to view two proposed concept designs and provide input prior to a final concept being developed. Concepts will be posted on this website prior to the Open House as well as a second online survey to capture community feedback.
View Open House Information HERE. 

The Summerland Rodeo Grounds Master Plan final document is being presented to Council on September 26, 2023 and will be posted on this webpage once it has been finalized.