Construction of the new arts and culture centre in Vernon has officially launched after a ground-breaking ceremony in August. The Greater Vernon Cultural Centre (GVCC) will be a downtown attraction, providing much-needed space for community cultural, art, and historical events and activities.

The new 31,000-square-foot facility will be a dynamic cultural hub for the region, home for the Vernon Public Art Gallery, Greater Vernon Museum, and a valuable 150-seat performance and presentation venue for the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre. Designed by Revery Architecture with construction managed by Sawchuk Developments, the facility will provide state-of-the art spaces to attract world-class travelling exhibitions and performances.

The Regional District of North Okanagan (RDNO) received a $500,000 grant from the Government of Canada’s Canada Cultural Spaces Fund. This program is committed to providing funding opportunities that reflect the many perspectives of Canada’s cultural life. It supports the improvement of physical conditions for arts, heritage culture, and creative innovation.

“We are grateful to the Government of Canada for this generous contribution”, said Bob Fleming, chair of the Greater Vernon Advisory Committee and Director of Electoral Area B. “This funding has been instrumental in helping move forward a project that will serve as a vibrant and inclusive space for creativity, learning, and connection. The support affirms the importance of investing in cultural infrastructure that reflects and celebrates the diverse voices of our community. We’re excited to see this vision come to life and thank our federal partners for helping make it possible.”

The RDNO has also applied for an additional $6.86 million through two other federal and provincial grant programs, which are still under review.