Construction on the Kamloops Centre for the Arts will shift into full gear on Monday, Feb.  2, at 393 Seymour St. in the heart of downtown.  

As the priority project under the Build Kamloops program, the Kamloops Centre for the Arts is expected to become a major cultural destination and a catalyst for economic activity, creativity, and community connection when it opens in 2029. 

Following 18 months of detailed planning and validation, the project team—made up of architects, engineers, builders, and City staff—has developed a construction plan that balances ambition with careful coordination in a busy downtown environment.  

Beginning next week, 4th Avenue from Seymour Street to St. Paul Street will be closed for approximately two weeks as crews complete shallow utility work. Once complete, the corridor will reopen to two-lane traffic.  

Photo Credit: City of Kamloops

As construction progresses and deep excavation begins to take shape, portions of surrounding roads will be used for construction staging and deliveries, resulting in lane closures, pedestrian detours, and traffic pattern adjustments in the downtown area. Motorists are encouraged to plan extra travel time and follow posted signage. 

On-street parking immediately adjacent to the north, east, and south sides of the project site will be either restricted or unavailable until construction is complete in 2029. Additional parking restrictions may be implemented in the area, in accordance with the project’s traffic management plan. To reduce pressure on downtown parking, satellite work areas and off-site crew parking will be utilized. 

The southbound transit stop on 4th Avenue at Seymour Street will not be in service. The next available stop is on 4th Avenue at Battle Street. Riders are encouraged to visit the BC Transit website for the most up-to-date route and scheduling information. 

The City appreciates the patience and co-operation of residents, businesses, and visitors as this transformative project moves forward. Regular updates will be shared as construction progresses to help the community and impacted parties stay informed.  

Photo Credit: City of Kamloops

When complete, the Kamloops Centre for the Arts will include the following amenities:  

• Theatre One: Premier venue with 1,100 seats and advanced technical features 
• Theatre Two: Intimate venue with 450 seats designed for Broadway-style productions  
• Feature Lobby, Café, and Gallery: 17,400 sq. ft. lobby for gatherings, café for food service, and gallery space for art displays 
• Back of House: Loading dock, rehearsal halls, green rooms, dressing rooms, offices, concession areas, art storage, box offices, and general storage 
• Underground Parking: Two-level parking structure with 158 parking spaces  

Funded through a mix of debt, reserves, fundraising, and the reallocation of existing funds, this purpose-built venue will fill an important gap in the community identified in strategic plans for almost two decades. 

To stay informed on this monumental project, click this link.