Okanagan College proposes converting Penticton student housing into hotel space

Okanagan College is proposing to convert its unoccupied student housing units in Penticton into hotel accommodations during summer months when campus programming is limited. The college submitted a letter of intent to the city stating that the additional revenue would help fund future improvements and allow for more affordable on-campus housing rates for students during the academic year.

Penticton City Council has scheduled a public hearing for September 29 to discuss the request. Approval would require amendments to both the Official Community Plan and the current Public Assembly zoning to permit tourist use at the site. The housing facility, located at 1080 Railway St., currently contains 89 units with a total of 101 beds. If the proposal is approved, Okanagan College will be responsible for all associated development costs.