Penticton ends emergency after fire destroys long-term care construction site

The City of Penticton lifted its local state of emergency and cancelled the evacuation order a week after a fire razed the construction site at 453 Green Ave. The blaze destroyed a three‑storey building that was slated to become a 200‑bed long‑term care facility for seniors in the region.

Health Minister Josie Osborne said the fire "resets the project" and is "devastating to seniors in the region." RCMP and the local fire department continue their investigation. Officials confirmed that an unstable crane previously identified on the site is now secure, allowing the contractor to plan dismantling. Highway 97 is expected to reopen soon, while Green Avenue remains closed.

The incident affected ten nearby properties during the evacuation and prompted sympathy messages from city officials to residents and evacuees.