Access to Okanagan Lake is being restricted while the City of Penticton works on high-water protection measures.
The city sent out a news release on Friday stating that once the high-water protection measures are complete, the public will be able to sue the beach on Okanagan Lake from the SS Sicamous to the Peach, in the area between gabions and the walkway.
Related: Boaters and floaters advised to stay off water in South Okanagan-Similkameen
“Once the high-water begins to recede to the point where wave action will not damage infrastructure, the city will start taking steps to remove the gabions and return regular access to the beach,” said general manager of infrastructure, Mitch Morozuik. “The removal work will commence at the locations along Okanagan Beach where there are stairs and ramps. As the water recedes further, the remainder of the gabion wall will be removed.”
The high-water protection measures are necessary to prevent damage to landscaped areas and built infrastructure.
Direct, unobstructed access, from Lakeshore Drive, to the water, will be restricted due to the height of the gabion baskets, however access to the water along Okanagan Lake will still be available at:
— the SS Sicamous
— the stairs from the elevated walkway opposite 274 and 434 Lakeshore Drive W
— along the old retaining Wall from 440 to 488 Lakeshore Drive W
— along the west side of Rotary Park from the ramp on the north side of the Peach to the Romp Statue
— Marina Way Beach
The city said Skaha Beach has no restrictions and remains in excellent condition.