New multi-use overpass builds community connection

Photo credit: Michael Hintringer Photography, Lianne Viau Photography

Funding provided through the Community stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund

A long-held community vision is now a reality. The City of Kelowna's new Highway 97 crossing delivers a safe, connected link between downtown, Rowcliffe Park, and the Pandosy neighbourhood – built for pedestrians and cyclists, and built to last.

The Bertram Multi-Use Overpass is a pedestrian and cyclist pathway that improves connectivity between growing communities. This overpass stretches over Highway 97 to welcome residents of all-ages and abilities to promote active and healthy living.

Collaboration that builds connection

A project of this magnitude is a result of the collective efforts of partners who came together and were united by a shared goal. To support a growing community and help reduce traffic congestion, collaboration was essential to delivering results. Federal support through the Community stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund (formerly Canada Community-Building Fund) complemented provincial funding through the Growing Communities Fund and municipal investments, to build an accessible crossing over one of Kelowna's busiest transportation corridors.

Advancing active transportation

Designed to integrate into Kelowna's broader active transportation network, the overpass provides a sustainable connection to nearby public transit, employment, services, and green spaces – inviting residents to move more freely.

The Bertram Multi-Use Overpass supports a range of active transportation and mobility options, including walking, cycling, and rolling. This allows residents to safely and securely cross one of the area's busiest highways. Since opening to the public, residents have incorporated the overpass into their everyday life, supporting active modes of travel between school, work, and community spaces.

With stronger neighbourhood connectivity that encourages active and low-emission travel, this new overpass supports higher-density, walkable development in the downtown core. Future planned connections to Kelowna's broader active transportation network will help continue to build a strong, sustainable, and connected community.

Quick facts

• The Build Communities Strong Fund will provide $51 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, to support public infrastructure projects of local and regional significance.
• The Community stream (formerly the Canada Community-Building Fund) of the Build Communities Strong Fund will provide $27.8 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, and $3 billion per year ongoing, as planned, to support local infrastructure priorities.
• Communities across the country can use the funding to make strategic investments across 19 project categories, including local roads, bridges, public transit, water systems, and community centres.

For more information

• Build Communities Strong Fund
• Community stream in British Columbia
• Overpass opening marks milestone in City infrastructure