Some of our image-laden pages may load more slowly depending on your internet service. Patience if they don't display immediately. You'll be glad you waited.

South Okanagan Photos

Proposed Shuttle Service – Osoyoos to Kelowna

South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce
President’s Message
by Holly Plante, President

Recently Sam Samaddar and Jenelle Hynes with the Kelowna International Airport, Mayor Stu Wells, Town of Osoyoos CAO Barry Romanko, Watermark Beach Resort – Ingrid Jarrett, Destination Osoyoos – Jo Knight, Osoyoos Town Councilor Mike Plante, South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce Transportation Advisor – Robert Linttell and myself met recently to talking about a new idea – a shuttle service.

The meeting was chaired by Ingrid Jarrett, (Watermark and Chair TOTA – Thompson Okanagan Tourist Association).

All stakeholders highly supported the concept with the belief such service would help the community economic development and tourism businesses. Stakeholders sited various experiences using similar services in other jurisdictions and well understood the value for the traveler to have the option of using direct transportation service.

After extensive discussion, it was agreed to proceed with the preparation of a business plan by a credited and experienced third party which would provide all stakeholders and the various municipal and district government key information which would enable the committee to direct further effort for the proposed service, funding, operation, etc.

Robert Linttell is the SOCC designated representative on the Kelowna International Advisory Committee for a two year period. Mayor Wells was pleased to see such representation from the South Okanagan but highly recommended further representation on this committee from the political arm should be considered. Mr. Sam Samaddar made note of this recommendation and agreed to contact various parties capable of producing a proposed business plan. Mr.Samaddar’s familiarity with such reports for airport services was the logical choice of the committee.

The SOCC is committed to engaging other municipal and regional interest in this study and undertaking. As part of this commitment Robert Linttell will provide a transportation presentation open to the public at the forthcoming March 20th/13 SOCC Business after Business scheduled at Road 13 Winery at 5:30 pm.