How New Industrial Developments Are Transforming Vernon, BC

1 year ago

Vernon, BC, has long been known for its natural beauty, tourism economy, and strong agricultural roots. But a shift is underway. In recent years, Vernon and the surrounding North Okanagan region have seen a surge in industrial development—reshaping the landscape and economic potential of the area.

From Orchards to Industry

Vernon’s early economy was built around farming, sawmills, and later, tourism. But with increasing demand for employment diversity and long-term economic stability, the city has embraced industrial growth as a core part of its future. The City of Vernon, along with regional partners in Coldstream and the North Okanagan, has prioritized zoning, infrastructure, and land use planning to attract a new wave of industrial investment.

Major Industrial Developments

Silver Star Gateway Park

Silver Star Gateway Business Park

This multi-phase commercial and light-industrial development has attracted national tenants, offering flexible warehouse spaces with modern energy-efficient design. Located at a strategic transportation hub near Silver Star Road, this development combines access, visibility, and growing investment.

5460 Anderson Way

Positioned in the city’s growing north-end industrial area, this eight-unit concrete development provides flexible space ranging from under 2,000 square feet to over 15,000. The rapid sales and occupancy reflect Vernon’s high demand for new commercial and industrial inventory.

Eco-Industrial Park – Coldstream

Perhaps the most transformative project is the emerging Eco-Industrial Park in Coldstream, just outside Vernon. This forward-thinking park is set across nearly 100 acres and is focused on attracting environmentally conscious businesses in sectors like clean manufacturing, agri-tech, and distribution. The land is fully serviced and zoned for light industry, making it “shovel ready” for buyers. It offers flexible parcel sizes for medium to large-scale users and emphasizes reduced environmental footprints—encouraging sustainable building practices, shared green infrastructure, and site-specific resource management.

The Eco-Industrial Park isn’t just about business—it’s about aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility and long-term land stewardship. It supports the broader regional goal of becoming a hub for innovative and sustainable industry in the Okanagan Valley.

Economic Impact and Job Growth

Industrial developments bring immediate construction employment, followed by long-term jobs in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, and tech. These jobs tend to pay well and help reduce Vernon’s reliance on seasonal tourism employment.

From a municipal standpoint, industrial projects broaden the tax base with minimal strain on services. This additional revenue supports road upgrades, water systems, recreation, and more—delivering tangible benefits to residents.

Supporting Infrastructure and Investment

To support growth, the City of Vernon has committed over $28 million in capital infrastructure improvements, including roadway expansions, stormwater upgrades, and transportation improvements. The Regional District and municipalities have also updated zoning bylaws and streamlined permitting processes to better accommodate industrial users.

The Bigger Picture

With population growth continuing at nearly 2% per year, Vernon is under pressure to create stable employment, expand its tax base, and make productive use of available land. Industrial developments—especially when planned with sustainability and regional integration in mind—are becoming the backbone of that strategy.

As Vernon grows, what types of industry—clean tech, advanced manufacturing, food processing—do you think should shape the region’s future?

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