Changes worth an estimated $10,000 could be coming to Nanaimo Square in downtown Penticton.

On April 1, Penticton City Council will decide whether to follow through with a proposed plan at the intersection, in response to ongoing concerns.

Among the potential changes in the area include the removal of a spruce tree, fountain, and concrete surround.

"Nanaimo Square is a busy intersection in downtown Penticton,香蕉视频直播� said Julie Czeck, general manager of public safety and partnerships. 香蕉视频直播淪urrounded by a bank, retail, restaurants and full of vibrancy in the summer months, this location has increasingly become an area for problematic behaviours, including overnight sheltering, social disorder and loitering."

Czeck added that since 2021, there have been a total 408 calls to bylaw officers and 1,318 to RCMP in the area.

The approximated cost to remove the tree and fountain and restore the area is $10,000, according to a staff report. It would be funded through the city's general surplus in 2025.

In response to the safety concerns, bylaw members and the RCMP's Community Policing conducted a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment in summer 2024.

Other proposed changes include repairing paving stone areas and "activation of the space through the city香蕉视频直播檚 mobile vendor program," the report reads.

If endorsed by city council next week, changes could take effect as early as this spring.

"Based on our data and recent CPTED assessment, we香蕉视频直播檙e hopeful that these measures will enhance the comfort and overall experience in the area," Czeck added. 香蕉视频直播淲e worked closely with the Downtown Penticton Business Association and chamber of commerce on a phased approach that allows us to monitor and make additional changes or improvements if required.香蕉视频直播�