Academy Way's development story is far from over. Kelowna City Council has approved significant new density that will reshape the University District over the next several years, good news for existing owners and an important signal for buyers considering entry now.
The single largest addition to Academy Way since the street's development began in 2014. Kelowna City Council approved a large, student-focused mixed-use development at 825 Academy Way featuring:
This development significantly increases the density of the University District and will bring ground-floor retail and commercial amenities that have been largely absent from the street since it was built. More foot traffic, more services, and more neighbourhood maturity, all of which benefit existing owners.
A second development is planned for Academy Way: a 4-storey commercial and residential building featuring:
This project targets a different segment than the studio-heavy earlier buildings: larger units for the more established UBCO community. Alongside the 825 Academy Way development, it signals that the University District is maturing toward a complete, mixed-demographic neighbourhood rather than a purely student-housing corridor.
What This Means for Current Owners
Increased density on a street is typically a value driver for existing strata owners, not a threat. More residents means more demand for existing units from both buyers and renters, more foot traffic supporting local business, and a stronger case for city infrastructure investment. If you own on Academy Way and are wondering how these approvals affect your unit's value, get a free valuation from Michael.
Common Questions