New vintage equipment-themed park to take shape on Bunker Road

KAMLOOPS — The City of Kamloops is putting together a treat for vintage vehicle buffs and Kamloops heritage enthusiasts.

In a news release, Parks and Civic Facilities Manager Jeff Putnam says what was once a passive green space near Thompson Rivers University will be transformed into a home for heritage-themed trucks and equipment.

The so-called Truck Chilling Park, at the corner of Bunker Road and McGill Road, is now home to a 1940s-era GMC truck formerly employed by the City of Kamloops, festooned with a floral display.

Putnam says the display became so popular, the City decided to make the space into an accessible park.

In the coming weeks, City staff will add a 1947 Chevy pickup, a 1949 Federal truck and a century-old road grader used to maintain Kamloops streets beginning in 1928. In addition, the park will include accessible parking and pathways, trees, picnic tables and historical signage.

Road grader purchased by the City of Kamloops in 1928 (Image Credit: City of Kamloops)

The park will also include the Sagebrush Sam neon sign that adorned the former Sagebrush Motel on Columbia Street for many years. After the motel was demolished in 2008, the City acquired the sign and refurbished it.

“Sagebrush Sam will be a familiar sight to many Kamloopsians. We’re looking forward to having such a fun piece of Kamloops history preserved and on display in a beautiful setting for residents and visitors to enjoy,” said Museum Supervisor Julia Cyr.

Putnam says the project will cost $92,000 and is expected to be finished next month.

Artist’s rendering of the Sagebrush Sam sign destined for Truck Chilling Park (Image Credit: Urban Appeal Landscaping / City of Kamloops)