Phase one of the Kelowna International Airport development program is set to begin.

Kelowna Council got the ball rolling last Monday, approving a $2.9 million contract to Peter Bros. Construction for parking and road improvements.

The improvements include paving vehicle parking, additional metered parking and extended bus and shuttle parking.

"The parking and road improvements are all part of the ground work that needs to take place before the terminal expansion begins," says Airport Assistant G, Dave Fuller.

The $36 million expansion will include a two story international terminal, improved ground access and vehicle parking as well as the much anticipated runway extension.

The expanded runway is scheduled for completion in October of this year.