Darren Brewer

The City of Cranbrook continues to work on diversifying the local economy with regional partners from Calgary and Spokane, thanks to grant funding from the CanExport Community Investments program, through Global Affairs Canada.

This initiative aims to explore how Cranbrook can strengthen supply chains and foster innovation in the aerospace industry and its supporting sectors. It will involve strategic planning through a Business Case study and a Regional Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Attraction Strategy. The project builds on previous efforts to prepare investment-ready lands for development. The total cost is $81,000, with both the City and Global Affairs contributing equally. The City’s contribution of $41,000 will come from Economic Development, which focuses on attracting new businesses and jobs to Cranbrook.

“This is an initiative that fits well with our long-term development vision for future development of the industrial land at the Canadian Rockies International Airport,” says Mayor Wayne Price.

This project will host events in Cranbrook, Calgary, and Washington State to build support and partnerships, aiming to make Cranbrook a key hub in the Pacific Northwest aerospace sector. It will encourage collaboration, trade missions, and knowledge sharing, while attracting investment from companies in advanced materials, aircraft manufacturing, and aerospace technologies.

“We are committed to fostering regional collaboration and investment opportunities,” says Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer. “This will help form our long-term investment attraction strategy and strengthen ties with Calgary and Washington State.”

The City of Cranbrook gratefully acknowledges the CanExport Community Investments program within Global Affairs Canada, and the Government of Canada for this important grant funding, which is designed to help communities like Cranbrook attract foreign investment to help diversify local economies and create economic growth.

You can learn more about CanExport online here.

Cranbrook, BC (January 27, 2025) – After three years of extensive public engagement and valuable input from community stakeholders, City staff and new provincial legislation, the City’s new “Official Community Plan (OCP) – Our Path to 2042” was officially adopted by Council at their regular meeting on Monday.

This OCP, which replaces the previous one in place since 2006, sets a bold vision for the City of Cranbrook to guide our future growth, development, and changes for the next 20+ years. The plan was developed with extensive engagement to ensure the direction reflects the community’s input and desires.

“I would like to thank staff for their hard work and patience in the development of this new Official Community Plan, which will help to address housing concerns and provide new vision and direction for future development in Cranbrook,” says Mayor Wayne Price. “A special thank you to the many residents and businesses who provided their valuable ideas and comments which really helped shape this plan.”

The updated OCP also includes guiding principles, integration of various plans, new policy sections, and revised Development Permit Areas. It also features updated map schedules, neighborhood plans, and other changes driven by public feedback and the implementation of Bill 44, a recent piece of provincial legislation.

“The adoption of our new OCP is a big step forward for the future of the City of Cranbrook. It could not have happened without all the hard work and input from the previous and current term Councils, the community, stakeholders, staff, and our consulting team,” says Rob Veg, Manager of Planning. “This document is something we should all be proud of.”

The OCP review process started in fall 2021 with the aim of creating a new plan to guide Cranbrook’s future growth and development. The updated plan focuses on land use, community building, and strategic decision-making. It is built around Cranbrook’s Vision, Guiding Principles, and policies on key areas such as housing, social well-being, climate action, food security, economic development, heritage, arts and culture, parks and recreation, environmental hazards, transportation, and infrastructure.

The new OCP has also updated the development permit area guidelines and map schedules. No changes were made to the existing neighbourhood plans as those were not included as part of the scope of the rewrite; however, it is anticipated that those plans will be amended over time.

Learn more about the research and engagement work undertaken, and review the new OCP online @ https://cranbrook.ca/our-city/city-departments/oic/official-community-plan-ocp.

Cranbrook, BC (January 21, 2025) – Proposals are being accepted until April 21, 2025 by BC Builds and the City of Cranbrook for what is envisioned to be a new 30-unit mixed use apartment building, with social/community care or small-scale commercial use. The BC Builds Program is a partnership initiative, connecting landowners, developers, and housing operators to build housing for middle-income households.

The project site, located at 1501 1st Street South, in between the Baker Gardens Seniors Housing complexes near Baker Park. This location offers a prime opportunity for a mixed-use medium density development, with its proximity to the downtown, schools, and services.
The project site, located at 1501 1^st Street South, in between the Baker Gardens Seniors Housing complexes near Baker Park. This location offers a prime opportunity for a mixed-use medium density development, with its proximity to the downtown, schools, and services.

“Inflation, high interest rates, and construction costs have driven up costs and rents, and the reality is not enough middle-income housing is being built. Cranbrook is feeling this pressure, along with so many other communities across the province,” says Mayor Wayne Price. “We are happy to be working with BC Builds on purpose built rental accommodation for middle-income people like teachers, nurses, and construction workers that we so strongly need in Cranbrook, as part of the recommendations coming from the Mayor’s Task Force On Housing. This is such a positive step forward for Cranbrook.”

You can view the full notice online here.

For those interested in submitting proposals or looking for more information, BC Builds and the City are jointly hosting an information session on Monday, February 3, 2025 from 3:30 to 4:30pm MT. You can sign up to attend online at https://www.bcbuildshomes.ca/1501-st-cranbrook.

The provincial and federal government offer multiple funding streams for subsidized and low-income housing, but many middle-income working residents do not qualify for these programs and are still struggling to find appropriate and adequate housing. BC Builds, delivered by BC Housing, is working to fill that gap for middle-income earners. While it is not a low-income housing program, it is still important to provide for all housing needs in Cranbrook.

With this initiative, we will hopefully see new development of rental homes for middle-income working people throughout BC to find housing they can afford in the communities where they live and work.

Learn more about BC Builds at https://www.bcbuildshomes.ca/.

To learn more about development opportunities in Cranbrook, check out: https://www.choosecranbrook.ca/development-opportunities/.

For more information, please contact.

Santana Patten, Community Planner, Phone: 250-489-0204

Inaugural Season For Bird Canada’s e-Scooter Pilot Program In Cranbrook Hugely Successful

Cranbrook, BC (November 25, 2025) – Nearly 60,000 kilometres travelled, and 22,225 total rides highlight important usage statistics for the first complete season of Cranbrook’s e-Scooter Pilot Program through Bird Canada.

According to ride data collected and presented to Council Monday night, the average distance travelled per trip was about 2.7 km, compared to the national average of 2.5 km. Peak e-scooter rides were between 2pm and 10pm with high e-scooter use Friday and Saturday nights. E-scooter use was consistent during all days and hours meaning that riders were using e-scooters for running afternoon errands or commuting between home and work.

“The results of the pilot program indicate it was very successful. A big thank you to Bird Canada and to the many e-scooter users who supported the program,” says Mayor Wayne Price. “We are aware of a few concerns the public has shared, but those will be addressed next season.”

Other notable statistics presented show that most e-scooter rides originated in the downtown core with 97% of riders using an e-scooter more than 5 times. Nearly 34% of Cranbrook riders had ridden an e-scooter more than 50 times this past season.

Injuries are self-reported, with no reports received by Bird Canada to date in Cranbrook, with no significant damage found to the e-scooters.

Bird Canada is currently completing a public survey on e-scooter ridership, looking for demographics on who is using the scooters and to learn more about how riders are typically using e-scooters. Watch for more information in early 2025 that summarizes the results of this survey.

Learn more about the Cranbrook e-Scooter Pilot Program and Bird Canada at https://cranbrook.ca/our-city/city-departments/public-works/e-scooter-pilot-program.

Cranbrook, BC (September 12, 2024) – Just over 40 thousand kilometres travelled, and 13,824 total rides highlight the first two and a half months of Cranbrook’s e-Scooter Pilot Program through Bird Canada. Administration provided an update to Council last week at their regular meeting on September 9, 2024.

According to ride data collected by Bird Canada, the average distance travelled per trip is about 2.9 km, compared to the national average of 2.5 km per trip. Peak e-scooter rides happen between 2pm and 10pm with most rides originating downtown or at 2nd Street North and Victoria Avenue around Western Financial Place.

“It’s such great news to see how the community has embraced e-Scooters in Cranbrook and have created such strong numbers in such a short time,” says Katelyn Pocha, Project Manager. “The usage data and positive community response are promising signs that this program is meeting its goals and shows how residents are integrating e-Scooters into their daily routines, whether for errands or commuting between home and work.”

Meantime, both Bird Canada and the City strongly encourage e-Scooter riders to use the helmets provided or use your own for your own safety. It is also vital that e-Scooters are only used on the roadways or multi-purpose pathways like Rotary Way and not on the sidewalks.

Riders are also asked to be aware of where they leave e-Scooters when they are finished using them. Not leaving e-Scooters in the middle of sidewalks, at street corners, in front of business doors and other public access points will make sure that everyone including those with mobility issues can move about safely and without difficulty. Any concerns should be directed to Bird Canada via their app or by emailing [email protected].

e-Scooters are expected to remain available well into the fall months, weather permitting and available for the public to ride again in spring 2025.

The City of Cranbrook is excited to announce the redevelopment of Choose Cranbrook and the release of four new Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) attraction videos designed to showcase the vibrant opportunities and strategic advantages of investing in Cranbrook. The videos highlight the City’s key attributes, development prospects, and partnerships, underlining Cranbrook’s commitment to economic growth and sustainable development.

1. This Is Cranbrook / ʔa·kisk􀹂aqⱡiʔit This video introduces viewers to the City of Cranbrook, showcasing key stats, infrastructure, and high quality of life. This video underscores why Cranbrook is not just a place to live, but a strategic location for business growth and innovation.
2. ɁamakɁis Natanik This video showcases the land development opportunities at the Canadian Rockies International Airport, highlights the proposed Natanik Renewable Energy Project, and illustrates how Cranbrook’s proactive development policies and supportive business environment make it an ideal destination for investors seeking new opportunities.
3. ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises In collaboration with ʔaq̓am, this video emphasizes Cranbrook’s strong commitment to Indigenous partnerships and reconciliation. The partnership with ʔaq̓am is showcased through various joint initiatives, demonstrating a shared vision for sustainable growth and mutual prosperity.
4. Natanik Renewable Energy Highlighting ʔaq̓am’s forward-thinking approach to sustainable development, this video introduces the Natanik Renewable Energy project. It teases developers with our plans to harness local renewable resources, reduce carbon emissions, and create green jobs, reinforcing Cranbrook’s position as regional hub.

“These videos have allowed ACE to share our stories far and wide, engaging a wide network of people as we fulfil our mandate for the ʔaq̓amnik􀹂 people,” says Craig Campbell, General Manager of ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises (ACE). “We are grateful for the support and look forward to our bright future.”

“We are thrilled to unveil our new series of FDI attraction videos showcasing the City’s development opportunities and strategic advantages for investors,” says Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer for the City. “ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises and the City of Cranbrook’s economic development office are working together with a shared vision and goals to create generational wealth for its surrounding communities. Furthermore, the videos shine a spotlight on the important community to community work we are doing in our efforts for reconciliation with our local First Nation.”

The videos are part of Cranbrook’s broader economic development strategy, which includes recent initiatives such as participation in BC Hydro’s Load Attraction Program. The City’s efforts have been recognized nationally with awards from the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) for excellence in community economic development.

To view the new FDI attraction videos and learn more about Cranbrook’s investment opportunities, visit

This Is Cranbrook (youtube.com)

 ɁamakɁis Natanik (youtube.com)

 ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises (ACE) (youtube.com)

 Natanik Renewable Energy (youtube.com)

On top of offering an idyllic slice of Rocky Mountain paradise, the City of Cranbrook occupies an area of significantly untapped potential, presenting investors with a unique and compelling offer to pave the way toward reconciliation while also turning them onto renewable energy opportunities for high-draw power users.

Supporting the progressive efforts of the ʔaq̓am community, a member community of the Ktunaxa First Nation, the city is working on an ambitious economic development strategy that is primed with development possibilities for businesses in the industrial, manufacturing or hospitality sectors.

Natanik, which translates into “sun,” is a renewable energy project and land development that represents truth and reconciliation in action. The project has two main elements: a utility-grade renewable energy project and the development of more than 100 acres of lease-only land adjacent to the Canadian Rockies International Airport.

ʔaq̓am Community Enterprises (ACE) and the City of Cranbrook’s economic development office are working together with a shared vision and goals to create generational wealth for its surrounding communities. This is a historic opportunity, a vision of Indigenous clean energy that’s ready to power business and economic reconciliation.

“ACE was created to generate revenue and create economic opportunities through sound business practices and strategic relationships,” says Ktunaxa Nation elder and ACE board member Marty Williams. “It’s important we develop relationships to develop businesses that are sustainable, and we welcome anyone who has a business and is looking to expand to work with us.”

This is a project that offers a myriad of opportunities highlighted by two main selling points: electricity supplied through a First Nations-led green energy project and an airport that is on the doorstep of Rocky Mountain gems.

“It’s our airport and our city that makes the experience for the hotels and the traveller truly unique,” says City of Cranbrook economic development officer Darren Brewer. “Instead of flying into a busy airport in Calgary or Vancouver to get to Jasper or Banff, we can offer a gateway that makes a memorable connection to the Rockies.”

The land is ideally suited for light industrial, manufacturing or hospitality opportunities: think hotels, aerospace, logistics, supply chain, tech start-ups and high-draw power users, among others.

Available electricity can be scarce in large swaths of Canada, not to mention the need to navigate lengthy wait times with local governments.

“Cranbrook is a great location for companies looking to establish clean and sustainable operations in B.C.,” Brewer adds. “Close collaboration between government and municipalities along with leading climate policies, critical infrastructure, and top talent all help companies to get established and grow. In addition, streamlined regulations make registering a business easier and applying for permits and licenses easier.”

And because Cranbrook is B.C.’s sunniest city, the solar power component makes sense. 

“Natanik represents more than just a renewable energy project and employment lands; it embodies economic reconciliation in action,” says ACE general manager Craig Campbell. “It offers a historic opportunity to partner with a First Nation community, fostering sustainable development while creating generational wealth for our community.”

Cranbrook, BC (January 25, 2024) – Just over $38.4 million dollars in total construction value was reported to have occurred in the City of Cranbrook over the course of 2023, with a total of 198 building permits issued during that time. Administration provided Council an overview of both construction values and development permit figures for 2023, at Council’s regular meeting on Monday, January 22, 2024. The breakdown by quarter is reported as follows:

Quarter # Of Permits Issued Total Construction Value
• 1st Quarter (January – March 2023) 47 $7.3 million
• 2nd Quarter (April – June 2023) 46 $11.1 million
• 3rd Quarter (July – September 2023) 53 $11 million
• 4th Quarter (October – December 2023) 52 $9 million

“Based on the number of subdivision approval applications we received in 2023, I am optimistic that we will see an increase in housing development,” says Mayor Wayne Price. “We should also see a number of high density residential projects, which are now in the permit stages, commence this building season.” A total of 21 single family dwelling starts, and 8 mobile home placements were reported over the year, helping to add to the City’s housing inventory. Several significant building and renovation projects were also on the books for 2023 including:

• Superstore interior alterations for construction value of $800,000.00
• Substantial renovation @ 32 – 9th Avenue South to accommodate the future Ktunaxa Nation Council Health Centre for a value of $2.57 million.
• New Odor Control building serving Shadow Mountain Sewer line extension valued at $1.58 million.
• $1.3 million renovation to 6th Street North Plaza (beside 7-Eleven) for future relocation of Symmetry Dental
• Demolition and subsequent new construction of a two-story infill unit including façade upgrades to the Furniture Store along Baker Street (Hush Home Furnishings) for a value of $1.2 million.
• 3 City of Cranbrook permits: Elizabeth Lake Viewing Platform; Elizabeth Lake Picnic Shelter; and the replacement of the Balment Stairs.
• Renovation of the former Harley Davidson Dealership for the new CENTEX gas & convenience store on Cranbrook Street valued at $800k.
• Bank of Montreal modernization renovation valued at $1.8 million.
• An Overflow Shop serving the Nissan dealership for a value of $845k.
• Renovation of Staff Area for the ER Department at the East Kootenay Regional Hospital for a construction value of $455k.
• A building permit issued for the roof system upgrades to the Memorial Arena for a construction value of approx. $2.9 million.

“We are excited to see the continued investment in residential housing, commercial, and industrial properties throughout the City. Our building and business community deserve a lot of credit,” says Mike Matjeka, Director of Engineering and Development Services. “2024 is shaping up to see continued growth, with the City placing a strong focus on adding to the housing inventory with the potential creation of over 150 new lots as well as two new apartment buildings looking to break ground with an additional 146 units.”