Uncategorized

We’re excited to launch Make it in Cranbrook—a new investment attraction series designed to showcase what makes our community one of the most promising places in British Columbia to build a future.

Make what? That’s up to you.
Make your career.
Make your business.
Make your family life.
Make your future.

Cranbrook is more than just a city in the mountains—it’s a place where opportunities and lifestyle line up. Investors are discovering the advantages of a strategic location, excellent transportation links, and access to the sunniest City  in BC. Entrepreneurs are finding space to grow, access talent, and a supportive community that believes in innovation.

Families are choosing Cranbrook for safe neighbourhoods, affordable housing, and the lifestyle that comes with being surrounded by nature.

Through Make it in Cranbrook, we’ll be highlighting stories, insights, and opportunities that show why this is more than a place to visit—it’s a place to put down roots, grow your business, and create lasting success. Over the coming months, we’ll share perspectives from local leaders, industry partners, and new investors who have already made it here.

Cranbrook is a city on the rise. And whether you’re looking to scale a company, expand into new markets, or simply find a better balance between work and life, this is where you can make it happen.

Cranbrook, BC – October 17, 2025 — The City of Cranbrook is celebrating a major victory in the world of economic development, having just scored a rare double win that’s turning heads across the country.

Choose Cranbrook has been awarded the prestigious 2025 EDAC Canadian Marketing Award for Best Website, a national honour recognizing excellence in municipal marketing. But the celebration doesn’t stop there—earlier this year Choose Cranbrook also clinched the 2025 BCEDA Award for Marketing Innovation, making it one of the few communities to sweep both provincial and national awards in the same year.

“It’s like winning the NHL’s Presidents’ Trophy and the Stanley Cup in the same season,” said Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer for the City of Cranbrook. “We’re incredibly proud of this achievement and what it represents for our community’s growing reputation as a hub for innovation, investment, and opportunity.”

The award-winning website—www.choosecranbrook.ca—is a bold, interactive platform designed to showcase Cranbrook’s strengths in natural resources, emerging technologies, and lifestyle advantages. With clean design, intuitive navigation, and compelling storytelling, it’s become a powerful tool for attracting talent, investment, and attention to the region.

The Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) praised the site for its “engaging and professional presentation,” while the British Columbia Economic Development Association (BCEDA) highlighted its “innovative approach to regional marketing and stakeholder engagement.”

“This recognition is a testament to the collaborative spirit of Cranbrook,” added Brewer. “From local businesses to regional partners, everyone played a role in helping us tell our story in a way that resonates across Canada.”

To explore the award-winning platform, visit www.choosecranbrook.ca or check out Cranbrook – Website: Marketing Awards 2025 on Vimeo

Did you know the Kootenay Children’s Festival is the longest running free children’s festival in Canada? In 2026, this beloved Cranbrook tradition will celebrate its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of joy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences for families across the region.

The Festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of childhood, imagination, and community. Every year, families come together to enjoy a day packed with interactive activities, captivating performances, and delightful surprises designed to inspire children of all ages. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to discover.

Festival Highlights:
• Live Performances: Talented musicians, dancers, puppeteers, and storytellers take the stage, leaving young audiences wide-eyed and amazed.
• Interactive Workshops: Kids get hands-on with arts and crafts, science experiments, and other creative activities that spark curiosity and learning.
• Games and Activities: From face painting and bouncy castles to scavenger hunts and friendly competitions, there’s fun around every corner.
• Delicious Treats: A wide variety of food vendors ensures everyone has something tasty to enjoy while taking a break from all the excitement.

Beyond the activities, the Festival is a chance for families to connect, make memories, and be part of a community tradition that has inspired generations. Over the years, thousands of children have experienced the wonder of the Festival, and each year adds new stories, new laughter, and new adventures.

As we approach the 40th anniversary in 2026, the Kootenay Children’s Festival is gearing up to make the milestone year extra special. It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce your kids to the magic of the Festival, revisit fond memories, or simply enjoy a day of laughter, learning, and fun together.

Mark your calendars, bring the whole family, and join us in celebrating the joy of childhood at the Kootenay Children’s Festival. See you there!

The City of Cranbrook recently took its vision for economic diversification and innovation on the road, presenting at key conferences across the Pacific Northwest thanks to funding from the CanExport Community Investments program, administered by Global Affairs Canada. This grant has enabled the City to explore new industries and foreign direct investment opportunities, especially within the aerospace sector and its supporting ecosystems.

As part of this initiative, Cranbrook representatives spoke at two major events: the PNWER Annual Summit in Bellevue, Washington, and the I-90 Aerospace Corridor Conference in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. At PNWER, elected officials and policy makers gathered to discuss strategic trade corridors and cross-border collaboration. Cranbrook took the opportunity to speak with partners from Alberta and other member jurisdictions about increasing cross-border trade and building regional partnerships.

Cranbrook’s presence at both conferences reinforces its commitment to sustainable growth in collaboration with cities like Calgary and Spokane.

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

The aerospace-focused initiative includes strategic planning through a Business Case Study and a Regional Foreign Direct Investment Attraction Strategy. With a total investment of $81,000—split equally between the City and Global Affairs Canada—Cranbrook is laying the groundwork for attracting companies in advanced materials, aircraft manufacturing, and aerospace technologies.

“We are committed to fostering regional collaboration and investment opportunities,” said Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer.

To support the initiative, The City will host an event in Cranbrook & attend events in  Calgary, and Washington State to develop partnerships and position the City as a key hub in the Pacific Northwest aerospace sector. These events will promote knowledge sharing, investment missions, and collaboration among industry leaders.

The City of Cranbrook acknowledges the CanExport Community Investments program and Global Affairs Canada for their support. From Bellevue to Coeur d’Alene, Cranbrook continues to take bold steps toward building an innovation-driven regional economy.

A number of key infrastructure projects in the City of Cranbrook’s 2025 Capital Works program are progressing well, with several additional initiatives preparing to break ground later this summer. These improvements reflect the City’s commitment to sustainable, responsible growth and long-term community development.

Construction is now underway for Phase 1 of the Victoria Avenue Sanitary Sewer Trunk replacement. Copcan Civil LP is upgrading and upsizing the existing system between 6th Street North and 2nd Street North to alleviate sanitary capacity concerns. Full roadway repaving of this section will follow the underground work. Traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction on Victoria Avenue until the end of October.

Work also continues on the 6th Street South reconstruction. Gally Equipment Services Ltd. has completed installation of a new watermain, service lines, and water meters, along with upgraded storm infrastructure to support the redesigned roadway. Although recent rainfall has temporarily paused construction to allow subgrade soils to dry, the project remains on track.

On 18th Street South, Gally Equipment also delivered an early and budget-conscious installation of a new fire hydrant—an important safety enhancement for the community.

Progress is also being made on the City’s environmental infrastructure. Phase 4 of the Sewer Lagoons Project has been awarded to Lambourne Environmental. Desludging of Cell 2 began in early July and is proceeding smoothly, with expected sludge volumes successfully removed. Aeration will be reinstated before work begins on Cell 3, where new airlines and diffusers will be installed. Baffle curtain installation is planned for fall 2025.

Meanwhile, thanks to a $500,000 Active Transportation grant from the Province of British Columbia, McPhee Road is preparing for a major upgrade. The project will include a new raised and separated multi-use path between Theatre Road and Industrial Road F, along with full resurfacing of this Priority 1 roadway. Design work is complete, and staff are currently reviewing contractor submissions following procurement closure in mid-July. Construction is anticipated to take place between mid-August and mid-October.

Another cornerstone project is the launch of the City Water Supply UV Disinfection Facility. Following a competitive proposal process, Kiewit was selected as the project contractor. Collaborative design meetings are now underway between the City, Kiewit, and consulting engineers to develop detailed plans that emphasize efficiency and effectiveness. Future updates will be provided as the design process continues.

These capital works are more than construction projects—they are foundational elements in Cranbrook’s strategy to grow and evolve responsibly, supporting public health, infrastructure modernization, environmental sustainability, and mobility.

Learn more Capital Projects – Economic Development Data Platform

Cranbrook is experiencing a noticeable upswing in construction activity, with high-density residential and multifamily developments leading the way in the first half of 2025. This upward trend is expected to continue as the city leverages key infrastructure investments and policy updates designed to support growth.

According to a report presented to Council by the Engineering and Development Services department, building permit activity and construction values have increased significantly compared to the same period in 2024:

Permit Values to June 30 2025: $35,559,381.85 (108 permits) 2024: $14,962,005.50 (99 permits)

The 2025 figures show strong investment across multiple construction sectors:

• Single Family: $15,392,449.89 (up from $10,264,152 in 2024)
• Multi-Family: $10,650,000.00 (up from $0 in 2024)
• Commercial: $4,045,490.00
• Industrial: $443,610.00
• Institutional: $1,850,000.00
• Government: $1,592,000.00

One of the most notable projects includes WestUrban Development Ltd’s $10.65 million apartment complex on 4th Street North. WestUrban is also exploring another development site on Kootenay Street North for 2025 or 2026.

Subdivision approvals have also climbed in 2025, with eight projects cleared so far. Highlights include 43 new housing lots in Shadow Mountain and a resubmission for 23 additional lots. Other active developments include new townhomes near St. Mary’s School, projects along 1st Avenue South overlooking Elizabeth Lake, and Southwood Heights by New Dawn Developments. The city has observed an increase in smaller lot sizes and duplex-style dwellings aimed at better addressing market and housing demands.

This growth follows strategic moves by the city, including updates to the Official Community Plan, Downtown Revitalization Master Plan, and Housing Needs Assessment. The recent launch of Revitalization Tax Exemption bylaws for the downtown area and Victoria Avenue corridor is already drawing increased interest in new developments.

“Our revitalization efforts are starting to show results, especially around Victoria Avenue,” says Mayor Wayne Price. “We’re seeing real interest thanks to targeted policy updates and infrastructure planning.”

Major regional projects are also on the horizon. These include a $232 million upgrade to the F.W. Green Home, planning for an $89 million expansion of East Kootenay Regional Hospital, and replacement plans for Amy Woodland Elementary School.

With this increase in development complexity, staff are focused on supporting builders and developers through clearer processes and improved communication. Permit turnaround times remain competitive, though additional support is being planned.

“We’re working hard to keep pace,” says Mike Matejka, Director of Engineering and Development Services. “We’ll be updating the Development Guide later this year to help streamline more complex and higher-density projects.”

The city welcomes this surge in construction as a sign of economic vitality. Residents and developers alike are choosing Cranbrook, and together, they are helping shape its future.

The City of Cranbrook is taking decisive steps to increase and incentivize development along key corridors through its new Tax Revitalization Program. Designed to spark investment and enhance the urban fabric, the initiative focuses on encouraging growth in both the Downtown core and the Victoria Avenue corridor.

In Downtown Cranbrook, the program provides compelling incentives for new commercial and mixed-use developments valued at $1 million or more. It also supports substantial renovations to existing buildings and façade improvements—making it easier for property owners to elevate and modernize their assets. Qualifying projects are eligible for municipal property tax exemptions of up to five years, with relief ranging from 80 percent to 100 percent depending on the scope of work.

Victoria Avenue is being positioned as a high-potential corridor for new residential growth. Developments must include a minimum of five living units and carry a construction value of at least $1 million to qualify. These projects will receive a five-year tax exemption, beginning at 100 percent in the first year and gradually tapering to 20 percent by the fifth year.

These strategic programs support the City’s broader goal of fostering responsible and sustainable growth by encouraging reinvestment in targeted areas that have strong potential to evolve into vibrant, mixed-use destinations. The City is laying the groundwork for increased housing supply, more diverse commercial opportunities, and a revitalized urban environment—all while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

Developers and builders who share the vision of a thriving, modern Cranbrook are invited to take part in this effort to shape the community’s future. The Tax Revitalization Program represents an open call to invest in projects that serve both present needs and long-term aspirations.

More details and planning tools are available at www.choosecranbrook.ca, including access to the Downtown Revitalization Master Plan, data and GIS portals, and direct contact information for City planning staff.

For more information please visit https://data.choosecranbrook.ca/tours?tour=downtown_revitalization_victoria_av

The Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) is proud to announce its busiest June on record, with just under 15,000 passengers travelling through the airport. There were 750 additional passengers last month than in June of last year, marking a milestone in regional travel and continued community growth.

“Increased passenger volumes reflect a strong return to travel, growing confidence in regional tourism, and the value of connecting Cranbrook and the Kootenays to the world via Western Canada’s hub airports,” says Tristen Chernove, CEO of Elevate Airports Inc. “This record-setting June tells a powerful story about how people are rediscovering the beauty and accessibility of flying from YXC.”

Adding to the excitement, Delightfull, YXC’s new on-site restaurant, has officially opened its doors—offering great breakfast and lunch selections and premium coffee to travelers and airport staff alike. The long-anticipated arrival of Delightfull has been warmly received as a vibrant and welcome addition to the terminal experience.

“The Canadian Rockies International Airport continues to demonstrate strong and consistent performance, now exceeding our pre-COVID passenger numbers. We’re incredibly fortunate to have such an important gateway right here in our city—connecting Cranbrook to the world with reliability and convenience.” added Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer for the City of Cranbrook “These milestones reflect the hard work of our team and the growing trust of travelers near and far. We look forward to continued growth and new opportunities for our region.

“We’re focused on more than just numbers,” adds Chernove. “We’re building a gateway that reflects the values of our region—hospitality, safety, and community care.”

What does it mean to make it? 

In Cranbrook, it means opportunity—real, tangible opportunity. It means room to grow, support systems that lift you up, and a city that’s not just open to new ideas, but actively investing in them. With the launch of our bold new economic development campaign—Make It in Cranbrook—we’re inviting business leaders, investors, creators, and families from near and far to reimagine what success looks like in a place where life and work are in harmony.

Make what? 

Make your business thrive. Make your home in a city that values lifestyle and ambition in equal measure. Make your family part of a community that looks out for one another. Make your future, your fortune, your legacy. Make your mark. Cranbrook offers everything driven individuals, global investors, and families need to truly make it—and we’re just getting started.

A Prime Landing Spot for Aerospace and Advanced Manufacturing

Cranbrook is quietly transforming into a launchpad for advanced industries. With direct access to key Western Canadian and U.S. markets, an International Airport, well-developed highways and rail on a historic supply chain route , and a skilled and growing talent pool, we are ideally positioned for companies in aerospace, clean energy, manufacturing, and beyond. Partnerships with neighboring provinces and states—including Alberta, British Columbia, and the Pacific Northwest—are driving forward a shared vision of a resilient cross-border supply chain, especially in sectors like aviation, defense, and energy. From fabrication to final assembly, the region is aligning around a smarter, more connected industrial future—and Cranbrook is at its center.

An Open Door for Foreign Direct Investment

For international investors, Cranbrook is more than just a great deal—it’s a strategic decision. We’ve modernized how business gets done, from streamlined permitting and development processes to infrastructure that’s ready for immediate investment. Our competitive tax environment, including targeted revitalization exemptions, makes it easier to launch or expand without unnecessary red tape or risk. We’re actively building relationships with visionary global partners—those who are ready to plant roots, generate long-term jobs, and help shape the next chapter of Cranbrook’s economy.

“Cranbrook is ready for business in every sense,” said Mayor Wayne Price. “With our new Official Community Plan, revitalization tax incentives, and a clear focus on industry attraction, we’re signaling to the world that Cranbrook is a place where you can build something real—and build it to last.”

A Place to Live, Work, and Thrive

But this isn’t just about balance sheets and business metrics. Make It in Cranbrook is about crafting a life that works. With four true seasons, a thriving arts and culture scene, endless access to outdoor recreation, and a tight-knit community of professionals and makers, Cranbrook offers a rare combination: a chance to succeed without sacrificing what matters most. It’s a city where morning meetings can be followed by afternoon hikes, and where ambition is matched by quality of life.

If you live in Cranbrook, you already know—the sound of skates carving ice and the roar of the crowd at Western Financial Place isn’t just background noise. It’s the rhythm of our community. The Cranbrook Bucks aren’t just a BCHL hockey team, they’re our team. They wear our colors, skate on our ice, and carry our hopes every time they hit the rink.

This is grassroots hockey at its finest. Behind the scenes, the Bucks organization employs over 80 part-time and 10 full-time staff, creating local jobs and building pride across the region. That’s folks running the concession stands, maintaining the ice, selling tickets, making sure the music plays when we score—all part of the experience that brings us together as a town.

And this isn’t just about sport. It’s about giving back. Over the past five years, the Bucks have raised more than $100,000 for the Rotary Club of Cranbrook, helping fund community programs, youth initiatives, and projects that make our city stronger. When you buy a ticket, you’re not just supporting a team—you’re investing in Cranbrook.

There’s nothing like live junior hockey. The energy in the arena, the passion of the players, the buzz when the puck drops—it hits different in person. You see the speed, the heart, the hustle. These young men are chasing dreams, and they leave it all on the ice every night.

Now’s the perfect time to be part of something special. The arena is buzzing, the team is fired up, and the energy is building game by game. Bring your friends, gather the family, and come feel the pulse of Cranbrook’s game day spirit. There’s nothing like being in the stands when the Bucks light the lamp.

Join the momentum. Join the Herd. This is more than hockey. It’s Cranbrook’s game