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Cranbrook’s cultural scene is taking center stage, and leading the charge is Ed Fest—a vibrant, two-day celebration that aspires to become one of the city’s most defining annual events. Held each September at Rotary Park, Ed Fest blends art, music, and storytelling into an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike. But this isn’t just a fun weekend in the park. Ed Fest is a strategic expression of Cranbrook’s bold vision for tourism, economic development, and community identity.

With support from the City of Cranbrook, Ed Fest has grown from a grassroots idea into a signature event aligned with the Tourism Master Plan’s commitment to create iconic, community-driven festivals. It’s a clear example of how cultural investment—backed by thoughtful planning—can activate public spaces and enhance Cranbrook’s appeal as a place to live, visit, and do business.

More Than Just a Festival

Ed Fest is a platform for community connection, artistic expression, and cultural storytelling. Held each September at Rotary Park, the free, two-day event brings together locals and visitors while supporting nearby businesses. It also helps advance goals of the Tourism Master Plan: inclusive programming, better use of public spaces, and a stronger civic identity.

Rooted in Local Legend

In 1926, an elephant named Ed escaped from the Sells-Floto Circus and roamed the area for over a month before being captured near Jim Smith Lake. His unexpected adventure turned him into a local legend. That story lives on as a life-sized Ed puppet leads a cheerful downtown “stampede,” with attendees invited to wear carnival-themed costumes—a playful tribute to Cranbrook’s past.

A Stage for Creative Energy

This year’s lineup features Leonard Sumner, Souls in Rhythm, Derina Harvey Band, and Tonye Aganaba, alongside circus acts, art installations, a lantern parade, and food trucks.

A community showcase stage highlights local performers, while art workshops and a competition hosted by Cranbrook Arts invite hands-on participation. An artisan market, organized with the Cranbrook Farmer’s Market, spotlights local makers and small businesses.

Open to Everyone

As a free public event, Ed Fest removes financial barriers and encourages participation across all ages and abilities. Its inclusive design ensures a welcoming experience for families, seniors, and newcomers alike. This approach supports community well-being and reinforces pride in Cranbrook’s identity.

A Cultural Event with Long-Term Value

Ed Fest draws people downtown, supports tourism, and adds energy to the local economy—reinforcing Cranbrook’s role as the cultural heart of the East Kootenays.

With aspirations to grow into a multi-day festival, it shows how creative, community-led events can evolve into defining assets. By backing Ed Fest, the City is helping shape a future that’s vibrant, connected, and full of possibility.

The Canadian Rockies International Airport (YXC) is flying higher than ever! Starting this May, we’re cranking up the air service with more flights, more seats, and way more reasons to pack your bags. Compared to last year, WestJet and Air Canada are rolling out three extra Q400 flights per week each—that’s a whopping 48,000 more seats annually jetting in and out of the East Kootenay region.

That’s right—24,000 extra seats per airline in 2025. Whether you’re chasing powder, sealing deals, or visiting family, YXC is officially your upgraded launchpad to wherever-you-need-to-be.

“We’re thrilled to see this level of investment and commitment from both WestJet and Air Canada,” says Tristen Chernove, Airport Manager at YXC. “These added flights not only increase convenience and flexibility for our passengers, but they also support the region’s economic development, tourism, and accessibility.”

So what are you waiting for? With more flights and better connections, the sky is quite literally the limit. Book early, travel easy, and let YXC take you where you want to go—faster, smoother, and with a window seat.

In a forward-thinking move that reinforces Cranbrook’s commitment to sustainable growth, the City of Cranbrook has received $10,000 in funding from the Province of British Columbia’s Local Government Infrastructure Planning Grant Program. This investment will support infrastructure condition assessments critical to effective capital planning — ensuring that future development in Cranbrook is not only robust, but also responsive to community needs.

Laying the Groundwork for Growth

This funding enables City staff to collect detailed data on the condition of parks, water systems, and sewer infrastructure. Why does this matter? Because quality infrastructure isn’t just about pipes and pavement — it’s the foundation of economic vitality.

These assessments will inform a prioritized list of infrastructure upgrades, targeting assets that need attention now while setting the stage for preventative maintenance and long-term capital planning.

What This Means for Cranbrook’s Economy

For businesses and developers, this initiative represents more than just municipal housekeeping. It signals a city that is:

• Actively planning for population growth and business expansion
• Minimizing future service disruptions by maintaining core systems now
• Creating a predictable and stable environment for investment and development

Reliable infrastructure is a top factor when businesses consider relocating. Cranbrook is showing that it understands the assignment — building smarter today, so growth tomorrow is both sustainable and seamless.

A Strategic Partnership with the Province

This project is also part of a larger provincial effort to ensure BC communities are built for the future. The Infrastructure Planning Grant Program helps local governments strengthen their infrastructure systems while supporting public health, environmental stewardship, and economic resilience.

By aligning local projects with provincial priorities, Cranbrook is reinforcing its reputation as a collaborative and visionary community, well-positioned for future partnerships and funding opportunities.

Forward Together

As Cranbrook continues to grow, investments like this — while small in scale — play an outsized role in shaping the city’s trajectory. From attracting skilled professionals and families to giving entrepreneurs confidence in municipal services, smart infrastructure planning is key to unlocking Cranbrook’s full potential.

With foresight, data, and dedication, Cranbrook is planning today for a stronger tomorrow — and inviting new people and businesses to grow alongside it.

For more information about the Infrastructure Planning Grant Program, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/local-governments/grants-transfers/grants/infrastructure-planning-grant-program.

Understanding the OCP: What It Means for Cranbrook’s Future

Cranbrook’s Official Community Plan (OCP) – Our Path to 2042 is more than just a document—it’s a roadmap for the city’s future growth, development, and sustainability. Adopted in January 2025, the OCP will guide Cranbrook’s evolution over the next two decades, shaping housing, transportation, business development, and environmental policies.

While the city has celebrated the adoption of the OCP, many residents, businesses, and investors may be wondering: what does this plan actually mean for Cranbrook, and how does it affect them? This guide breaks down the OCP’s key goals and its impact on the economy, housing, infrastructure, and overall quality of life.

What is the Official Community Plan (OCP)?

The OCP serves as Cranbrook’s long-term vision for growth, setting a framework for:

• Land use and development – Where and how future construction will happen.
• Economic expansion – Policies to support businesses and attract investment.
• Transportation and infrastructure – Plans for roads, transit, and connectivity.
• Sustainability – Green development and climate resilience initiatives.

By setting clear policies, the OCP ensures future projects align with the needs of Cranbrook’s growing population and economy.

How the OCP Impacts Residents and Businesses:

Housing and Growth Management

The OCP prioritizes affordable and diverse housing options through:

• Infill development – Maximizing land use in already-developed areas.
• A mix of housing types – Expanding townhomes, apartments, and secondary suites.
• Streamlined approvals – Reducing regulatory barriers to encourage private investment.
• Sustainable building – Ensuring developments align with climate goals.

For residents, this means more choices and improved affordability. For developers and investors, it provides clear guidelines on where and how housing can be built.

Business and Economic Development

The OCP supports Cranbrook’s economy by:

• Expanding employment lands to attract new businesses.
• Strengthening downtown revitalization to increase commercial activity.
• Encouraging mixed-use developments that integrate housing and business.
• Enhancing tourism and cultural spaces to boost visitor spending.

For businesses, this means greater opportunities for expansion, improved infrastructure, and a growing local customer base.

Transportation and Infrastructure

The OCP’s long-term transportation strategies focus on:

• Expanding public transit to support a growing population.
• Improving pedestrian and cycling infrastructure.
• Upgrading roads and utilities for new developments.
• Reducing congestion through smart land use planning.

For residents, this means more efficient and sustainable transportation options. For businesses, it ensures strong infrastructure to support economic growth.

Sustainability and Green Development

Cranbrook’s future growth prioritizes environmental sustainability through:

• Energy-efficient developments and greener building practices.
• Stronger environmental protections for natural areas.
• Improved waste management and water conservation.
• Expansion of parks, trails, and recreation spaces.

For residents and businesses, this means a cleaner, more resilient Cranbrook built for long-term success.

Why the OCP Matters for Cranbrook’s Future

The OCP is more than a vision—it’s a plan of action that will shape Cranbrook’s growth for decades. It provides clear direction for businesses, investors, and residents, ensuring development happens in a thoughtful, sustainable, and economically beneficial way.

For businesses, the OCP signals strong investment in economic expansion and infrastructure. For residents, it promises a well-planned community with diverse housing, better transportation, and a high quality of life.

As Cranbrook moves forward, this plan will serve as the foundation for continued growth and success, reinforcing the city’s position as a vibrant and competitive destination.

Cranbrook is taking proactive steps to address housing affordability and diversity, ensuring the city remains an attractive place to live, work, and invest. As demand for housing continues to grow, the city has implemented strategies that support population growth, workforce retention, and sustainable development while also positioning Cranbrook as a leader in responsive urban planning.

Recent initiatives, including the BC Builds housing development proposal and housing-focused 2025 budget discussions, demonstrate Cranbrook’s commitment to expanding housing options in a way that benefits both residents and businesses.

Expanding Housing Options Through BC Builds

In January 2025, Cranbrook issued a call for development proposals for a new housing project in the downtown core. This initiative is part of BC Builds, a provincial program focused on accelerating housing construction in high-demand areas. By leveraging underdeveloped downtown land, this project aims to increase housing supply and affordability while also enhancing the vibrancy of Cranbrook’s urban center.

The city is seeking developers who can integrate diverse housing options, including:

• Affordable rental units for workers, young professionals, and families
• Mixed-use developments that incorporate commercial space alongside residential housing
• Higher-density housing solutions, such as townhomes and multi-unit buildings, to maximize land use efficiently

This approach aligns with economic development priorities by ensuring that Cranbrook remains accessible for workers, business owners, and new residents, supporting the local labor market and economic growth.

Strategic Infrastructure Investments to Support Growth

As part of its 2025 budget planning, Cranbrook has actively sought public input on housing needs, identifying affordability as a top priority for the community. To ensure sustainable expansion, the city is considering infrastructure investments that will:

• Improve water, sewer, and road networks to accommodate new residential developments
• Streamline permitting and zoning processes to reduce barriers for housing construction
• Balance development costs to maintain affordability while supporting long-term growth

These infrastructure upgrades are essential for attracting new businesses and industries by ensuring the city has sufficient housing supply for employees. A well-planned housing strategy helps prevent labor shortages and makes Cranbrook more competitive in retaining and attracting skilled workers.

Guiding Housing Policy Through the Official Community Plan

The newly adopted Official Community Plan (OCP) – Our Path to Cranbrook 2042 serves as a blueprint for long-term housing and development goals. The plan prioritizes:

• Infill development, encouraging higher-density housing near key employment centers and transit routes
• A mix of housing types, including townhouses, rental apartments, and secondary suites, to cater to a broad demographic
• Sustainable housing policies, focusing on energy-efficient buildings and climate-resilient designs
• Reducing regulatory barriers to streamline the approval process for developers and encourage private-sector investment

By fostering a balanced and accessible housing market, these policies directly contribute to economic stability, making Cranbrook a destination for businesses looking to establish or expand operations.

A Growing City with a Future-Ready Housing Plan

Cranbrook’s approach to housing isn’t just about increasing supply—it’s about creating a well-planned, sustainable community that supports long-term economic success. By combining strategic land use, infrastructure investment, and forward-thinking policies, the city is ensuring that both residents and businesses have the stability they need to thrive.

As housing demand continues to rise, initiatives like BC Builds and the OCP’s housing framework will help Cranbrook stay ahead, making it a prime location for investors, employers, and new residents seeking a high quality of life and economic opportunity.

Cranbrook is gaining recognition as a leader in sustainability, earning acknowledgment from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) and Local Governments for Sustainability Canada (ICLEI) for its ongoing efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and implement climate mitigation strategies.

This recognition reflects years of investment in smart infrastructure, transportation, and environmental initiatives—making Cranbrook not only a greener place to live but also a stronger place to do business. As sustainability becomes a priority for industries across Canada, Cranbrook’s leadership in this area is also an economic advantage, attracting businesses looking for cost-effective, energy-efficient locations.

Building a More Sustainable Cranbrook

Cranbrook’s commitment to sustainability isn’t just about reducing emissions—it’s about creating a community where businesses and residents can thrive. By focusing on practical, high-impact initiatives, the city is ensuring its long-term resilience while supporting economic growth.

Here are some of the key programs driving change:

• Active Transportation & Transit Expansion – Improved biking and walking infrastructure, along with a regional transit study, is making sustainable commuting easier. By investing in alternative transportation, Cranbrook is also reducing congestion and improving accessibility, making it easier for workers to get to local businesses efficiently.
• E-Scooter Pilot Program – Offering new mobility options that help reduce vehicle congestion and emissions.
• Water Conservation Initiatives – Encouraging efficient water use among homes and businesses to ensure sustainability in the face of climate challenges. With industries and commercial spaces requiring reliable infrastructure, sustainable water management helps future-proof Cranbrook’s ability to support business expansion.
• City Fleet Electrification & Energy Upgrades – Transitioning city-owned vehicles to electric alternatives and upgrading HVAC systems in public buildings to cut energy waste. Reducing operational costs for city services ensures taxpayer dollars are spent more efficiently, benefiting both businesses and residents.
• FireSmart & Wildfire Mitigation Efforts – Investing in programs that protect Cranbrook’s environment and infrastructure from climate-related risks. Proactive wildfire mitigation not only protects residential areas but also ensures the security of commercial districts and investment properties.

Why It Matters for Cranbrook’s Future

These initiatives position Cranbrook as a leader in responsible, forward-thinking development. By investing in clean infrastructure and energy efficiency, the city is strengthening its appeal to businesses looking for cost-effective, sustainable locations, investors interested in future-ready communities with long-term growth potential, and skilled professionals who prioritize environmental responsibility when choosing where to live and work.

Cranbrook’s recognition for climate leadership isn’t just an environmental win—it’s a sign of a city that’s planning ahead, balancing growth with sustainability, and building a competitive, resilient economy. With sustainability now a key factor in corporate decision-making, Cranbrook’s ongoing investment in green initiatives reinforces its reputation as a community ready to support business success while protecting its natural surroundings.

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’s commitment to enhancing parks, recreation, and cultural spaces is not just about improving quality of life—it is a strategic investment in the city’s economic future. As businesses and workers increasingly prioritize livability when choosing where to relocate, the city’s focus on recreational infrastructure and cultural assets is positioning Cranbrook as a competitive and attractive place to live, work, and invest.

With the adoption of the Official Community Plan (OCP) – Our Path to Cranbrook 2042, alongside discussions at the 2024 Regional Economic Summit, the city has reinforced the role of recreation and cultural development in driving economic growth.

Recreation and Culture as Economic Drivers

The OCP outlines a long-term vision that integrates parks and cultural spaces into Cranbrook’s economic development strategy. The plan emphasizes the expansion and improvement of recreational amenities to support both residents and visitors, recognizing that high-quality outdoor and cultural experiences contribute to economic vitality.

Some of the key priorities include:

• Enhancing public park infrastructure to increase accessibility and usability for all residents
• Expanding event-based tourism by developing venues that can host outdoor festivals, concerts, and sporting events
• Supporting private investment in cultural and recreational spaces to encourage business partnerships
• Increasing trail connectivity to integrate outdoor recreation with local businesses, creating economic opportunities

By leveraging these initiatives, Cranbrook is fostering a diverse economy that benefits from tourism, local business expansion, and increased workforce attraction.

Public and Private Partnerships for Growth

At the 2024 Regional Economic Summit, local leaders discussed the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing Cranbrook’s parks and recreation strategy. These collaborations are essential for funding and maintaining large-scale projects while ensuring sustainable economic returns.

Several key takeaways emerged from the summit:

• Businesses see investment in recreation as an asset for workforce retention and attraction, as skilled professionals often prioritize access to outdoor amenities when choosing where to live
• Event-based tourism is a high-growth opportunity, with plans to expand Cranbrook’s capacity for hosting regional and national-level sports tournaments, music festivals, and cultural events
• Recreation infrastructure can drive business development, especially in sectors like hospitality, retail, and outdoor adventure tourism

By investing in these partnerships, the city is positioning itself as a leader in recreation-based economic development, ensuring that Cranbrook remains competitive in attracting talent and new business opportunities.

A Future-Ready Investment in Cranbrook’s Identity

Cranbrook’s parks, trails, and cultural assets are more than just community amenities—they are key components of an economic growth strategy that supports business development, tourism, and workforce retention. The city’s continued investment in recreation and cultural spaces is reinforcing its reputation as a vibrant and future-ready community.

With ongoing initiatives guided by the OCP and insights from the Regional Economic Summit, Cranbrook is ensuring that economic growth and quality of life go hand in hand, making it an increasingly attractive destination for investors, businesses, and residents alike.

Cranbrook is committed to creating a cleaner, greener future through its commitment to Active Transportation improvements and network expansion, a vital step toward building a more sustainable community. By expanding walking, cycling, and other non-motorized travel options, Cranbrook is empowering residents to make environmentally friendly choices every day. These efforts not only reduce emissions but also showcase Cranbrook’s dedication to sustainable growth—an attractive quality for families, businesses, and investors looking for a city that values environmental responsibility.

Cutting Down Carbon Emissions for a Healthier Environment

Transportation is one of the largest contributors to carbon emissions, and Cranbrook’s Active Transportation Plan addresses this by making low-impact travel options more accessible across the city. With safe, well-planned routes, Cranbrook is helping residents reduce vehicle use, lessening the city’s overall carbon footprint. These incremental shifts make a significant difference, allowing Cranbrook to work towards ambitious environmental goals while enhancing the quality of life for everyone.

Creating Green Spaces and Cleaner Air

The emphasis on active transportation contributes to cleaner air for all of Cranbrook’s residents. By promoting options that don’t rely on fuel-powered vehicles, the city can work toward reducing air pollution, which directly impacts community health and wellbeing. Additionally, by prioritizing green transportation, Cranbrook is also preserving and enhancing local green spaces, giving residents more opportunities to connect with nature as they move around the city.

Supporting a Sustainable Urban Design

Cranbrook’s commitment to sustainable transportation is about more than convenience; it’s about shaping a city that balances growth with environmental stewardship. By investing in pathways and cycle-friendly streets, Cranbrook encourages compact, sustainable urban development that limits sprawl and optimizes resources. This approach is crucial for building a city that remains accessible, green, and vibrant as it expands—ensuring a future that appeals to both residents and businesses drawn to Cranbrook’s sustainable outlook.

Leading by Example in Environmental Responsibility

As more cities recognize the need for environmental responsibility, Cranbrook’s Active Transportation Plan positions the city as a model for sustainable, community-focused development. Cranbrook’s investment in green transportation not only benefits today’s residents but also demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that aligns with the values of tomorrow’s families and businesses. By supporting choices that have a smaller environmental impact, Cranbrook strengthens its reputation as a city where people and nature can thrive together.

Cranbrook, BC – February 3rd, 2025– Choose Cranbrook is proud to release the latest installment in its Investment Attraction video series, titled We Are Cranbrook. This new video highlights the exceptional quality of life that residents enjoy, reinforcing Cranbrook’s position as an ideal destination for business investment and relocation.

As British Columbia’s sunniest City, Cranbrook offers a great lifestyle enriched by our downtown, outdoor recreation, a thriving arts and culture scene, and top-tier sports and leisure facilities. Shot over the course of 2024, We Are Cranbrook captures the city’s unique charm through its most iconic locations and events:

• Downtown Cranbrook: Showcasing Baker Street and Cranbrook Tourism’s visitor hub, where local businesses welcome all.
• Outdoor Recreation: Featuring the scenic Elizabeth Lake, Community Forest, and Rails to Trails, highlighting the city’s commitment to active living.
• Arts & Culture: Celebrating local events like EdFest and Rock the Kootenays, which bring music, creativity, and community spirit to the region.
• Sports & Leisure: Highlighting key facilities such as Western Financial Place, the Cranbrook Bucks hockey team and the Aquatic Centre.
• Quality of Life: A business hub and a family-friendly atmosphere make Cranbrook a top choice for entrepreneurs and residents alike.

“We want investors, businesses, and families to see what makes Cranbrook a special place to live and work,” said Darren Brewer, Economic Development Officer at the City of Cranbrook. “This video showcases not only the natural beauty of our surroundings but also the energy, culture, and opportunity that define our community.”

The City extends its gratitude to the volunteers and community members who contributed their time and enthusiasm to bring this project to life. Their participation underscores the strong sense of pride and collaboration that makes Cranbrook such a dynamic place to call home.

We Are Cranbrook is now available for viewing on the City’s Economic Development  website www.choosecranbrook.ca  and YouTube channel We Are Cranbrook