Cranbrook Development Surges as High-Density Projects Gain Momentum
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.