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Cranbrook, BC (April 13, 2026) – Cranbrook has recorded its strongest, single-quarter, and single year in building permit activity ever in the City’s history, totaling over $243 million year to date – a truly exceptional milestone. Last year the City had set an all-time record for permit values of just over $100 million for the full year. This year, the City is already almost 2.5 times that number after the first quarter of the year.

In a report to Council on Monday night, staff shared that building activity in Cranbrook is being driven by major growth across several sectors. Institutional projects lead the way with construction values reaching over $200 million, followed by strong gains in both multi-family and industrial development. Residential momentum is also increasing, with 148 new housing units approved by the end of February, putting 2026 well on pace to exceed 2025’s total and reinforcing Cranbrook’s continued growth.

Cranbrook continues to see strong and steady growth across many types of construction. The largest project in early 2026 is the F.W. Green Home, reflecting major investment in health and community services. New multi family housing projects are moving forward across the city, led by Crowne Pacific Development’s Wildstone community phase 1 and 2 apartment buildings totaling 252 units, along with a 102-unit townhouse development by KulKon Developments. Additional apartment projects are also underway on Victoria Avenue, Hurry Avenue, Cranbrook Street and within the downtown core, with all of these projects potentially adding hundreds of new doors. Industrial development also remains strong, including a new Finning facility next to Kal Tire, with new and expanded facilities creating jobs and supporting local economic activity. Looking ahead, the City expects continued momentum in residential, commercial, and industrial development throughout 2026.

“This data is exciting and shows there is strong, renewed interest in the development and growth of Cranbrook,” says Mike Matejka, Director of Engineering and Development Services. “While we are seeing plenty of applications and preliminary assessments, these tend to be quite fluid and plans can change. But even if most of these applications and projects get off the ground, it would be significant.”

“The significant growth in purpose built rental accommodations will address the greatest housing need identified in the Housing Needs Assessment for the City, providing more housing options in Cranbrook and relieving the tight rental market conditions for renters,” says Mayor Wayne Price.

You can review the 2024 Interim Housing Needs Report, and the 2023 Housing Needs Report on the City’s website.

The City is also seeing good interest in both the Downtown and Victoria Corridor Revitalization Tax Exemption Bylaw programs. These new bylaws adopted by Council in June 2025, offer property tax exemptions to property owners who invest in eligible new developments or improvements. These programs are designed to make it more attractive for developers and business owners to build or renovate, helping bring more residents, businesses, and activity to these areas.

To help support continued growth, the City invites interested parties to visit Choose Cranbrook and the City’s data portal to access key information, project ready data, and current development news at www.choosecranbrook.ca.