Growing communities: Cranbrook and Kimberley see upward tick in housing and development projects

In challenging times, commercial and housing developments have seen healthy and consistent growth in the East Kootenays.

by Julie Matchett — February 07, 2022

The renovation of the aging and derelict Armond Theatre in downtown Cranbrook is part of the community's efforts towards revitalization. — Kerry Shellborn photo

There’s no doubt that times have been challenging, but communities across the East Kootenay region have seen steady growth and upward trends when it comes to new building projects and developments.

With changing demographic patterns and more people moving into the region comes the need for housing. The City of Cranbrook recently reported that new construction permits for single-family homes in 2021 were valued at $30.97 million compared to $17.54 million in 2020. As well, staff have fielded some exciting queries for projects slated to start in 2022. The situation is similar in neighbouring Kimberley, with several new projects and housing developments on the go.

Check out our list of the top commercial and residential developments currently underway in the region, including at least two planned craft and micro breweries.

Continuing renovation of Armond Theatre in downtown Cranbrook:

The renovation of the Armond Theatre is a labour of love for Ferdy Belland, Casey Wright and Spencer Kerr, the trio behind the extensive restoration of the former derelict space on 10th Avenue.

Since acquiring the old theatre in January 2020, the team has vaulted over two major hurdles in their way: the completion of a commercial hazardous materials abatement in March of 2021 and the installation of four 4,700-pound steel beams required to upgrade the roof.

Next on the agenda are upgrades to the aging electrical and HVAC system, along with what Belland refers to as “the fun stuff”—the installation of a hardwood dance floor and a $250,000-sound system as well as restorations to the mezzanine, bar areas and lobby. Belland is hopeful that this old-but-new multi-purpose arts venue will be open to the community by the summer of 2023.

Exterior of Juniper Lanes Bowling Alley.

Redevelopment of Juniper Lanes Bowling Alley - Cranbrook

Part of Cranbrook’s downtown development renaissance, the renovations at the former Juniper Lanes Bowling Alley have created a local buzz. Business partners, friends and brothers-in-law Jesse Roberts and Fred Williams purchased the property. They are the same duo behind the redevelopment of the old fire hall into the popular Fire Hall Kitchen & Tap restaurant. The new vision for the Juniper Lanes property includes a craft brewery and pub kitchen. Recognizing the long-standing part the bowling alley has played in the community, there are also plans to preserve eight of the original 16 bowling lanes.

An artist’s rendering of the proposed new apartment building located on 4th Street North, behind the Save-On Foods complex.

Proposed apartment buildings - Cranbrook

There are a couple of new apartment developments on the horizon in the Key City. The developer behind the proposals, WestUrban Developments, specializes in construction management and development planning across Western Canada.

Both proposed developments will include the construction of multi-storey apartment buildings, made up of family-friendly studio, one- and two-bedroom suites. Cranbrook City Council has approved the permits for both projects, located at 1716 - 4th Street North—behind the Save-On-Foods complex—and at 1001 - 10th Street North. Construction will likely start in the spring, with an anticipated move-in date for tenancy sometime in the summer of 2023.

Proposed craft brewery/distillery - Baker Street, Cranbrook:

A proposed two-storey building that will house a pub, kitchen and microbrewery has been proposed for the currently vacant lots beside Cranbrook Photo on Baker Street. The second floor of the building would contain commercial space and a two-bedroom apartment. A Zoning Amendment Bylaw for the proposed development is currently being considered by Cranbrook City Council.

Rockyview Place is one of Cranbrook's new townhouse and apartment complexes, located on Innes Avenue near Elizabeth Lake.

Rockyview Place - Broadstreet Properties, Cranbrook:

Located near Elizabeth Lake on Innes Avenue, Rockyview Place is a complex of apartment and townhouse buildings. Made up of one-, two- and three-bedroom pet-and-family-friendly suites, the complex also features a playground, community garden, dog run, dog wash and on-site maintenance. The complex, operated by real estate management company Broadstreet Properties, officially opened to tenants in the summer of 2021.

20-unit townhouse development - Fernie Street, Kimberley:

A five-building, 20-unit townhouse complex proposed for Fernie Street in Kimberley has passed the necessary zoning amendments. The previous zoning for the property allowed for 16 units. The developer is Lois Creek Developments, and the complex will consist of both rentals and units for sale.

New subdivisions opening up in Forest Crowne and Marysville Views, Kimberley:

Only a 10-minute drive from Kimberley's vibrant downtown core, Forest Crowne has gorgeous lots available for development and is currently selling cottages and custom home sites.

Marysville Views is an exclusive residential development located six kilometres from Kimberley in the community of Marysville.

Both developments have new subdivisions and custom home sites opening up, which are already selling quickly.