Cochrane boom goes the small town

Cochrane’s growth is on the fast track, as new communities continue to sprout, and new infrastructure investments are being put in place try to keep pace with the needs the quick pace of growth brings.

A 2022 development summary report by the municipal government indicates that the Western Heritage town just west of Calgary grew by about 1,404 residents, or 4.4 per cent, in 2022. The population is estimated to be at 33,453.
Housing is trying to keep pace even as more residential communities come on, including Southbow Landing by Qualico Communities which just broke ground, and Greystone by Burnswest Properties just on the south edge of downtown that’s opening its first showhomes this September.

Even the more established communities continue to grow. Calbridge Development’s Fireside just released its latest phase with new laned and front-drive homes, and unveiled its Central Park. Heartland, now being developed by Rohit Land Development, is chugging right along; Rivercrest from Qualico and Slokker Communities is releasing its latest phase; while Sunset Ridge and Heritage Hills on the west side of town are that much closer to build out.

“We’re continuing to grow, and more people are attracted to Cochrane because of all that the town offers. Yet connectivity and keeping the small-town spirit remains as important to us as ever,” says Drew Hyndman, the Executive Director of Development & Infrastructure Services, for the Town of Cochrane.

Cochrane, just 20 minutes west of Calgary, has become a haven for new homebuyers, taking advantage of relatively lower land costs; its wonderful recreational amenities and opportunities; and its crystal-clear views of the Rockies from almost anywhere in town.

Growing responsibly

One of Cochrane’s challenges is continuing to create efficiencies by matching the investments it is making today with future needs and opportunities of the community.

As an example, The Station at Cochrane Crossing recently opened, a transit hub and service point that will allow residents to access amenities through COLT, the town’s local transit program, and expand their access to Calgary Universities and Downtown in partnership with On-it Regional Transit.

The Station at Cochrane Crossing is all about connection, from the pedestrian link from Historic Downtown to the Quarry, the open park space for everyone to enjoy, and the transit component, literally connecting people to our core, he adds.

The project includes a community plaza and at-grade rail crossing serving as a connection to Historic Downtown. Knowing the essential role for Cochrane will play in the future of the Rail connection from the Calgary International Airport to Banff, the Station invites the future development of a train platform for regional train service, bringing commuters to and from work or visitors to enjoy historic downtown Cochrane and connect to other local amenities.”
The town is also in the midst of improving the Highway 1A corridor through Cochrane, with construction of a new interchange along Highway 22 set to be completed by 2025. This wil enhance the town’s accessibility and smoothen traffic flow.

“The Station, which also houses the Cochrane information centre, is just one way we are improving connectivity not just for people visiting the town but for our residents, as well, as they can easily get information on what’s happening in town,” Hyndman tells Calgary New Home + Condo Guide.

New communities

Southbow Landing broke ground in July this year and will be the biggest development by Qualico Communities Calgary in Cochrane.. Located at the corner of Highway 22 and James Walker Trail, Southbow Landing will be over 540 acres (220 hectares), the community will be built out in 15 phases, and will house roughly 3000 homes and 7,000+ residents upon completion.

Greystone, meanwhile, will be opening four new showhomes on September 23, 2023, says Josh Hagen, vice-president of development for Burnswest Properties, which he says, “marks a significant milestone for all the partners and the developer.”

Western lifestyle

Cochrane’s Main Street in the downtown is perhaps its most famous landmark, but for those unfamiliar with it, there is more to enjoy in this Western Heritage town than just McKay’s ice cream. There’s a vast array of charming local shops along Main Street, that is a quaint throwback to the town’s pioneering history.

Cochrane is even getting a reputation as a foodie destination, Hyndman says. “We have new Nepalese, Indian and Mexican restaurants in town, which signifies the cultural growth and diversity that we are also enjoying,”

A close connection to nature is a big draw to Cochrane, and one of its most beloved landmarks, the Glenbow Ranch, provides just that. It has 3,200 acres of native fescue grassland and is also an active cattle ranch. Enjoy stunning vistas, rolling hills, and spot the occasional cowboy as you explore nearly 40 kms of paved and shale path.

Spray Lakes Sawmills Family Sports Centre is one of Cochrane’s partners in providing recreation to residents. Facility amenities include an aquatic, climbing, and fitness centre, indoor turf and track and multiple ice surfaces for organized and recreational skating, hockey, and curling.

The town never loses sight of its small-town beginnings and various community events serve to strengthen the bond. These include annual local events like the Outhouse Races, Rodeo and Labour Day parade, Bull Riding, Food Fest, Fair, Cochrane Classic Car Show, Oktober Fest, and Christmas Light Up.