Understanding Growth Nodes: Shaping the Future of Our Urban Centres
Municipal Development Plan – For the Community, By the Community
In this edition of the Planning Nook, we’re taking a closer look at growth nodes—a key idea in how our community plans for future development. Growth nodes are specific areas where new housing, businesses, and public spaces are encouraged to grow together in a walkable, well-connected environment. This approach helps us manage growth while keeping the unique character of each urban centre in Crowsnest Pass.
Coleman: Where Artistry Flourishes
Did you know? Coleman covers the largest area in the Municipality, but it’s only the second most populated urban centre.
Growth Vision for Coleman
Coleman may grow by over 5,000 new residents through development concentrated in growth nodes. These plans include:
- Realigning Highway 3 and redeveloping 20th Avenue as a commercial corridor
- Preserving downtown as a hub for artisans and local culture
- Strengthening neighbourhood identity with thoughtful land use
Planned Actions
- Improve walkability to downtown
- Add new park space
- Protect the Coleman National Historic Site
growth node
noun
A pedestrian friendly area designated for focused urban growth that supports high-density, mixed-use development.
Blairmore: Where Business Thrives
Blairmore has physical limits to its expansion, but still has room for an additional 900 residents. Growth will focus on:
- Transitioning West 20th Avenue into a mixed commercial and residential corridor
- Establishing 129th Street as a key gateway into the community
- Redeveloping the old hospital site and Gazebo Park
Frank: Where Storytelling Lives On
Growth in Frank is limited due to natural constraints and the future twinning of Highway 3. However, it will continue to thrive through its strong identity and cultural value.
Bellevue: Where History Comes Alive
Bellevue’s spacious setting makes it a promising area for growth—up to 1,200 new residents. Future development plans include:
- Improving the downtown corridor
- Transitioning Dairy Road Park into higher-density residential
- Redeveloping the MDM Centre lands
- Considering a new business park
- Increasing local recreation areas
Hillcrest: Where Relaxation Abounds
Hillcrest’s peaceful setting offers potential for up to 1,100 new residents, with growth supported by:
- Creating a small commercial hub on 8th Avenue
- Expanding local sports fields into a larger recreation space
Stay tuned for more Planning Nook insights as we continue exploring how growth nodes are guiding the future of our community—creating vibrant, connected, and resilient neighbourhoods across Crowsnest Pass.
Next week on Planning Nook: We’ll take a closer look at how the Municipal Development Plan supports a wider range of housing options to meet the needs of current and future residents. From smaller homes and townhouses to multi-unit buildings and seniors’ housing, we’ll explore how thoughtful planning around urban density helps ensure our communities remain inclusive, livable, and ready for growth—without losing their small-town charm.