This Alberta town has mountains on one side, Calgary on the other — and some big growing pains

Nestled in a picturesque river valley at the base of the Rocky Mountains lies the charming town of Cochrane, Alberta. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty and conveniently located just a short drive from Banff National Park and Calgary, Cochrane has seen a remarkable transformation in recent years, becoming the fastest-growing community in Canada’s fastest-growing province.

Gord Davies, a longtime resident of Cochrane, has witnessed the town’s evolution over more than 75 years. His childhood home, which once served as the town’s first hospital in the early 1900s, now houses the Cochrane Historical Museum. Reflecting on the town’s past and future, Davies recalls a time when Cochrane was a small community of only 400 people, where children had free rein to explore and play.

Today, Cochrane is a bustling municipality with nearly 40,000 residents. The town’s population has nearly doubled in size over the past decade, and according to projections, it could exceed 90,000 residents by 2050. The town’s appeal lies in its stunning natural surroundings, with the Rocky Mountains in the distance and the tranquil river valley below. Additionally, Cochrane’s proximity to Calgary makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between urban amenities and natural beauty.

Lauren Lord, a recent transplant from Toronto, was drawn to Cochrane for its outdoor recreational opportunities and affordable housing. Compared to her previous home in Toronto, Lord now enjoys a larger living space at a more affordable cost. Despite the town’s many attractions, the influx of new residents has placed a strain on Cochrane’s infrastructure, particularly in terms of traffic congestion.

Mayor Jeff Genung acknowledges the challenges that come with rapid growth, including overcrowded classrooms, congested highways, and a lack of essential services. A major roadworks project is currently underway to address some of these issues, but more funding is needed to support the town’s growing needs. The Alberta government’s new infrastructure funding model has provided some relief, but Mayor Genung emphasizes the importance of being transparent about the costs associated with accommodating growth.

Despite the challenges, both Mayor Genung and Gord Davies remain optimistic about Cochrane’s future. With ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and meet the needs of a growing population, Cochrane continues to attract new residents seeking a high quality of life in a beautiful natural setting. As Cochrane navigates the complexities of growth, the town remains committed to preserving its unique charm and western heritage for generations to come.