Getting to Know Our Ward: Neighbourhood by Neighbourhood

As someone who mainly walks and takes the bus to get around, I get to see our city block by block, street by street, sidewalk by sidewalk.

Since launching my campaign for city council in Ward sipiwiyiniwak, I’ve been revisiting every neighbourhood to meet with residents, understand local concerns, and talk about how we can build a city that works better for everyone.

Ward sipiwiyiniwak is home to over 30 neighbourhoods, each with its own unique history, community vibe, and layout. Whether you're new to the area or a long-time resident, it’s easy to lose track of just how many communities are part of our ward—and how different they are in design, population, and priorities. But those differences are part of what makes this ward special. So I thought I’d share a few interesting facts I’ve learned (or re-learned!) as I go door to door.

Let’s start in the southeast corner of the ward, where some of the oldest neighbourhoods are located. Jasper Park, Sherwood, and Meadowlark Park were all part of the former Town of Jasper Place before it was annexed by Edmonton in the 1960s. These areas were built in the postwar era and feature a mix of bungalows, mature trees, and tight-knit streets where many residents have lived for decades. Elmwood, next door, developed around the same time, and its location near the Misericordia Hospital and West Edmonton Mall makes it feel like a hub for health care and shopping.

Head a little west and you’ll reach Lynnwood, Laurier Heights, and Parkview—neighbourhoods known for their scenic views, quiet residential streets, and access to the river valley. These areas are home to many long-time residents, with a large proportion of folks aged 50 and up. Quesnell Heights, tucked away on the edge of the valley, is one of Edmonton’s smallest neighbourhoods, made up entirely of single-family homes.

Going northwest, Callingwood North and Callingwood South are more diverse in terms of housing types and demographics, with lots of apartment buildings and row housing. These are some of the more affordable areas in the ward and have a high number of young singles and couples. They’re also home to the Marketplace at Callingwood, the rec centre, and great walking trails.

Neighbourhoods like Lymburn, Ormsby Place, Jamieson Place, and Dechene are classic examples of 1980s suburban design—curved streets, cul-de-sacs, and plenty of single-detached homes. These are areas where many families put down roots, and where kids can still be seen biking to school or playing in the parks. Gariepy, Patricia Heights, and Rio Terrace hug the river valley and are known for their natural beauty and quiet streets.

Further west, we start to see more recently developed neighbourhoods like Glastonbury, Granville, The Hamptons, and Edgemont. These areas were primarily built in the late 1990s and 2000s, often with a mix of housing types and master-planned communities that include storm ponds, walking paths, and centralized green spaces. Stillwater, River’s Edge, and Riverview Area are newer still—with development continuing as Edmonton grows westward.

Cameron Heights, Donsdale, Wedgewood Heights, and Oleskiw are some of the ward’s most scenic neighbourhoods, located right along the North Saskatchewan River. These areas feature large lots, ravine views, and access to some of Edmonton’s most beautiful natural spaces. They're also home to many of the city’s long-standing professionals and retirees.

Then there’s Thorncliff and Summerlea, which stand out for their density and amenities. Thorncliff was designed to limit urban sprawl and includes a significant number of multi-unit dwellings, while Summerlea is best known as the location of West Edmonton Mall—a commercial powerhouse in our city and one of the most recognizable landmarks on the west end.

What ties all these communities together is a desire for good services, safe neighbourhoods, and a city that listens to their needs. But the way those needs show up—from infrastructure upgrades to school access, to housing options, to bus routes—can vary a lot depending on the neighbourhood.

As a candidate who lives, works, and moves through the ward on foot and on transit, I don’t just see the big picture—I feel it in my legs and feet! Every cracked sidewalk, every missing bench, every friendly conversation at a community event helps inform how I advocate for our communities.

When you vote for a councillor, you’re not just voting for someone to make decisions downtown—you’re choosing someone who understands what life is really like in your part of the city.

I’d love to hear from you.

Want to give input on the campaign platform and share concerns about our neighbourhood? Fill out our survey here!