Introduction
One of Calgary’s newest and fastest growing neighbourhoods, Evanston is located north of Stoney Trail NW, which serves as the northwest segment of the city’s ring road. It stretches north to 144 Avenue NW and runs from Symonds Valley Road in the west to 14 Street NW in the east. There are still new developments planned or under construction as the city continues to expand.
Lifestyle
This suburban subdivision has seen rapid growth since development started in 2003. From 2010 to 2014, its population nearly doubled from 5,183 to 10,030, according to the city census. The overwhelming majority of newcomers are young couples and families who come for the easy access to shopping and plenty of park space for recreation. Residents here enjoy access to core amenities without having to drive too far.
The Vibe
A young community both in development and population, 27 per cent of Evanston residents is under the age of 14 (according to 2014 census figures). The community encourages social interaction through open green spaces and homes built with front verandas. Neighbours get to know one another as the open concept design calls for very few fences.
Meet the Neighbours
Young couples and new families account for Evanston’s rapid growth. There are some senior residents in the area, but the majority are younger families and couples. The suburban lifestyle offers family-oriented parks and recreation, and it’s not uncommon to see several families hanging out at the playground or having a party in the park.
In the Area
Nose Hill Park is just to the south of Evanston and, as one of the largest urban parks in North America, it offers plenty of opportunities for area residents to go hiking or explore nature. A quick trip down Stoney Trail to Deerfoot Trail will get you to CrossIron Mills Outlet Shopping Mall, which features 200 stores.
22.7 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The opening of Stoney Trail made the development of Evanston possible, as residents have much easier access to the rest of the city. Stoney Trail gets you to the international airport or the Trans-Canada Highway in just a couple of minutes. The downside of living this far from central Calgary is the lack of public transportation. Taking a bus can require a long journey from Evanston.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Evanston is one of the fastest growing communities in Calgary. In fact, it grew so fast that the city’s infrastructure couldn’t keep up. After initial plans for a 14 Street NW interchange at Stoney Trail fell through, the only access in and out of the neighbourhood was via Symons Valley Road. This has created headaches during the rush hour as traffic bottlenecks near the highway.
Dollars & Sense
While there are some luxury homes in Evanston, the community is built with the average family budget in mind. Local retail centres are filled with mostly typical, suburban family-style restaurants and retail shops like Boston Pizza and Dollarama. There are big-box retailers nearby and high-end stores for those who have a little more disposable income.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Creekside Shopping Centre
This walkable town centre-style shopping complex has a grocery store, several restaurants, and major retailers. Residents can also get their medical and dental services here. The 40-acre site features 371,000 square feet of retail space.
more infoGood Earth Café
This socially conscious coffee house features direct and ethical trade coffee that is not only environmentally friendly but unbelievably delicious. It offers a menu of healthy and wholesome delights made fresh in their kitchens daily.
more infoTaiyo Japanese Restaurant
This restaurant has a large selection of sushi and sashimi to choose from, in addition to full-service lunch and dinner menus for dining in or takeout. For dessert, try the green tea ice cream.
more infoEvanston Parks
There are three large parks in the heart of Evanston. Two of them are along Symons Valley Parkway and feature baseball diamonds, soccer fields, and paved pathways for enjoying the outdoors.
more infoNatural Wetlands
There are two gorgeous parks built around man-made ponds — one in the southwest and one in the east end. Paved paths wind around the ponds with benches to sit and enjoy the view.
more infoEvanston Creek
This creek winds along the west end of Evanston. The Creekside Shopping Centre is located nearby, and the creek also features paved pathways and green park space to create a peaceful setting.