Introduction
On the northwest edge of Edmonton lies the residential neighbourhood of Oxford. The community stretches from 167 Avenue south to 153 Avenue, and 127 Street to 133 Street where it shares a border with the neighbourhood of Carlton. Boasting a seasonal wetland, the neighbourhood was founded in the late 1980s and development continues with an environmentally sustainable housing community in the northwest section.
Lifestyle
This family-oriented neighbourhood is made up almost entirely of single-detached homes. The beautiful man-made lake and preserved natural wetland are the central focus points of Oxford, allowing residents to walk among the wildlife and experience relaxing green space just outside their door. The construction of Anthony Henday Drive has made it easier to stay connected to other areas of the city.
The Vibe
Oxford is all about combining a quiet, suburban life with an environmentally-friendly accent. The community is being developed with strict guidelines on sustainability, changing the perception of suburban sprawl by reducing its impact on the environment. New development around the wetland must follow provincial regulations and keep wildlife protection in mind.
Meet the Neighbours
This is a fairly new neighbourhood that attracts many new families. More than a quarter of the residents here are less than 19 years of age, according to the 2011 Stats Canada census. Middle-class families are drawn to the supply of large, single-family homes at affordable prices. It is an ethnically diverse community with almost a quarter of the residents hailing from East/Southeast Asia.
In the Area
There has been lots of business development since 2000 in northwest Edmonton. Oxford Park Centre offers a major grocery store and several restaurants. There is more shopping a few minutes away along 137 Avenue, where major commercial and retail stores are located. Sports and fitness lovers can check out the nearby Castledowns YMCA and Henry Singer Park has several soccer and baseball fields.
11.6 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Anthony Henday Drive has opened up access to much of Edmonton to those living in its northwestern areas. Once it becomes a true ring road, residents will be only minutes away from all corners of the city. Getting downtown can still be a problem, as 127 Street can be slow during rush hour. Edmonton transit does have routes through the community but a majority of residents are drivers.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Oxford is a newer development on the outskirts of Edmonton. If you have to get downtown, traffic can still be a problem and public transportation is slow to get that far away from the city core. However, if you don't need to get downtown for work, Oxford may be perfectly situated for your daily commute.
Dollars & Sense
There has been lots of business development since 2000 in northwest Edmonton. Oxford Park Centre offers a major grocery store and several restaurants. There is more shopping a few minutes away along 137 Avenue, where major commercial and retail stores are located. Sports and fitness lovers can check out the nearby Castledowns YMCA and Henry Singer Park has several soccer and baseball fields.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Oxford Park
This park has a full-sized soccer pitch plus two smaller soccer fields, a baseball diamond, and other green space to play in. The park's northeastern area has a number of trees to offer relaxing shade.
Oxford Lake
This man-made lake is at the heart of the community. Several homes back onto the lake, but there is public access and a paved pathway for a nice summer stroll.
Wetland
This strip of land bisects the community and the surrounding wildlife habitat has been preserved. Residents can enjoy the birds and peaceful setting of this unique part of their community.
Oxford Park Playground
A highlight for the kids, this playground is adjacent to Oxford Park and features basketball hoops, swings, and all the climbing and swinging toys an energetic child could ask for.
Oxford Phase 1
This development aims to build sustainable homes that meet or exceed EnerGuide ratings of 78 or that are LEED Canada certified. An extra matching grant is provided to homes that build a suite for renters.
Oxford Park Centre
This outdoor shopping complex is just across 153 Avenue and offers a grocery store, drug store, and dozens of restaurants – from full menu, sit down eateries to the top fast food outlets.
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