Introduction
Tamarack is one of the neighbourhoods that make up The Meadows district in southeast Edmonton. This neighbourhood is located south of Whitemud Drive between 17th Street and the CN Rail tracks, just west of Anthony Henday Drive. While it extends to 23rd Avenue to the south, most of the residential development has occurred in the northern section of the community.
Lifestyle
Though it may seem like a typical suburban Edmonton neighbourhood, Tamarack has some great attributes that set it apart from many other areas. The Anthony Henday makes it easy to travel around the city and there are many parks and recreational opportunities in the nearby neighbourhoods that make up The Meadows. People enjoy the family-friendly environment Tamarack has to offer.
The Vibe
This child-friendly new development on the outskirts of the city attracts young families looking for affordable-but-stylish homes. Big chain restaurants and shopping are close by, and there are lots of programs to keep the children entertained. As the southeast area grows, expect to see more commercial development as well, which will create more options for residents.
Meet the Neighbours
Tamarack is an ethnically diverse new suburb with residents from South and East Asia, the Caribbean, African and European nations. Children make up nearly a third of the population with a whopping 21 per cent under the age of nine (according to 2011 Canadian census figures). It is a young, upwardly mobile group of people that are attracted to the amenities and benefits offered by this new development.
In the Area
Shopping and recreational opportunities abound in The Meadows. Major retail and big-box stores have appeared at the same time as new housing developments. RioCan Meadows is off 17th Street, offering major banks, restaurants, and grocery stores. For residents looking to stay fit, the Meadows Recreational Centre opened in 2014 and offers hockey, an indoor track, workout facilities, and a swimming pool.
17.2 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Most residents in Tamarack drive to work, but with a transit centre located along 17th Street and Tamarack Way, public transit is a lot more palatable for travellers. The preferred transportation will always be cars, though the proximity to Whitemud Drive and Anthony Henday Drive makes it easy to get to any part of the city within minutes.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The eastern edge of Tamarack is bordered by the CN Train line, which runs the length of the community. It has been a source of complaints for residents as developers built residential properties quite close to the busy rail. A berm and fence meant to dampen the sound and vibrations haven’t met expectations, forcing some residents to move. However, this affects only a few of the homes in the area.
Dollars & Sense
The main demographic in Tamarack is young families and this is reflected in the area's shopping and amenities. Family-style restaurants and large, big-box grocery and home furnishing stores fill much of the major shopping areas. The newly opened recreation centre in The Meadows makes it easy to find fun programs for all ages. The neighbourhood is an affordable option for young couples looking for starter homes.
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Neighbourhood Hotspots
Tamarack Park
Adjacent to A. Blair McPherson School, this vast green space is home to hundreds of soccer and baseball games. In addition to sports fields, the park has several areas to relax and enjoy a picnic.
Dream Centre
The Tamarack Dream Centre will be a three-phase commercial development along 17th Street and Tamarack Way. It will be anchored by Walmart and other big-box retailers, making it easier for residents to shop.
more infoMeadows Community Rec Centre
The city’s newest health and fitness centre opened recently in November 2014. It features two full-sized hockey rinks, a 10-lane fitness pool, indoor track, a gymnasium, and an indoor playground.
more infoMeadows Library
This library location serves the developing residential district of The Meadows. It’s integrated into the recreation centre and features an outdoor culture bowl and reading garden. There are reading areas for children, teens, and adults.
more infoMill Creek Nursery
The nursery operates from a 100-year-old family farm and offers a wide range of potted trees, shrubs, and perennials. There is a beautiful selection of home and garden decorations and a coffee bar.
more infoBonnie Doon Flowers Garden Centre
Helpful staff and a variety of high-quality plants and flowers highlight this locally owned greenhouse. Located on 23rd Avenue, the garden centre has an amazing selection of bedding plants, annuals, and perennials.
more info