Introduction
The McCauley neighbourhood in central Edmonton is home to some of the city’s most culturally diverse districts. It is bound on the north by 111th Avenue and Norwood Boulevard, and on the west by 101st Street down to 105th Avenue. Its southeast border cuts diagonally along the LRT tracks that will take you downtown.
Lifestyle
McCauley is at the epitome of Edmonton’s ethnic diversity. The neighbourhood connects Chinatown – the third largest in Canada – with Little Italy. It is also home to Commonwealth Stadium, where the Edmonton Eskimos play, and to Clarke Stadium where the professional soccer club FC Edmonton is based. A recent revitalization plan by the city has helped preserve this vibrant neighbourhood as a multicultural beacon.
The Vibe
McCauley is one of the most walkable neighbourhoods in Edmonton. It is surrounded by amenities and is just minutes from downtown. The colourful Chinatown markets come alive on the weekend while Giovanni Caboto Park is always hosting major events or some pickup soccer games. It is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city, but more recent revitalization has brought newer development to mix with some of the historic buildings.
Meet the Neighbours
McCauley is an older community with nearly two-thirds of the population over 40 years old. Being the home of both Little Italy and Chinatown, McCauley is very diverse. According to census data from 2011, 32 per cent of residents hail from China and Southeast Asia while another 26 per cent are of European descent.
In the Area
With more than 250 businesses in the area, the multicultural heart of Edmonton offers a wide selection of culture, food, and experiences. There is an East Meets West Festival that brings together the tastes and diversity of the neighbourhood. Giovanni Coboto Park hosts many festivals and events, including the Heart of The City Music Fest. Of course McCauley is also just minutes from Churchill Square and downtown shopping.
1.5 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Several major roadways pass through McCauley, making it accessible to all parts of the city. Being just minutes from downtown, many residents can walk to work. The main LRT line borders McCauley and the nearby Metro Line LRT route will further improve public transit in the area. It is also on several major bus routes.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
While McCauley has had a reputation of being a high-crime neighbourhood, the numbers don’t bear it out. According to stats from the Edmonton Police Service released in 2013, property crime had dropped by 69 per cent since 2007. The ongoing revitalization and a more proactive policing philosophy are being credited for this change. Increased development in the area is expected to further reduce crime.
Dollars & Sense
McCauley remains a lower income neighbourhood, with an average household income well below the city average. However, the revival of downtown Edmonton and revitalization in other nearby neighbourhoods has encouraged positive changes in the area. The past few years has seen assessed property values increase at a higher rate than elsewhere in the city.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Commonwealth Rec Centre
Opened in 2013, the Commonwealth Rec Centre has an amazing field house, a full-length gymnasium, a four-lane salt water fitness pool with waterslide, and meeting rooms that provide stunning views of the city.
more infoItalian Centre Shop
This long time staple of Edmonton’s Little Italy neighbourhood has been providing groceries and delicious pastries to Edmontonians since 1959, making it one of the most well known landmarks in central Edmonton.
more infoKing Noodle House
One of many South Asian restaurants along 97th Street in the heart of Chinatown, King Noodle House consistently ranks as one of the best places for pho in the city.
more infoGiovanni Caboto Park
Located in the middle of the McCauley neighbourhood, the park plays host to numerous festivals and events. It has a splash park, fountains, seating areas, and lush trees providing shade in the summer.
more infoChurch Street
The corridor along 96th Street became known as Church Street for the significant amount of religious buildings in the five-block area. You can take a self-guided walk and follow the interpretive plaques.
more infoMcCauley Community Garden
The volunteer-run community garden promotes health and wellbeing through gardening. It currently has 50 participants and is an excellent place to meet and chat with other residents in the area.
more info