Introduction
Historically rich Rossdale is a small neighbourhood in the river valley south of downtown Edmonton that dates back to the fur trade. Following the river along its south and east boundaries from the Walterdale Bridge to the Low Level Bridge, the northernmost boundary is MacDonald Drive, which travels down to 99 Avenue and Bellamy Hill Road until the western boundary at 106 Street.
Lifestyle
The neighbourhood is a highly sought-after location given its proximity to downtown, the Alberta Legislature, and the University of Alberta. A large portion of the property in Rossdale is made up of recreational and open green space, which is a great benefit for an otherwise urban community. The city is targeting the underutilized western section for more development with the goal of creating an urban village in the area.
Dollars & Sense
The prime location and small, quiet streets of Rossdale attract the upwardly mobile. Nearly half of the households have incomes of more than $100,000. While real estate prices are above the city average, there are some rental properties available as well. And with proximity to the River Valley, transit, and other amenities, you don’t have to be rich to enjoy living in Rossdale.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
The neighbourhood is sitting on a 1:100 floodplain, which means it has a one percent chance of flooding in any given year. While the risk of a severe flood is there, most of the highest risk areas are now parkland. Development is not banned, but has to be done in a way that mitigates the damage that a rare flood would cause.
1.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Being so close to the U of A, the legislature buildings, and downtown allows residents to walk to where they need to go. For drivers, the main bridges give you quick access to the south. The River Valley Road to Groat Road also offers a quick route north. Residents have access to bus service here, or they can walk up the hill to Jasper Avenue for access to the LRT.
In the Area
Being right in the heart of the city, Rossdale is close to business, culture, and recreational amenities. Louise McKinney Park to the east of Rossdale, along with Hawrelak Park to its west, hosts several festivals during the year. For recreation enthusiasts, Kinsmen Sports Centre, the city-run Victoria and Riverside golf courses, and Victoria Park are all within a few minutes of travel.
Meet the Neighbours
Given Rossdale's small area and the fact that much of it is designated park or recreational space, there are not a lot of neighbours to speak of. According to 2011 census figures, there are only 880 residents in this community and most are university-educated professionals. You won't find too many families here, but Rossdale is home to married couples, childless couples, and singles.
The Vibe
The central Edmonton location calls to those who love an urban lifestyle but still want some peace and quiet. With its own little corner of the river, Rossdale provides some exclusivity – despite the convenient access residents have to 97 Avenue, which cuts through its centre. Most of the homes are far enough away from the major roads, however, that it’s easy to leave the city behind.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
MacDougall Park
Tucked between the trees beside Chateau Lacombe Hotel and Alberta College, MacDougall Park is a grassy oasis in the urban high rises. It's a popular lunch spot for many during the work week.
more infoIrene Parlby Park
Connecting Rossdale to Louise McKinney Park, this stretch of green space runs along the river and is popular with joggers and cyclists. Or you can take a Segway Tour along the trails.
more infoDiamond Park
Diamond Park was home to Edmonton’s first major baseball stadium. The stands are gone but there is still a baseball diamond here. It’s now a park with a beautiful view of the city skyline above.
more infoTELUS Field
Home to several minor league baseball teams, TELUS Field is now home to the Edmonton Prospects baseball team, which plays in the Western Major Baseball League. The 9,200-seat stadium also hosts concerts on occasion.
more infoSun and Moon Visionaries Aboriginal Artisan Society
Located in the Donald Ross School building, a heritage structure that went up in 1913, the society showcases aboriginal artists and culture. The building itself is a spot for architectural history buffs.
more infoOrtona Armoury
The historic two-storey building dates back to the Hudson Bay Company. Now it serves the needs of various artists and arts groups like the Film and Video Art Society of Alberta.
more info