Introduction
Avenue magazine called Westmount in Edmonton, “a neighbourhood displaying the best of both worlds” and one of the Top 10 in the city. The residential streets are quiet while 124th Street keeps up an urban buzz. Bordered by the busy arteries of 111th avenue, Stony Plain and Groat Road located northwest of downtown, this is a classic older neighbourhood that knows how to roll with urban trends.
Lifestyle
Residents of Westmount were drawn by the neighbourhood’s timeless character and peacefulness. Having 124th Street run right through the neighbourhood draws neighbours together as they sit on sidewalk patios, line up at the bakery and browse boutique shops. It’s a trendy crowd of mostly young professionals and families who love living here.
The Vibe
More than a century in the making, Westmount retains its old-world charm while the business strip on 124th Street has become a hip locale of newer shops and restaurants. It is a walkable neighbourhood with beautiful trees providing a canopy over the streets. In the summer, the 124th Street Grand Market takes over a small section of 108th Avenue on Thursday nights and June features the Nextfest arts festival.
Meet the Neighbours
Since its inception, Westmount has attracted young professionals. According to the 2011 census data from Statistics Canada, a large number of residents here are young (between the ages of 20 and 40) and the majority of them have some post-secondary education. Single detached homes make up the interior of the neighbourhood, but on the outskirts four- and five-storey walkups make up most of the residential units.
In the Area
Being in west-central Edmonton makes Westmount easily accessible to various amenities. In addition to the great shopping, the Royal Alberta Museum is close by and to the northwest, Coronation Park and the Telus World of Science are only minutes away. Westmount Park is right in the middle of the neighbourhood and features an outdoor hockey rink, water spray park, and a playground.
4.2 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
According to Statistics Canada, the majority of residents in Westmount drove to work in 2011. The community is just minutes from downtown and Groat Road gives a quick route across the river to reach the university and south Edmonton. Plenty of bus routes pass through Westmount and with the proposed Valley Line of the LRT going right down Stony Plain Road, residents may soon have access to the LRT system.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
While Westmount has been a leader for infill development, many homes in the area were built prior to 1960. Some homes have been renovated, but there are still many that are showing their age and need work. The businesses along 124th Street can result in traffic woes and parking can overflow into the residential streets, as the popularity of the area brings more people to shop and eat.
Dollars & Sense
With a mix of renters and owners, Westmount has developed tastes for all budgets. From the higher-end boutiques on High Street to the more budget-friendly shops along 124th Street, the area has a lot to offer for a wide range of income levels. Art lovers can go for a stroll along the Gallery Walk and browse through several different galleries for free.