Introduction
An affluent residential neighbourhood in southeastern Winnipeg, Island Lakes is bordered by Bishop Grandin Boulevard to the north, Lagimodiere Boulevard to the east, the Perimeter Highway to the south, and the Canadian Pacific Railway's Emerson line to the west. This newer subdivision is located within the larger area of Saint Boniface, the heart of Winnipeg's Francophone community.
Lifestyle
Island Lakes is a relatively new community that was constructed by the Novament Development Corporation in 1985, with continued development throughout the 2000s. The southern portion of the area remains largely undeveloped farmland, while extensive residential development dominates in the north. Known for its spacious upscale houses, this area is popular with families and professionals. The plentiful green space and lakeside walkways are well-used by joggers, cyclists, and dog walkers.
The Vibe
Island Lakes balances natural beauty with modern amenities. Large, new homes provide residents with the space, floor plans, and finishings they desire while the area's lakes, paths, and parks create a tranquil environment not always available in newer subdivisions. This safe and family-oriented community reflects Saint Boniface's Francophone heritage with French street names and a substantial bilingual population (18 percent as of the 2006 Statistics Canada census).
Meet the Neighbours
Large homes, plentiful parks, and proximity to major highways make Island Parks an attractive destination for well-off families and professionals. As of the 2006 census, the neighbourhood had more households of four or more people and more married couples with children living at home than the city-wide average. The area's affluence is reflected in the education levels of residents, with almost 34 percent holding a university certificate, diploma, or degree.
In the Area
The northern section is mostly residential, with some businesses located along the main roads. The southern section offers some homes, farmland, and light commercial activity. Island Lakes Community School educates children from Kindergarten to Grade 8, and there are plenty of parks in the area – including Lindsey Wilson Park with its spray pad, basketball court, tennis courts. The popular St. Vital Shopping Centre is just a few minutes away.
11.7 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The neighbourhood's position in the southeast of Winnipeg at the corner of Bishop Grandin and Lagimodiere Boulevards gives residents easy access to major crosstown routes. While most residents take advantage of these major roadways in their own vehicles, a small percentage elect to use public transit as their primary form of transportation (5.8 percent as of the 2006 census). Winnipeg Transit routes 59, 75, and 102 DART service the area.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Island Lakes is an attractive area with attractive homes, but living here comes with a higher price tag than many other Winnipeg neighbourhoods. Renters will have an especially difficult time breaking into the area given the low availability of rental accommodations. While there are shops, restaurants, and services on hand, this quiet suburb is more likely to appeal to families than those looking for a walkable, urban community.
Dollars & Sense
Residents here enjoy a higher income than many Winnipeggers, with almost half of households earning $100,000 or more per year (2006 census). The neighbourhood's average 2006 household income of slightly over $103,000 was $40,000 above the city average. On Island Shore Boulevard, Vamos Tacos serves up authentic Mexican cuisine at reasonable prices and Sobey's grocery store is conveniently located on Sage Creek Boulevard on the area's eastern border.
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Neighbourhood Hotspots
Lindsey Wilson Park
Get outside and have some fun at this large park, located across from the Island Lakes Community School. It features tennis courts, baseball diamonds, basketball courts, a soccer field, and a spray pad.
more infoVamos Tacos
Satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican cuisine at this laid-back local eatery. From tacos to tostadas to enchiladas, there's plenty to satisfy. Free delivery is available on orders of $40 or more.
more infoSouthdale Community Centre
A few minutes' drive away, residents can enjoy the athletic programs, preschool activities, public skating, and bingo at the nearby Southdale Community Centre. Party rooms and indoor ice rink are available for private rental.
more infoSt. Vital Golf Centre
Winnipeg's premiere practice centre for golf features a large grass practice tee area, practice putting green with chipping area, and practice sand bunkers. Golfers can also enjoy the full-service golf shop.
more infoSt. Vital Shopping Centre
With more than 150 stores, nearby St. Vital Centre has something for every shopping appetite. Anchor tenants include Sears, Hudson's Bay, and Walmart. There's a Silver City theatre is onsite for entertainment.
more infoIsland Shore Park
Island Lakes' many children enjoy playing in this fun-filled neighbourhood park. Here, local kids can burn off some energy on the baseball diamond, play structures, swings, sandbox, seesaw, and soccer field.
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