Introduction
The name of Winnipeg's Transcona neighbourhood is derived from the words Transcontinental and Strathcona, a reflection of the impact the railway and prominent Manitoban, Lord Strathcona, had on the area. The railway's influence can still be felt on this working-class suburb, whose borders include Springfield Road to the north, Perimeter Highway to the east, Dugald Road to the south, and Lagimodiere Boulevard to the west.
Lifestyle
Initially constructed around the turn of the 20th century between two transcontinental railway lines for the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Canadian National Railway, Transcona has long been a working-class suburb with strong ties to the railways. Large rail yards and industrial areas once dominated the community, but over the years it has developed new residential areas with charming character homes and ample green spaces for residents to enjoy.
The Vibe
While Transcona has expanded from its early days and railway roots, those roots have not been forgotten. Large railway-themed murals downtown and a steam locomotive displayed in Kiwanis Park celebrate the area's history and the Transcona Historical Museum offers an abundance of local images and artifacts to peruse. Pleasant residential communities, established parks and trails, and a light industrial presence continue to attract new residents to this historic area.
Meet the Neighbours
Transcona is defined as a Neighbourhood Cluster by the City of Winnipeg, with a total population of 33,510 as of the Statistics Canada 2011 census. The cluster contains four main neighbourhoods: areas north of the CN rail yards, north of the diagonal railway spur, Mission Gardens, and South Transcona. More than 60 percent of residents are legally married and just over 45 percent hold a post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree.
In the Area
Active Transcona residents can enjoy three community centres, two indoor arenas, two golf courses, two indoor pools, and plenty of parks, including Kilcona Park and Transcona Trail. Children attend seven elementary schools, one elementary/middle school, two middle schools, and three high schools available to them, in addition to two Christian schools. Retail shops and services dot Regent Avenue to the west and Kildonan Place shopping centre is also located nearby.
9.9 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Conveniently located approximately 10 kilometres east of downtown Winnipeg, Transcona offers proximity to the heart of the city while still retaining its suburban charms. For those who wish to take advantage of public transportation (11.9 percent of the populace as of 2011 census findings), the following Winnipeg Transit bus routes service the area: 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 75, 77, 85, 87, 89, 90, 92.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
While often referred to as "Park City" for its many green spaces, Transcona has also earned the less-pleasant moniker of "Trash-cona" for being the worst littering offender following the spring thaw of 2015. The neighbourhood's messiest streets include areas of Lagimodiere Boulevard, Reenders Drive, Grassie Boulevard, Regent Avenue, and Kildare Avenue. However, Team Up to Clean Up volunteers worked quickly to return the streets to their former, cleaner glory.
Dollars & Sense
Traditionally a working-class neighbourhood, Transcona's average household income in 2011 was $74,693, just above the city-wide average of $72,612, but homeowners here also enjoy more affordable home prices ($220,892 versus a Winnipeg-wide average of $257,574). Average rents are also lower and there are a number of affordable big-box shopping opportunities just to the west of the area on Regent Avenue. Family-friendly restaurants like Perkins and Smitty's offer affordable dining options.
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Neighbourhood Hotspots
Dal's Drive Inn, Restaurant and Lounge
Dal's Drive Inn has been serving up tasty Greek cuisine and perfect pizza in Transcona for decades. Locals love the burgers, particularly the Fat Boy burger, served with fresh, crispy fries.
more infoClub Regent Casino and Event Centre
From slot machines to high stakes poker, Club Regent Casino has it all. And you can always bet on high-quality entertainment on the club's mainstage or a well-run banquet in the event centre.
more infoDolce Bake Shop
Custom European pastries, elegant wedding cakes, and indulgent sweet treats tempt sweet-tooth Transconans at the impressive Dolce Bake Shop. Treat yourself at this local, family-owned shop. Open seven days a week.
more infoTranscona Centennial Square
Commemorating the history, pride, and strong community spirit of Transcona, the Transcona Centennial Square in the heart of Transcona is an urban park offering year-round activities for residents. Stage and fountain area available for rent.
more infoTranscona Trail
A multi-use walking, running, and cycling path, points of interest on the Transcona Trail include Rotary Tall Grass Nature Park, Train Park, an off-leash dog area, Transcona Community Bioreserve, Cordite Trail, and George Olive Park.
more infoTranscona Historical Museum
With a mission to "preserve and promote the community spirit of Transcona, through our history and stories for the benefit of all," this museum features many local artifacts of interest to residents and visitors alike.
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