Woodbine History
The historical tapestry of Woodbine Calgary is rich with architectural landmarks and community development milestones that have shaped its identity. Key points include:
- The Denon Residence: Built in 1951 by Ken Denon, this historical landmark epitomizes rustic Western architecture with its use of locally sourced Lodgepole Pine logs and a large fireplace made from local fieldstone. Originally situated on a 40-acre parcel owned by the Dun’s family, it now stands as a testament to the area’s architectural heritage.
- Community Development: Woodbine officially became a residential neighborhood in the southwest quadrant of Calgary, Alberta, Canada in 1980. Bordered by significant roads and Fish Creek Provincial Park, it spans an area of 3.4 km² and boasts an elevation of 1,115 m. The development of Woodbine followed that of Woodlands in 1976, showcasing a preference for 70s and 80s split-level homes, a style that is becoming increasingly rare in newer areas.
- Population and Lifestyle: As of 2011, Woodbine had a population of 9,086 with a median household income of $83,844 in 2000. The community is known for its low crime rates, quality educational institutions including St. Jude Elementary School (Catholic) and Woodbine Elementary public school, and a high percentage of single-family detached homes. This neighborhood’s evolution has been significantly influenced by the preferences of home buyers, the strategic decisions of land developers, and innovations in the real estate market during the 1980s and 1990s.
The Historical Beginnings of Woodbine
Woodbine, established in 1979, emerged as a residential neighborhood located in the southwest quadrant of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Its foundation marked a significant development in Calgary’s urban landscape, catering to the growing need for residential spaces that blend natural beauty with community living.
- Geographical Boundaries:
- North: Anderson Road
- West: Tsuut’ina Trail
- East: 24th Street West
- South: Fish Creek Provincial Park
This strategic location offers residents unparalleled access to natural landscapes while maintaining connectivity to urban conveniences.
- Demographics and Lifestyle:
- 2011 Population: 9,086
- Median Household Income (2000): $83,844
- Low-Income Residents: 7.3%
- Immigrant Population: 21.8%
- Rental Housing: 9.4%
The community’s demographic profile highlights a diverse and vibrant population, with a significant portion of residents contributing to the rich cultural fabric of Woodbine. The area’s low crime rates, particularly in ‘Person’ and ‘Property’ crimes, further accentuate its appeal as a safe and welcoming community.
Woodbine’s establishment and subsequent growth reflect its significance in Calgary’s real estate and community development sectors. Its comprehensive planning and development underscore its role in accommodating Calgary’s expanding population while preserving the natural beauty and recreational opportunities offered by its proximity to Fish Creek Provincial Park.
Community and Lifestyle in Woodbine
In Woodbine, Calgary, the essence of community and lifestyle is vividly reflected through its family-oriented atmosphere, diverse housing options, and robust community engagement. The neighborhood, characterized by its verdant landscapes and proximity to Fish Creek Provincial Park, offers residents a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience.
- Housing and Amenities:
- Majority of residences are single-family detached homes, with a small percentage (9.4%) available for renting, catering to various demographics.
- Essential amenities such as the Woodbine Square shopping center and the Wood Creek Community Center enhance the convenience of daily living, offering a hockey rink, baseball diamonds, and more.
- Educational and Safety Aspects:
- The availability of reputable schools like St. Jude Elementary School and Woodbine Elementary public school within the community underscores its family-friendly appeal.
- Low crime rates, with “Person” crimes and “Property” crimes lower than the city average, further establish Woodbine as a safe and secure environment for families.
- Community Engagement and Outdoor Activities:
- The Woodbine Community Association actively hosts events such as the annual Stampede Breakfast, fostering a strong sense of community.
- Access to outdoor activities is unparalleled, with two entrances to Fish Creek Park, various green spaces, and recreational facilities including pickleball and tennis courts, ensuring a vibrant and active lifestyle.
This seamless integration of natural beauty, comprehensive amenities, educational facilities, and a strong community spirit makes Woodbine an exemplary neighborhood for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle in Calgary.
Landmarks and Attractions
In exploring the landmarks and attractions within Woodbine, Calgary, one finds a blend of educational, recreational, and cultural sites that enrich the community. Here are some highlights:
- Educational Landmarks:
- St. Jude Elementary School (Catholic) and Woodbine Elementary public school serve as cornerstones of education in the neighborhood, providing quality learning environments for young residents.
- Recreational and Cultural Attractions:
- Woodbine Park offers a myriad of activities with tennis courts, basketball courts, and a playground, while the Wood Creek Community Center expands recreational options with a hockey rink, baseball diamonds, and soccer fields.
- The Gator Pub and Crispy Crust Pizza are local favorites, offering community gathering spots for residents to enjoy.
- Nearby Attractions:
- The Calgary Zoo, approximately 10 kilometers away, features over 1,000 animals across various exhibits like Canadian Wilds and Destination Africa.
- Calgary Telus Spark, a science center with interactive exhibits and a planetarium, fosters a love for learning and discovery.
- Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada’s largest living history museum, provides a window into the country’s past through historical exhibits and an antique midway.
These landmarks and attractions, from educational institutions to recreational facilities and cultural sites, contribute to the vibrant and diverse lifestyle of Woodbine, Calgary.
Woodbine’s Evolution: From Past to Present
Woodbine’s evolution from its inception to the present day has been marked by significant growth and development, transforming it into a sought-after community in Calgary. Below are key points highlighting this transformation:
- Geographical Boundaries and Area:
- Initially bordered by Anderson Road, Tsuut’ina Trail, 24th Street West, and Fish Creek Provincial Park, Woodbine’s strategic location has contributed to its appeal.
- Covering an area of 3.4 km² and at an elevation of 1,115 meters, the community offers stunning views and easy access to natural landscapes.
- Population Growth:
- From a population of 9,086 in 2011, projections indicate a significant increase to 12,744 by 2042. This growth underscores the community’s ability to attract residents with its amenities and lifestyle.
- Access to Natural Beauty and Community Inclusion:
- Woodbine boasts two entrances to Fish Creek Park, with Shannon Terrace being a notable access point, enhancing the community’s connection to Calgary’s natural beauty.
- As part of the SOUTHWEST – Calgary Communities, Woodbine is in good company with other prestigious neighborhoods, fostering a sense of community and belonging among its residents.
These elements collectively highlight Woodbine’s evolution into a vibrant and dynamic community, reflecting its capacity to adapt and grow while maintaining its unique charm and appeal.
Woodbine Calgary Today
Today, Woodbine stands as a testament to Calgary’s dynamic growth and diverse community structure, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, safety, and accessibility. Here’s a closer look at what makes Woodbine, Calgary a desirable place to live:
- Community and Diversity:
- Adjacent to Tsuu T’ina Nation, Cedarbrae, Braeside, Woodlands, and Fish Creek Provincial Park, fostering a sense of inclusivity and accessibility to natural landscapes.
- Home to a significant portion of Calgary’s Jewish community, benefiting from a rich cultural infrastructure and organized community life.
- Representation and Governance:
- Falls under the Calgary Heritage federal electoral district, ensuring political representation alongside other notable neighborhoods.
- Governed by Mayor Jyoti Gondek and Councillor Dan McLean, reflecting its importance within the Calgary City Council.
- Demographics, Safety, and Lifestyle:
- A population of 9,131 in 2012, with a median household income of $83,844 and a low-income resident percentage of 7.3%.
- Immigrant residents constitute 21.8%, highlighting its diversity.
- Dominated by single-family detached homes, with 9.4% of housing available for renting.
- Notable for lower crime rates compared to the Calgary average, enhancing its appeal as a safe community.
- Boasts a Livability Score of 70/100, with the cost of living 1% lower than the Calgary average and a high graduation rate of 92%.
This snapshot of Woodbine today illustrates its evolution into a community that balances the preservation of its natural and cultural heritage with the demands of modern urban living.
FAQs
What is the history of Woodbine’s development in Calgary?Woodbine is a neighborhood situated in the southwest part of Calgary, adjacent to the Tsuu T’ina First Nation on the west and Fish Creek Provincial Park to the south. The community was fully developed in the late 1980s and features a diverse array of housing options. This includes luxury homes along the ridge overlooking Fish Creek, as well as more modest bungalows and affordable townhomes.
What factors contribute to the high cost of real estate in Calgary?The real estate market in Calgary has seen a significant increase in home prices, with more properties selling for over $1 million in recent years. This trend is largely attributed to an unprecedented number of people from other provinces moving to Alberta, as reported by Royal LePage.
Is now a favorable time to purchase a home in Calgary?Considering the current high rental prices, scarcity of rental properties, advantageous market conditions, strong economic indicators, and the prospect of long-term investment growth, this period is considered an excellent time to invest in a house in Calgary.
What are the predictions for Calgary’s real estate market in 2024?The Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB) forecasts a 6.5% increase in home prices for the year 2024, indicating a seller’s market. Despite new records in housing starts, Calgary’s real estate market is experiencing difficulties in meeting the high demand, as detailed in CREB’s annual outlook report.
