Top Reasons To Live in Oakridge

The Allure of Oakridge Calgary

Oakridge Calgary is renowned for its vibrant community spirit, largely fostered by the Oakridge Community Association (OCA). This not-for-profit organization is pivotal in providing both recreational and social settings that enhance community life. Here’s how the OCA contributes to the thriving neighborhood spirit:

• Community Events and Programs: The OCA organizes a variety of events that bring residents together, such as the 90s Neon Jellybean Dance, Oakfest 2024, and the Charity Casino Fundraiser. These events not only provide entertainment but also strengthen community bonds.

• Recreational Facilities: Residents of Oakridge enjoy free amenities like skating and Sticks and Pucks/Rings sessions at the Oakridge Community Centre, promoting active lifestyles and frequent social interactions among neighbors.

• Volunteer and Civic Engagement: The association is driven by a volunteer board of directors, supported by full-time and part-time staff and numerous event volunteers. This structure encourages local involvement and provides residents with opportunities to contribute to community development.

• Special Interest Committees: With committees like Oh My Oakridge (OMO) and Oakridge Community Gardens (OCG), the OCA focuses on specific community improvements such as updating greenspaces and promoting environmental stewardship through community-driven horticulture.

These elements collectively enhance the neighborhood spirit, making Oakridge Calgary a desirable place for those seeking a connected and supportive community environment.

Accessibility and Convenient Location

Oakridge Calgary boasts a strategic location that enhances its appeal to residents who value both urban conveniences and natural beauty. Here’s why the accessibility and location of Oakridge make it a top choice:

• Central Location: Situated at 9504 Oakfield Drive SW, Oakridge is on the southwest edge of Calgary, directly south of the Glenmore Reservoir. This prime location offers scenic views and direct access to outdoor activities like hiking and biking on the reservoir’s trails.

• Convenient Transit Options: The community is well-connected by public transportation, with several bus routes linking it to Calgary’s downtown and nearby LRT stations. This network makes commuting simple and efficient, appealing to professionals working in the city center.

• Proximity to Amenities: Residents enjoy close proximity to essential amenities, including local shops, schools, and Southcentre Mall, accessible via Anderson Road. The nearby Taza development on Tsuut’ina Trail further enriches the area with new shopping and dining options, enhancing the convenience for Oakridge residents.

This combination of natural settings, essential amenities, and robust transit options underscores why Oakridge is not just a place to live, but a lifestyle choice for many.

Family-Friendly Environment with Top-Tier Schools

Oakridge Calgary is a beacon for families seeking a nurturing environment complemented by exceptional educational facilities. Here’s a look at what makes this area perfect for family living:

• Diverse Educational Options: The neighborhood boasts a variety of schools, such as Cedarbrae Elementary and Louis Riel Elementary and Junior High School, known for its specialized science program. These institutions cater to different educational needs, ensuring high-quality learning experiences for all age groups.

• Comprehensive Child Care Programs: The Oakridge Community Association offers a well-established before and after school program. Celebrating over 25 years, this initiative provides dependable and enriching care, making the daily logistics smoother for busy parents.

• Family-Centric Neighborhoods: Areas like Cougar Ridge and Royal Oak not only offer affordable living but are also celebrated for their safety, community feel, and access to green spaces. These neighborhoods are ideal for families looking to grow roots in a supportive environment.

This combination of educational excellence and family-friendly amenities makes Oakridge Calgary a top choice for those prioritizing a balanced and enriched family life.

Property Value and Neighborhood Aesthetics

Oakridge Calgary not only offers a vibrant community and excellent location but also boasts impressive property values and neighborhood aesthetics that make it a sought-after area. Here’s a closer look at the real estate landscape and the visual charm of Oakridge:

• Property Values: Oakridge presents a range of property options, from single-family homes to high-rise condos. The median list price for single-family homes is currently $727,890, showing a significant monthly increase of 13.09%. Condos are also available, with prices ranging from $185,000 to $700,000, catering to diverse budgets and preferences.

• Neighborhood Aesthetics: The community is characterized by its mature trees and picturesque landscapes, contributing to its overall aesthetic appeal. Residents enjoy access to abundant parks and open spaces, including the stunning South Glenmore Park and the Weaselhead Natural Area, which are perfect for outdoor activities and relaxation.

• Comparison with Nearby Neighborhoods: When compared to nearby areas, Oakridge holds a competitive edge. For instance, properties in Citadel range from condos at $285,000 to single-family homes up to $675,000, while Edgemont offers condos up to $500,000 and homes up to $1.4 million. This makes Oakridge an attractive option for those seeking both value and quality of life in Calgary’s vibrant real estate market.

These factors contribute to Oakridge’s allure, making it not just a place to live, but a wise investment and a beautiful home environment.

Vibrant Community and Quality of Life

Oakridge Calgary offers a vibrant lifestyle with an array of community programs and convenient amenities that enhance the quality of life for its residents. Here are some key aspects:

• Community Programs:

  • Bingo and Sports: Engage in fun and competitive bingo sessions or participate in various sports activities, fostering community interaction and physical health.

  • Fitness and Dance Classes: Available for all ages, these classes help maintain an active lifestyle and provide a great way to meet neighbors.

  • Child Care Services: Reliable child care programs support busy parents, ensuring safety and fun learning experiences for children.

• Local Amenities:

  • Grocery Stores and Restaurants: Everything you need is right within the neighborhood, from fresh produce at local grocery stores to diverse dining options.

  • Medical Facilities: Access to high-quality medical services ensures peace of mind, knowing health care needs are easily met without long travel distances.

These features collectively contribute to making Oakridge not just a place to live, but a thriving community with a high quality of life.

Improved Connectivity and Future Developments

Oakridge Calgary is on the brink of a transformative development with the Oakridge Co-op redevelopment project. This ambitious initiative is set to enhance the area’s connectivity and introduce future developments that promise to elevate the local lifestyle and economic landscape. Here’s an insight into what’s planned:

1. Comprehensive Development Phases:

   • Phase 1: Construction of a new medical and commercial building.

   • Phase 2: Renovation for a new, larger Co-op grocery store.

   • Phase 3: Replacement of the current Co-op store with residential units, a parkade, and additional commercial spaces.

   • Phase 4: Further expansion with another residential building and more commercial spaces.

2. Key Features of the Project:

   • Residential and Commercial Spaces: The project will introduce 249 residential units and roughly 154,000 square feet of commercial space, including a new 53,000 square feet Co-op grocery store.

   • Green Initiatives: Plans include a Co-Gen system, green rooftops, and a community greenspace, emphasizing sustainability.

   • Parking and Accessibility: Provision of 686 parking stalls to accommodate both residents and customers, ensuring convenience.

3. Future Connectivity and Traffic Management:

   • The development’s impact on local traffic is being carefully assessed, with considerations for the additional volume and the integration of current transportation projects like the Ring Road. This ensures that the infrastructure will support both the present needs and future growth.

This redevelopment not only promises to modernize the Oakridge area but also aims to enhance the community’s overall quality of life with its thoughtful and phased approach to urban development.