Kilkenny is a well-established neighborhood in the northeast part of Edmonton, known for its strong sense of community and family-friendly atmosphere. Named after the city and county of Kilkenny in Ireland, the neighborhood carries a sense of heritage and tradition. Development in Kilkenny began in the 1960s and continued into the 1970s, leading to a mature community with a mix of housing styles and ample amenities. Today, Kilkenny is home to approximately 4,500 residents and around 1,500 homes, making it a vibrant and active neighborhood, according to the Edmonton Municipal Census.
Kilkenny spans a land area of about 1.63 square kilometers. It is bordered by 153 Avenue to the north, 66 Street to the east, 144 Avenue to the south, and 82 Street to the west. The neighborhood is primarily composed of single-detached homes, which make up about 60% of the housing. The remaining 40% includes duplexes, row houses, and low-rise apartments. Kilkenny has a relatively high homeownership rate, with approximately 70% of residents owning their homes and 30% renting.
Kilkenny Park: A central feature of the neighborhood, Kilkenny Park is a large green space that includes sports fields, playgrounds, and a splash park, making it a popular spot for families and community events.
Londonderry Fitness and Leisure Centre: Located within the neighborhood, this facility offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fitness programs, and indoor sports.
Londonderry Mall: Just a short distance from Kilkenny, Londonderry Mall provides a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it convenient for residents to access everyday essentials.
Community League: The Kilkenny Community League is an active organization that hosts events, recreational programs, and community initiatives. The league’s activities can be explored on their official website.
Kilkenny is well-served by several schools within the neighborhood and in surrounding areas, offering a variety of educational options:
Within Kilkenny:
John Barnett School (Public): An elementary school known for its strong academic programs and focus on community involvement.
J. A. Fife School (Public): Another elementary school in the neighborhood, offering a supportive learning environment with a range of extracurricular activities.
Londonderry Junior High School (Public): A junior high school that provides a variety of academic and athletic programs, preparing students for high school and beyond.
M.E. LaZerte High School (Public): A large high school offering diverse academic programs, including advanced placement courses, and a wide range of extracurricular activities.
Adjacent Neighborhoods:
St. Philip Catholic Elementary School (Catholic): Located in the nearby neighborhood of Evansdale, this school offers a faith-based education with a focus on academic excellence and character development (approximately 1.5 km away).
Archbishop O’Leary High School (Catholic): Situated in the nearby neighborhood of Glengarry, this high school offers a comprehensive Catholic education with advanced placement programs and vibrant extracurricular opportunities (approximately 3 km away).
Strong Community Spirit: Kilkenny is known for its close-knit community, with active participation in local events and a strong community league presence.
Family-Friendly Environment: With excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, Kilkenny is ideal for families looking for a supportive and safe neighborhood.
Proximity to Amenities: Easy access to Londonderry Mall, recreational centers, and public transit adds convenience to daily life for Kilkenny residents.
Diverse Housing Options: The neighborhood offers a mix of housing styles, from single-family homes to apartments, catering to different preferences and needs.
Convenient Location: Situated close to major roads like 153 Avenue and 66 Street, Kilkenny offers easy access to other parts of the city, including downtown Edmonton.