Kirkness is a family-oriented neighborhood located in the northeast part of Edmonton, within the Clareview area. The neighborhood is named after James Kirkness, an early pioneer who settled in the Edmonton area. Development in Kirkness began in the 1970s and continued through the 1980s, with the community now being well-established. Today, Kirkness is home to approximately 3,200 residents and around 1,200 homes (2019 Edmonton Municipal Census). The neighborhood is known for its peaceful residential atmosphere, abundant green spaces, and close proximity to essential amenities, making it a desirable location for families and individuals seeking a suburban lifestyle.
Kirkness spans a land area of about 1.17 square kilometers. It is bordered by 153 Avenue to the north, Victoria Trail to the west, the Clareview LRT line and railway tracks to the south, and 34 Street to the east. The neighborhood primarily consists of single-detached homes, which make up about 60% of the housing. The remaining 40% includes duplexes, row houses, and low-rise apartments. Approximately 70% of Kirkness residents are homeowners, while 30% are renters, according to the 2019 Edmonton Municipal Census.
Kirkness Park: A central green space in the neighborhood, Kirkness Park offers playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths, making it a popular spot for family outings and community events.
Clareview Recreation Centre: Located just a short distance from Kirkness, this modern facility provides residents with access to swimming pools, fitness programs, indoor sports, and a library.
River Valley Access: Kirkness residents benefit from easy access to the nearby North Saskatchewan River Valley, where they can enjoy scenic trails, biking, and nature walks.
Community League: The Hairsine Community League is an active organization that hosts events, recreational programs, and initiatives that foster community spirit and engagement.
Kirkness is well-served by several schools within the neighborhood and in nearby areas, providing a range of educational options:
Kirkness School (Public): An elementary school offering a variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities, focused on creating a supportive learning environment for young students.
John D. Bracco School (Public): A junior high school that serves the broader Clareview area, providing strong academic programs and a variety of extracurricular options.
St. Bonaventure Catholic Elementary School (Catholic): Located in the nearby neighborhood of Belmont, this school offers a faith-based education with a focus on academic excellence and community involvement (approximately 2 km away).
Sifton School (Public): Situated in the adjacent neighborhood of Sifton Park, this elementary school is known for its welcoming environment and diverse student body (approximately 2.5 km away).
Archbishop O’Leary High School (Catholic): Located in the nearby neighborhood of Glengarry, this high school offers a comprehensive Catholic education with a range of academic and extracurricular programs (approximately 5 km away).
Family-Friendly Environment: With excellent schools, parks, and recreational facilities, Kirkness is ideal for families looking for a safe and supportive neighborhood.
Proximity to Amenities: Easy access to shopping, dining, and services in nearby Clareview Town Centre and the Clareview Recreation Centre adds convenience to everyday life.
Natural Surroundings: The neighborhood’s proximity to the North Saskatchewan River Valley and abundant green spaces offers residents ample opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Diverse Housing Options: Kirkness offers a mix of housing styles, from single-family homes to townhouses and apartments, catering to different preferences and needs.
Strong Community Spirit: The active community league and neighborhood events foster a close-knit, welcoming atmosphere.