Summerlea is a vibrant neighbourhood in west Edmonton, renowned for housing the iconic West Edmonton Mall. Its blend of residential charm and commercial convenience makes it a unique place to call home. Established in the 1970s, Summerlea was designed to mirror the characteristics of adjacent neighbourhoods. However, the development and expansion of West Edmonton Mall significantly influenced its growth, reducing the area available for residential development. As of 2012, Summerlea had a population of 1,894 residents living in 1,008 dwellings (Edmonton Census, 2019).
Summerlea spans approximately 1.1 square kilometers, bordered by 170 Street to the east, 178 Street to the west, 95 Avenue to the north, and 87 Avenue to the south. The residential area predominantly features apartment buildings under five stories, accounting for 53% of housing, while single-detached houses make up 31%, and semi-detached homes comprise 6%. Approximately 64% of the residences are owner-occupied.
West Edmonton Mall: Occupying the southern half of Summerlea, this mall is one of the world’s largest, featuring over 800 stores, a water park, amusement attractions, and numerous dining options. One of the largest structures in the world with one of the largest parking lots ever built, West Edmonton Mall takes up about half of the entire neighbourhood!
Summerlea Park: A central green space providing residents with recreational areas and walking paths.
Proximity to Additional Amenities: Nearby shopping centers, such as the Westgate shopping district at 170 Street and 90 Avenue, offer even more retail and dining choices.
Community Engagement: The Summerlea Community League, established in 1984, organizes events and programs fostering a strong sense of community among residents.
There are no schools within the immediate boundaries of Summerlea, but there are several schools in adjacent neighbourhoods.
Belmead School (Belmead): A public elementary school offering diverse educational programs.
St. Benedict Catholic School (Belmead): A Catholic elementary school focusing on faith-based education.
Aldergrove School (Aldergrove): A public elementary school with a strong emphasis on community involvement.
Thorncliffe School (Thorncliff): A public elementary school known for its inclusive learning environment.
Annunciation Catholic School (West Meadowlark Park): A Catholic elementary/junior high school offering comprehensive religious education.
Jasper Place High School(West Meadowlark Park): A public high school renowned for its diverse academic and extracurricular programs.
Hillcrest School (Elmwood): A public junior high school with a variety of academic programs.
H.E. Beriault Catholic Junior High School: A Catholic junior high focusing on holistic education.
Shopping and Entertainment: Immediate access to West Edmonton Mall’s vast array of shops, entertainment venues, and restaurants.
Diverse Housing Options: A mix of housing types suitable for singles, couples, and families.
Green Spaces: Enjoyment of local parks and proximity to additional recreational facilities.
Community Spirit: Active community league promoting neighborhood events and connections.
Convenient Transportation: Well-connected roads and public transit options facilitating easy commutes.
Summerlea’s unique combination of residential tranquility and commercial vibrancy makes it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced urban lifestyle in Edmonton.