Community Profile: Glendale and Glenbrook

Tucked away just 15 minutes from Calgary's downtown core, the neighbouring communities of Glendale and Glenbrook might be two of the city's best-kept secrets.

"These two communities have really been under the radar," said Pedro Villamar, a REALTOR® with RE/MAX House of Real Estate. "They are full of trees and parks and schools, and although they are neighbouring communities, each has its own vibe."

The two communities are split by 26th Avenue S.W., with Glendale to the north and Glenbrook to the south. The perimeter of the two communities forms a square, bordered by Sarcee Trail to the west, 37th Street to the east, Richmond Road to the south and 17th Avenue to the north.

Chris Welner, vice-president of the Glendale Community Association, purchased a 1950s bungalow in the community in 2001. Since then, he's watched his children grow, as they attended local schools and played in the ample parks brimming with urban forests.

"I think Glenbrook is the next Killarney. Right now, you can purchase the same type of new infill home you would find in Killarney in Glenbrook for $100,000 less." - Pedro Villamar, RE/MAX House of Real Estate

"It's a real family neighbourhood. There is a real sense of community, where neighbours know each other," he said, adding the schools are a big attraction for young families moving into the community.

Like many others in the area, Welner and his wife renovated their home – keeping the bones, while updating and refreshing the interior spaces.

"These lots are pretty special," said Villamar. "Almost all of them are over 50 feet, with some 60 and 65 feet wide."

The neighbouring community of Glenbrook has a slightly different atmosphere, with an urban vibe that is attracting lots of young professionals. The streets are dotted with new infills and duplexes that stand alongside 1960s-style bungalows, creating a varied streetscape.

"The homes in these communities are really undervalued," said Villamar.

"I think Glenbrook is the next Killarney. Right now, you can purchase the same type of new infill home you would find in Killarney in Glenbrook for $100,000 less."

Top Attractions

Turtle Hill is a fun-filled local recreation destination. In the winter months, it's a tobogganing favourite.

Optimist Athletic Park features three sports fields and nine ball diamonds, including one dedicated to Little Leaguers.

In Glendale, new community gardens were recently constructed as part of the community's My Neighbourhood initiative. These specific gardens are also public art – fashioned from stone, they are in the shape of two interlaced turtles.

Fun Fact

Through the City of Calgary's This Is My Neighbourhood program, Glendale now boasts a turtle sculpture on top of its Turtle Hill – a tribute to the legendary animal that once called the friendly toboggan hill home.