Beltline Map

Nestled in the very heart of Calgary, Alberta, Beltline stands as a testament to urban living, blending rich history and modern vibrancy. This central district, situated immediately south of Calgary’s downtown core, extends its boundaries from the south of 9th Avenue and the Canadian Pacific Railway tracks, reaching out to 17th Avenue in the south, 14th Street West in the west, and the Elbow River in the east.

Beltline is renowned for its high population density and urban character, with a skyline marked by residential buildings, condominiums, and offices. It has etched its identity as Calgary’s go-to hub for eclectic nightlife, diverse restaurants, and a pulsating urban culture.

The district’s story begins with the establishment of Connaught in 1905, followed by the birth of Victoria Park in 1914. These two inner-city neighbourhoods would eventually merge under the Beltline name in 2003, creating the dynamic community we know today. Beltline’s moniker is a nod to an early 20th-century streetcar route, encapsulating a piece of Calgary’s transportation history.

As of 2018, Beltline is home to a bustling population of 24,887, making it one of the most densely populated areas in Calgary. The Calgary Fire Department’s Fire Station No. 2 at 1010 10 Avenue S.W ensures the safety and well-being of this vibrant community.

Beltline is divided into four distinct districts: West Connaught, Connaught Centre, Victoria Park, and East Victoria Park. Each of these areas contributes to the diverse tapestry of Beltline, hosting a variety of informal city districts, such as Midtown, the Design District, the Uptown 17th BRZ, and a portion of the Rivers District.

The lively 17th Avenue marks the southern edge of Beltline, bustling with bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. During the Calgary Stampede, the area transforms, drawing crowds from across the city and beyond. Notably, the avenue earned its “Red Mile” nickname during the Calgary Flames’ playoff run in 2004, capturing the spirit and passion of the city’s hockey fans.

Beltline’s educational landscape features two public schools, Connaught Community School and Victoria Community School, alongside Western Canada High School located on its 17th Avenue boundary. The neighbourhood also remains accessible to St. Mary’s High School, catering to Roman Catholic high school students in the vicinity.

Despite its urban allure, Beltline is not without its social challenges. The community sees a mix of economic groups, with ongoing revitalization attracting middle and upper-income residents. Nonetheless, low-income residents still constitute a significant portion of the population. The Mustard Seed Calgary, located at 102 11 Ave SE, plays a crucial role in community support.

In terms of future growth and development, Beltline is at the forefront of Calgary’s urban planning initiatives. The ambitious Beltline Area Redevelopment Plan, approved by the Calgary City Council in 2006, envisions a future of increased residential density and mixed-use development, aiming to accommodate up to 40,000 residents by 2035.

Beltline’s evolution continues as it balances its historic roots with a bold vision for the future. It stands as a microcosm of Calgary’s growth, vibrancy, and community spirit, embodying the essence of urban living in Alberta’s largest city.