Transcona

SUBURBAN CHARM WITH PLENTY OF AMENITIES

DAWN PETER

The name of Winnipeg’s Transcona neighbourhood is derived from the words Transcontinental and Strathcona, a reflection of the impact the railway and prominent Manitoban, Lord Strathcona, had on the area. The railway’s influence can still be felt on this workingclass suburb, whose borders include Springfield Road to the north, Perimeter Highway to the east, Dugald Road to the south, and Lagimodiere Boulevard to the west.

Initially constructed around the turn of the 20th century between two transcontinental railway lines for the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Canadian National Railway, Transcona has long been a workingclass suburb with strong ties to the railways. Large rail yards and industrial areas once dominated the community, but over the years it has developed new residential areas with charming character homes, apartment buildings and ample green spaces for residents to enjoy.

While Transcona has expanded from its early days and railway roots, those roots have not been forgotten. Large railway-themed murals downtown and a steam locomotive displayed in Kiwanis Park celebrate the area’s history and the Transcona Historical Museum offers an abundance of local images and artifacts to peruse. Pleasant residential communities, established parks and trails, and a light industrial presence continue to attract new residents to this historic area.

Transcona contains four main neighbourhoods: areas north of the CN rail yards, north of the diagonal railway spur, Mission Gardens, and South Transcona.

Active Transcona residents can enjoy three community centres, two indoor arenas, two golf courses, two indoor pools, an outdoor water park and plenty of parks, including Kilcona Park and Transcona Trail. Children attend seven elementary schools, one elementary/middle school, two middle schools, and three high schools available to them, in addition to two Christian schools. Retail shops and services dot Regent Avenue to the west and Kildonan Place shopping centre is also located nearby.

Conveniently located approximately 10 kilometres east of downtown Winnipeg, Transcona offers proximity to the heart of the city while still retaining its suburban charms. For those who wish to take advantage of public transportation, there are many Winnipeg Transit bus routes that service the area.