Page 50 - 06_July-Aug-2025

WHAT MAKES A GOOD
NEIGHBOURHOOD
A GREAT NEIGHBOURHOOD?
We asked — you answered. Here’s what Edify readers said matters
most in a community by Omar Mouallem
The Vibes & Values
You Want
Culturally Inclusive
Friendly Neighbours
Convenience
(nearby businesses)
Walkable Streets
Safe Streets
Most Desired Aesthetics
of a Neighbourhood
Top 3 Most Desired
Public Amenities
MATURE
TREES
Park
Library
CHARACTER
HOMES
PUBLIC
ART
Clinic/
Rec Centre
(tie)
Is Parking Overblown?
Only 8% of readers valued
convenient parking, yet parking-
related disputes dominated civic
discussion this year — from protests
against mobile-only meters and new
residential fees to neighbourhood
revolts over bike lanes. Meanwhile, you
told us that you value walkability, safety
and green spaces much more. So why
are we fighting over curbs instead of
community?
40
35
30
25
20
The Qualities of a Good
Neighbour
Approachable 37.5%
Considerate 25%
Trustworthy 14%
Respectful of Boundaries 10.9%
Community-oriented 6.2%
Inclusive and Open-minded 4.7%
Watchful Eye 1.6%
15
10
5
0
Third Spaces Matter
A “third space” is where people gather out-
side home and work. These spaces are vital
to any thriving, people-centred community,
and our readers clearly cherish them. When
we asked about your third space, the top
three most cited places were a library, coffee
shop and, yes, West Edmonton Mall.
50 EDify. JULY•AUGUST.25