SASKATOON — One of the newer neighbourhoods in Saskatoon, Willowgrove is primarily a residential area. The land was annexed between 1975 and 1984, but construction did not start until 2004. It is located within the University Heights Suburban Development Area.
A quick internet search suggests — though not confirmed — the name Willowgrove for the Saskatoon neighbourhood is likely derived from the abundance of willow trees in the area. The name was chosen to reflect the natural landscape and environment of the neighbourhood, with “grove” suggesting a cluster or grouping of trees.
Willowgrove was planned as a neighbourhood centred on a village square. It incorporates features from older neighbourhoods, such as Nutana, with narrow, long lots and back lanes. A system of linear parks connects various parts of the neighbourhood with green spaces and pedestrian linkages. The urban design is said to embrace some concepts of new urbanism as well as the urban village.
A family-friendly neighbourhood, it offers convenient access to amenities and schools, designed with a village square at its heart, presenting a close-knit community and a vibe reminiscent of simpler times.
Willowgrove is often referred to in real estate promotions as the perfect mix of suburban tranquillity and urban accessibility. Homes are situated around parks, walking paths and a central plaza, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists, showcasing the commitment to reducing the carbon footprint.
Like many Saskatoon areas, residents and visitors can enjoy acres of green spaces. Willowgrove’s 10 parks include Willowgrove Square. Residents say the abundant green spaces are one of the highlights of their neighbourhood.
The neighbourhood is located on the eastern edge of the city limits, bounded by McOrmond Drive to the west and Highway 5 to the south. It is served by MP Corey Tochor, MLA Ken Cheveldayoff and city councillor Zach Jeffries in Ward 10.
A former resident, Lind, purchased their home in 2010 so their children could attend the University of Saskatchewan, noting its proximity to campus, good bus connections and nearby amenities. At the time, their house was the fourth on their side of Padget Crescent and they could still see the highway. Within a year, the area was full of houses. The couple also noted there was nowhere near the traffic there is now when they first purchased. They sold the home once the kids finished post-secondary schooling and renting was no longer in their plans.
Willowgrove includes Holy Family Catholic School, a separate elementary school in the Greater Saskatoon Catholic School Division, and Willowgrove School, a public elementary school in the Saskatoon Public School Division. The joint public/separate school building began construction in April 2013 and was completed in March 2015. Centennial Collegiate and St. Joseph High School are easily accessed by transit.
The Willowgrove/University Heights Community Association works to provide activities that promote quality of life and a sense of community for all residents. More information is available at wuhca.ca.
Commercial development is centred around the village square, while most major needs are met by businesses in the neighbouring University Heights Suburban Centre.
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