Located in the southeast corner of Red Deer, Laredo offers an exceptional mix of contemporary housing, family-friendly amenities, and natural beauty. As one of the newest developments in the city, Laredo emphasizes thoughtful urban planning with a focus on sustainability, green spaces, and community engagement. Residents appreciate its walkable layout and easy access to parks, schools, and recreational facilities, making Laredo a popular destination for families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Schools in and Near Laredo
Laredo residents benefit from access to several well-regarded schools that cater to children at all stages of their education. The emphasis on high-quality education, extracurricular activities, and community engagement makes these schools key components of the neighborhood’s family-friendly appeal.
Don Campbell Elementary School (K-5): Located just a short distance from Laredo, this school focuses on innovative teaching methods, including the use of technology in the classroom. Students can participate in activities like choir, robotics, and school sports, promoting both academic and social development. Don Campbell also emphasizes community involvement, encouraging students to engage in service projects that foster leadership and empathy.
St. Francis of Assisi Middle School (6-9): This Catholic middle school serves students from Laredo and nearby neighborhoods. It offers a variety of programs, including fine arts, sports academies, and leadership clubs. The school also integrates faith-based learning into its curriculum, promoting a strong sense of service and community responsibility. School teams in basketball, volleyball, and cross-country running are popular among students, contributing to the school's vibrant athletic culture.
Hunting Hills High School (10-12): One of Red Deer’s largest high schools, Hunting Hills offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, dual-credit programs with local colleges, and extensive fine arts options. Students also benefit from a robust athletics program, with football, rugby, and swimming teams competing at a high level. The school encourages students to explore their interests through diverse clubs, such as drama, photography, and environmental awareness groups.
These schools are supported by after-school programs and nearby daycare centers, making Laredo an attractive choice for busy families.
Parks, Pathways, and Outdoor Spaces
Laredo is designed with outdoor recreation in mind, featuring pocket parks, playgrounds, and a network of walking paths that weave through the neighborhood. These green spaces are ideal for families, pet owners, and fitness enthusiasts.
Davenport Place Park: This local park features a modern playground with swings, slides, and climbing structures, as well as shaded picnic tables. Families gather here regularly, and the park is often the setting for community events and meet-ups.
Waskasoo Park Trails: The neighborhood’s pathway system connects seamlessly with the Waskasoo Park trail network, which runs throughout Red Deer. Residents enjoy jogging, biking, or walking along these scenic trails, which pass through forests and along the Red Deer River. In winter, the trails are used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, making them a year-round recreational asset.
Outdoor Rinks and Sports Fields: During winter, local parks transform into outdoor skating rinks, where residents gather for hockey games and leisure skating. Baseball diamonds and soccer fields nearby host sports leagues, encouraging residents to stay active and engaged.
These outdoor amenities contribute to Laredo’s reputation as a healthy, active community, where residents can enjoy both organized sports and informal recreation.
Churches and Places of Worship
Laredo is close to several churches and places of worship that cater to a variety of faiths, reflecting the neighborhood’s inclusive and diverse spirit.
Deer Park Alliance Church: A popular church in southeast Red Deer, Deer Park Alliance offers a variety of programs, including Sunday services, youth groups, Bible studies, and community outreach initiatives. The church also hosts seasonal events like Christmas concerts and summer BBQs for families.
St. Mary’s Catholic Church: Located nearby, St. Mary’s offers mass services, sacramental preparation programs, and outreach initiatives. The church places a strong emphasis on community engagement, hosting food drives and charity events throughout the year.
CrossRoads Church: As one of the largest churches in Red Deer, CrossRoads provides a range of services, including youth ministries, parenting workshops, and volunteer opportunities. The church also serves as a community hub, offering sports programs and family events open to the broader public.
These places of worship provide spiritual support while fostering connections within the neighborhood and the larger Red Deer community.
Modern Housing Options in Laredo
Laredo offers a variety of housing styles, all designed with modern aesthetics and energy efficiency in mind. These homes reflect the latest trends in urban planning while ensuring comfort and functionality.
Single-Family Homes: The neighborhood features contemporary detached homes with open-concept designs, spacious kitchens, and attached garages. These homes are perfect for families, offering large backyards for outdoor play and entertaining. Many properties also include energy-efficient features such as triple-pane windows and solar-ready roofs.
Townhouses and Duplexes: Laredo’s townhomes and duplexes provide a more affordable housing option for young professionals, couples, and downsizers. These units often include private patios or decks and access to shared green spaces.
Rental Options: While the majority of housing in Laredo is ownership-based, townhouse and apartment rentals are available, appealing to those seeking low-maintenance, modern living. These properties feature amenities like underground parking and secure access.
The variety of housing options ensures that Laredo can accommodate residents at different life stages and income levels.
Recreational Facilities and Amenities
Laredo’s location provides convenient access to some of Red Deer’s top recreational facilities, ensuring residents have year-round opportunities for fitness and fun.
Collicutt Centre: This state-of-the-art recreational facility is just minutes away and offers:
A swimming pool with water slides and a lazy river.
A full fitness center with weight rooms and cardio equipment.
Indoor courts for basketball, badminton, and volleyball.
Climbing walls and an indoor track for running and walking.
River Bend Golf and Recreation Area: A short drive from Laredo, this area offers an 18-hole golf course, hiking trails, and picnic areas along the Red Deer River. Golf enthusiasts and nature lovers alike enjoy spending time here.
Community Sports Leagues: Laredo residents participate in local soccer, hockey, and baseball leagues, providing both kids and adults with opportunities to stay active and connected.
These recreational amenities contribute to Laredo’s appeal as a healthy, active community with something for everyone.
Community Spirit and Social Events
Laredo is known for its strong sense of community. Residents come together to organize and participate in a variety of events throughout the year.
Block Parties and BBQs: During the summer months, neighbors gather for outdoor BBQs, live music, and games, fostering friendships and building a strong community spirit.
Seasonal Celebrations: Residents participate in Easter egg hunts, Christmas light tours, and Halloween parades, creating fun traditions for families.
Volunteer Initiatives: The Laredo Community Association organizes neighborhood clean-up days, charity drives, and fundraising events, reinforcing the value of giving back.
These activities help build a welcoming, supportive atmosphere that residents cherish.
Conclusion: A Vibrant Community for All Stages of Life
Laredo stands out as one of Red Deer’s most dynamic and desirable neighborhoods in 2024. With its modern homes, excellent schools, beautiful parks, and active community spirit, Laredo offers residents a balanced lifestyle. Whether you’re raising a family, starting a career, or enjoying retirement, Laredo provides the perfect environment to live, work, and play.