Beltline has eleven decades of history and buildings from every one of them still exist today. The name originated from the name of Route No. 5, the "Belt line" of the Calgary Municipal Railway. The trolley encircled what is now Beltline and connected to downtown. Beltline is made up of four distinct neighbourhoods which are located immediately adjacent to the downtown core.
East Victoria
East Victoria is located between the Elbow River and 1st street se. East Victoria includes Stampede Park. This redeveloping neighbourhood is part of the Rivers revitalization area. It's taking on hip, new elements to complement the historic warehouse district.
Victoria Crossing
Victoria Crossing is named after the business association that kick started its revitalization. It extends from 1st Street SE to 4 Street SW and contains Calgary's first park.
Connaught Centre
Connaught Centre grew up around the early twentieth century estate homes. The restored Lougheed house remains at the centre of the neighbourhood with an established residential area to the south and newer commercial buildings to the north.
West Connaught
West Connaught is the highest density residential neighbourhood. Largely built in the boom of the seventies, the neighbourhood is becoming an impressive collection of urban homes, fashion, art and design. Uptown 17 started the trend.
About 18,000 people now live in Beltline. According the the 2007 City of Calgary census, Beltline gained 1100 new residents, mostly young urban employees.