Alderwood is a standing neighbourhood that values family life in the part of Toronto. The community has a knit relationship, between homes and schools with a daycare known as “Alderwood Action Alliance” operating within Sir Adam Beck School. To the west lies the picturesque Etobicoke Creek Valley while light industrial areas, home to names like Chrysler Canada Ltd. And Domtar Packaging borders the east.
The residents of Alderwood take pride in the Sir Adam Beck Centre. This versatile facility, located on the grounds of Sir Adam Beck School, at 544 Horner Avenue houses a primary school alongside a public library, community room, daycare centre and fitness room—all seamlessly connected to the recently upgraded Alderwood Pool.
History Of Alderwood, Toronto
Alderwood was originally referred to as New Toronto Park or New Toronto Heights. Sometimes simply, as “the place above the tracks.” It was the residence of the six O’Connor sisters who gained popularity in the 1910s by performing in vaudeville theatres across North America. These sisters often shared the stage with stars like Jimmie Durante, Al Jolson and Sophie Tucker.
The farmlands in Alderwood started to be divided for housing projects in the 1920s. Most of the neighbourhood’s growth took place during World War II. Many of Alderwoods streets are named after the farmers from that area, such as Brown, Evans, Lunness and Horner.
The name Alderwood was officially adopted in 1933 when the local post office opened. A longtime resident of Alderwood named Robert Johnson is credited with coming up with this name. He took inspiration from the word “Etobicoke,” which translates to “the place where alders grow.”
Lifestyle
Sherway Gardens stands out as one of the shopping destinations in Toronto conveniently located a short five minute drive away from this neighbourhood.
Alderwood, Toronto Parks & Facilities
Alderwood Pool, situated at 520 Horner Avenue offers a variety of programs, like Aqua Tot, Aqua Quest and Aqua Fit along with courses such as Bronze Cross and snorkeling. They also provide swims and Junior Lifeguard programs. Across the street Alderwood Public Library offers engaging programs for both children and adults. Additionally the Horner Avenue Seniors Centre at 320 Horner Avenue organizes field trips, barbecues, workshops, information sessions and special events.
Etobicoke Valley Park can be found along the north west border of Alderwood. Serves as the endpoint for the Etobicoke Creek Interpretive Trail. A 2.5 kilometre trail that commences at Marie Curtis Park by Lake Ontario’s shore. This nature trail was established in collaboration with Alderwood Environmentalists and the city. In the heart of this neighbourhood lies Alderwood Memorial Park. An area featuring a children’s playground. Meanwhile Connorvale Park on Valermo Drive boasts a baseball diamond and another playground for kids.
The abundance of parks and recreational facilities in Alderwood makes it easy to have fun outdoors. These parks offer amenities such as playgrounds for children and ice skating rinks. In total there are nine parks in Alderwood housing around 30 recreation facilities altogether. Averaging three facilities, per park.
Alderwood, Toronto Transit
Public transportation services, along Browns Line, Evans Avenue and Horner Avenue provide a link for passengers to the Long Branch Go Transit and TTC station situated on Lakeshore Boulevard.
Drivers can make their way to downtown Toronto in twenty minutes by taking Lakeshore Boulevard and the Gardiner Expressway. Those traveling out of the city can easily access Highway 427 North via Browns Line and Evans Avenue as the Queen Elizabeth Way through the on ramp off Evans Avenue.
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Alderwood boasts 92 transit stops with Long Branch GO being one of its rail stations. The majority of commuters in Alderwood rely on vehicles for transportation, within the city.
Alderwood, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
The neighbourhood boasts elementary and secondary schools, along with specialized programs for both levels. It is served by a total of 7 schools, 4 Catholic schools, 1 private school and 1 alternative/special school. The unique programs available at these schools encompass International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Special Education School, Immersion and Fine Arts offerings.
- Public Schools: 7
- Catholic Schools: 4
- Private Schools: 1
Public
- Norseman Junior Middle School
- Lakeshore Collegiate Institute
- ÉÉ Micheline-Saint-Cyr
- Sir Adam Beck Junior School
- Lanor Junior Middle School
- Cawthra Park SS
- ÉS Toronto Ouest
Catholic
- ÉSC Saint-Frère-André
- St. Josaphat Catholic School
- ÉÉC Sainte-Marguerite-d’Youville
- St. Ambrose Catholic School
Private
- New Haven Learning Centre
- Alternative/Special
Alderwood, Toronto Homes
Alderwood, a residential neighbourhood in Toronto’s southwest, offers a diverse range of homes that reflect its evolution from post-war development to modern suburban living. The area is characterized by well-maintained bungalows, semi-detached houses, and some two-storey homes, many of which were built in the mid-20th century. In recent years, Alderwood has seen newer custom homes and townhouses added to the mix, catering to a variety of homebuyers, from young families to professionals. The neighbourhood’s tree-lined streets and spacious lots contribute to its suburban charm, while its proximity to schools, parks, and shopping centers make it a convenient and appealing community for residents. This blend of traditional and contemporary homes ensures that Alderwood retains its inviting, family-friendly atmosphere while keeping up with modern housing trends.