Alexandra Park is uniquely structured with two communities seamlessly woven together throughout its streets.The original area comprises owned homes while the recent parts belong to the Atkinson Housing Cooperative. Currently undergoing a 15 year revitalization project to transform into a diverse neighbourhood featuring mixed income housing and varied commercial spaces across two phases.
This urban area is nicely situated adjacent to the Kensington Market and Chinatown, on Spadina and Queen West.
History Of Alexandra Park, Toronto
Alexandra Park has a history tied closely with the legacy of Sir Casimir Gzwoski. A Polish engineer who made his way over Toronto in 1841 and left his mark through the construction of the Grand Trunk Railway stretching from Toronto all the way up till Sarnia.
The Gzowski family home was located at the intersection of Bathurst and Dundas Streets, in the corner of Toronto city. A place fondly referred to as “The Hall”. In 1904 the municipal authorities of Toronto acquired “The Hall” and its surroundings with the intention of transforming it into a space, for public enjoyment; thus Alexandra Park was christened in honor of Queen Alexandra.
Many new Canadian residents have called the Alexandra Park neighbourhood their abode over the years. Back, in the 1920s and 30s waves of Ukrainian migrants made this area their settlement of choice. Shortly after them came newcomers from Germany, Italy, Greece, Portugal and Hungary.
The Alexandra Park Housing Cooperative plans were authorized by the Toronto City council in 1964 which resulted in the expropriation of sixteen acres of land and the demolition of houses in Alexandra Park area back then. Today sees a wave of change in Alexandra Park as it undergoes efforts that involve the replacement or renovation of numerous rent subsidized units and the construction of 1 540 new market condominiums.
Lifestyle
Residents of Alexandra Park can easily walk to Kensington Market situated to the west of Spadina and north of Dundas Street known as Toronto’s open air food market.
Alexandra Park residents often frequent Toronto’s downtown Chinatown area located at the junction of Dundas Street West and Spedina Avenue, for their shopping needs. Chinatown offers a variety of goods from the Far East along with fresh produce stands and numerous Chinese eateries.
Alexandra Park, Toronto Parks & Facilities
Alexandra Park serves as the area, in this area with amenities like an outdoor pool and wading pool alongside an artificial ice rink and tennis courts for residents to enjoy outdoor activities. Beside the park stands the Scadding Court Community Centre where locals can access facilities such as a gymnasium and indoor pool as well as a weight room and meeting spaces for various events. Adjacent to the community centre lies the Charles R.Sanderson Public Library that provides programs catering to adults, as children and preschoolers foster a culture of learning within the neighbourhood.
Alexandra Park, Toronto Transit
There is a streetcar service running along the streets surrounding this neighbourhood connecting passengers to the subway stations in Toronto. A stone’s throw away, from here are the Gardiner Expressway and Lake Shore Boulevard. Perfect for getting in and out of the city in a flash!
For details, about bus and subway schedules in Alexandra Park and, throughout Toronto please visit the TTC website.
Alexandra Park, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
Alexandra Park is a multicultural area in Toronto renowned for its sense of community and convenient location near the city centre It provides locals with opportunities to enroll in a range of educational establishments such as public institutions as well as Catholic and private schools that serve students from elementary and secondary high school levels.
- Public Schools: 4
- Catholic Schools: 4
- Private Schools: 3
Public Schools
- Ossington/Old Orchard Junior Public School
- Ryerson Community School
- Central Technical School
- Jarvis Collegiate Institute
Catholic Schools
- St. Paul Catholic School
- St. Joseph’s College School
- Monsignor Fraser College
Private Schools
- The York School
- Branksome Hall
- Royal St. George’s College
The prime location of Alexandra Park and its close proximity to a variety of institutions attract families looking for schooling options and a lively community atmosphere.The neighbourhood boasts a selection of schools that cater to requirements and preferences.
Alexandra Park, Toronto Homes
The charming Victorian houses, in Alexandra Park originated in the century while quaint semi detached dwellings and bungalows from the early 20th century can also be found scattered throughout the area. The more modern townhouses were constructed during the 1960’s and are a key feature of the tight knit community, at Alexandra Park Housing Cooperative.
Alexandra Park is going through changes as it undergoes a plan that involves upgrading or renovating affordable housing units and building 1 540 new market rate condominiums.