Harwood, a quaint neighbourhood sits atop a ridge, with a view of the Black Creek Valley. It is surrounded by the Black Creek to the north and Lavender Creek to the south and west creating boundaries that lend an air of seclusion to the area. But things have changed – Stock Yards Village, a shopping centre on St. Clair Avenue West has given Harwood a makeover turning it into a sought after urban hotspot for singles, couples and young families. The affordable townhomes encircling Stock Yards Village are perfect for first time homebuyers seeking a city lifestyle close to downtown.
History Of Harwood, Toronto
The Harwood area first appeared in the 1920s when the Harwood Presbyterian Church was established on Weston Road. It was named after Ms. Harwood, who generously donated the land for the church’s construction. The original Harwood Church, located at 274 Weston Road is now used by a denomination. Historically Harwood has been a community mainly made up of working class residents. Many of its inhabitants worked at the Hinds Brothers brickyard or the Overland Car factory along Weston Road. Following World War II residential development in Harwood experienced a growth phase. The construction of homes along St. Clair Avenue West has played a role in rejuvenating this historic Toronto neighbourhood.
Lifestyle
Residents of Harwood have the convenience of strolling to the shopping area, on Weston Road. This bustling retail strip boasts a mix of specialty shops, home improvement stores and dining spots. Along the way you’ll also find leather and shoe factory outlets. Over on St. Clair Avenue West you’ll discover a plethora of handy convenience stores and eateries to explore. The retail scene has been further enriched with the arrival of retailers like Canadian Tire and Home Depot in this vibrant shopping hub. Adding to the charm is Stock Yards Village outdoor mall, an addition to the neighbourhood that showcases a variety of national brands and dining options.
Harwood, Toronto Parks & Facilities
Harwood stands out among Toronto neighbourhoods for having its own special community Town Hall. The Harwood Hall, situated at 85 Cayuga Avenue is a hub of activity, for the Harwood Seniors Group and the York Lions Steel Band as hosting various community gatherings. Across from Harwood Public School lies Harwood Park boasting amenities such as a baseball diamond, a playground for children, a scenic walking trail and gentle slopes perfect for tobogganing adventures. Meanwhile Cayuga Park, found nearby on Cayuga Avenue offers a playground for kids and a pathway leading into the serene Black Creek Valley.
Harwood, Toronto Transit
The bus, on Rockcliffe Avenue and Weston Road takes passengers to Runnymede and Keele stations on the Bloor Danforth subway line. The St. Clair Avenue West bus goes to St. Clair West station, on the Yonge University Spadina subway line.
St. Clair Avenue West is a road that leads travelers towards the city centre. Starting from Black Creek Drive drivers can reach Highway 400 and 401 in ten minutes.
Harwood, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
Harwood Public School can be found on McCormack Street situated to the west of Weston Road and nestled between Rogers Road and St. Clair Avenue. With origins tracing back to 1928 our school boasts a history. Welcoming around 170 students from 25 language backgrounds Harwood is a melting pot of cultures. More than half of our student body communicates in languages other than English. Recently we introduced Grade 4 Extended French to our curriculum. The dedicated educators at Harwood offer an array of experiences to support student growth. Our primary aim at Harwood Public School is to cultivate and uphold an inclusive environment that fosters learning opportunities for all individuals, within the elementary and secondary school community.
Harwood, Toronto Homes
The homes in the Harwood area were constructed gradually over a period starting from the 1900s and continuing until the 1960s. They feature a variety of semi detached styles. Many of the residences on the streets surrounding this neighbourhood are positioned on terrain providing picturesque views of the Black Creek Valley. Recent developments along St. Clair Avenue West consist of townhomes with two levels, brick exteriors, rear parking and attached garages – offering affordable housing options by standards, for the western part of town.