Lawrence Heights is going through a revitalization process turning the neighbourhood into a brand new 100 acre planned community. The redevelopment plan includes constructing 4,000 new residential units comprising townhomes and condominiums along with affordable rental options for families. Additionally enhancements are planned for amenities in the area such as parks and a community centre.
History Of Lawrence Heights, Toronto
Lawrence Heights is situated on the Mulholland farm, which was established by Henry Mulholland, a pioneering figure, in North York who settled in the area back in 1814. The descendants of Mulholland resided on the family farm until the 1940s when it was eventually sold to property developers.
During the 1950s Lawrence Heights underwent a transformation from agricultural land to becoming one of Toronto’s prominent public housing developments. The construction and design of this neighbourhood were overseen by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
According to John Sewells book “The Shape of the City ” Lawrence Heights was initially planned to feature apartment towers. However Jack Brown, a government official and former World War II pilot conducted a survey over the project site. Realized that due to its proximity to Downsview Airport high rise buildings could not be built in this development. Consequently the revised plan included row houses and low rise structures that now define the neighbourhood as we know it today.
Lifestyle
Residents of Lawrence Heights have the convenience of strolling to Lawrence Square, a hub that houses both chains and cozy local shops along with medical and professional services. The merchants at Lawrence Square are actively involved in a program aimed at educating the youth in Lawrence Heights, which is generously supported by the Lawrence Heights Area Alliance. Additionally Lawrence Square annually hosts the Lawrence Heights Multi Cultural Fair.
Another shopping destination in the area is Lawrence Plaza, located at the intersection of Bathurst Street and Lawrence Avenue in the north west quadrant. This plaza boasts a variety of discount and outlet stores that draw in shoppers, from parts of the city.
Lawrence Heights, Toronto Parks & Facilities
The Lawrence Heights Community Centre located at 5 Replin Road offers a range of programs, for all ages, including art and dance classes for children, martial arts, basketball, youth programs, girls basketball leagues, leisure activities, dance and music classes for youth seniors clubs and aerobics sessions.
The modern Barbara Frum Public Library at 20 Covington Road features a children’s area collections in multicultural topics, private study spaces, meeting rooms and an auditorium that can accommodate up to 150 people. Adjacent to the library is a Recreation Centre spanning 10,000 feet with versatile meeting areas and a kitchen/craft room.
Lawrence Heights, Toronto Transit
The Lawrence Heights area has public transportation options. Buses on Lawrence and Wilson Avenues connect to stations along the Yonge University Spadina subway line. Additionally the Bathurst Street bus travels south to reach the Bathurst station on the Bloor Danforth subway line.
For drivers it takes twenty five minutes via Bathurst Street to get downtown. The Allen Expressway, which passes through this neighbourhood’s centre, can be easily accessed from Lawrence Avenue West. Serves as a route to Highway 401.
Lawrence Heights, Toronto Elementary, Secondary High Schools
Lawrence Heights Middle School is a stimulating environment, for both students and educators. Our curriculum is well rounded placing an emphasis on subjects like language arts and mathematics while also highlighting areas such as scientific exploration, creative arts like drama and dance music both instrumental and vocal as well as health and physical education. The integration of technology enhances the learning experience for both teachers and students
Students at Lawrence Heights Middle School have opportunities to participate in activities that cater to their interests and passions. These include sports teams, intramural events, music ensembles, leadership roles within the school community, drama or dance groups clubs focused on arts among others. With such a range of options there truly is something for everyone, at our school!
Lawrence Heights, Toronto Homes
Lawrence Heights is home to around six thousand residents who live in owned housing where rents are adjusted based on tenants income. The housing includes row houses with varying numbers of bedrooms ranging from one to four as a few single family five bedroom houses. Additionally two storey apartment buildings in Lawrence Heights are specifically designated for citizens.